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Environmental Protection Engineer information

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$38.5K

$91.2K

$133K

How much do environmental protection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental protection engineer in the United States is $91,191.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $108,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of an engineer in environmental protection?

An environmental protection engineer designs and implements solutions to reduce pollution, manage waste, and protect natural resources. They analyze environmental data, develop regulations, and use tools like GIS and modeling software to ensure compliance and sustainability. Certification and knowledge of environmental laws are often required for this role.

Is there a high demand for environmental engineers?

Environmental protection engineers are in high demand due to increasing environmental regulations and the need for sustainable practices. Job growth is expected to be faster than average, with opportunities in government agencies, consulting firms, and industry sectors focused on pollution control, waste management, and renewable energy projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Environmental Protection Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Protection Engineer, you need a strong background in environmental engineering principles, regulatory compliance, and project management, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in environmental or civil engineering. Familiarity with environmental modeling software, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly required. Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and navigate complex environmental challenges. These competencies ensure that environmental projects are designed and executed efficiently, safely, and in line with regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Environmental Protection Engineer vs Environmental Engineer?

AspectEnvironmental Protection EngineerEnvironmental Engineer
CertificationsPE license, environmental certificationsPE license, environmental certifications
Work EnvironmentRegulatory agencies, consulting firms, industrial sitesConsulting firms, government agencies, industrial projects
Primary FocusEnsuring compliance with environmental laws, pollution controlDesigning sustainable systems, environmental impact assessments

Environmental Protection Engineers primarily focus on ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and controlling pollution, often working with regulatory agencies or industrial sites. Environmental Engineers have a broader scope, including designing sustainable systems and conducting impact assessments. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in industry settings, but their core responsibilities differ slightly.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior-level environmental protection engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or managerial roles. Such positions often require advanced degrees, leadership responsibilities, and expertise in areas like environmental compliance, project management, or consulting.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior-level engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain software engineering roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes certifications or advanced degrees. Compensation varies by industry, location, and company size.

What types of projects do Environmental Protection Engineers typically work on, and how do they collaborate with other professionals?

Environmental Protection Engineers are often involved in projects such as designing pollution control systems, developing waste treatment solutions, and assessing environmental impact for new developments. They regularly collaborate with scientists, regulatory agencies, and construction teams to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to integrate sustainable practices. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as these engineers must translate technical findings into actionable plans and coordinate with multiple stakeholders throughout a project's lifecycle.

What does an Environmental Protection Engineer do?

An Environmental Protection Engineer is responsible for developing solutions to environmental problems by applying principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry. They work to improve recycling, waste disposal, public health, and water and air pollution control. Their duties may include designing systems to reduce pollution, conducting environmental impact assessments, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. These engineers often collaborate with government agencies, private companies, and communities to ensure environmental sustainability and protect public health.
What cities are hiring for Environmental Protection Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Environmental Protection Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Environmental Protection Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Environmental Protection Engineer jobs include:
Environmental Protection Engineer jobs near you
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ENGINEER I (UMP)

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ENGINEER I (UMP)

State of Illinois

Marion, IL • On-site

$6K - $7K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 56379
Opening Date: 05/26/2026
Closing Date: 06/09/2026
Agency: Environmental Protection Agency
Class Title: ENV PROT ENGINEER I (13791) 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary (Effective 7/1/26) $6,540 a month; Full Range $6,540 - $7,480 a month
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Williamson
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: RC063 Professional Employees, Educators,Juvenile Justice School Counselors and Special Education Resources Coordinators,and Physicians AFSCME
Merit Comp Code:  

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

***Please upload a copy of your official/unofficial transcripts for all degrees earned, and a copy of any applicable professional licenses you possess to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application. ***

Note: The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency must verify and have proof of higher education and coursework (if applicable) for any degree earned before any offer can be extended.

 

Sponsorship for Employment

The State of Illinois does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status), nor is the State able to provide extensions of optional practical training (OPT) under the STEM-designated degree program for F-1 students.  To be considered for permanent employment with the State of Illinois, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Job Overview

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Bureau of Water (BOW), Public Water Supplies, Field Operations Section, Southern Region - Marion Regional Office is seeking to hire an Environmental Protection Engineer 1.  This position performs a variety of closely supervised functions that are designed to provide a basic introduction to, and training in the explicit engineering programs for the Marion Regional Office. The ideal candidate will assist a higher-level engineer in the investigation of the design, location, construction, maintenance, or inspection of subsystems of public and private facilities relating to Public Water Supplies.

The benefits of working at the EPA include a 37 hour work week, a generous salary and benefits package (paid time off for vacation, sick or personal leave, holidays) pension and other retirement benefits, tuition reimbursement, and insurance eligibility on day one (medical, dental, vision, and life). We invite all qualified candidates to apply.

Essential Functions
  • Assists higher level staff to gain knowledge and training in conducting routine engineering evaluations of public
    water supplies for the Southern Region, Marion Regional Office, Field Operations Section (FOS), Division of Public
    Water Supplies, Bureau of Water (BOW);
  • Assists in investigating/evaluating/monitoring routine citizen complaints/inquiries regarding public water supplies;
  • Assists in responding to public water supply emergencies;
  • Gains knowledge and receives training in providing routine assistance/guidance to officials/consultants in
    resolving routine operational issues and improving water quality;
  • Gains knowledge and receives training in collaborating with Region FOS Manager and/or Working Supervisor,
    CAS, and Agency Division of Legal Counsel (DLC) in evaluation of enforcement priorities;
  • Attends and observes meetings with local officials and site representatives;
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated
    above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four years of college with a bachelor's
    degree in an engineering science. Typically, the subject matter would involve the type of coursework associated with
    environmental (sanitary, hydraulic, hydrology, and air pollution specialties), civil (sanitary, hydraulic, and hydrology
    specialties), general, industrial, mechanical, chemical, public health, electronic, acoustical, or aeronautical engineering or
    engineering mechanics or a closely related engineering specialty.   
  • Requires no previous experience.   
  • This class is included as an Upward Mobility Program credential title.
Preferred Qualifications (In Order of Significance)
  • Prefers the ability to establish and maintain oral communication and working relationships with municipal officials, facility
    operators and owners, plant managers, engineers, or their representatives.
  • Prefers the ability to prepare clear and concise written reports and correspondence, good organizational skills, and
    decision-making abilities.
  • Prefers a knowledge of public water treatment facilities, and related techniques, procedures, and processes.
  • Prefers experience applying or complying with the rules governing the sanitary survey process of public water supplies
    consistent with the Safe Drinking Water Act (40 CFR 16) and State regulations.
Conditions of Employment
  • As required by OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120, this position will be required to take (within 90 days of employment) and maintain
    working knowledge (8-hour annual refresher) and/or certification to ensure position is up to date with laws, rules, and
    regulations to maintain compliance with IL Department of Labor Occupational Safety Regulations: 24-hour OSHA
    HAZWOPER training.
  • Requires a current and valid driver's license.
  • Requires the ability to travel.
  • Requires the ability to pass a name-based background check.
  • Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be requested or required/mandated to work overtime including
    scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime. This requires the ability to work evenings and weekends.
  • Requires the ability to use an Agency issued cell phone.

The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job
description.

Work Hours: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Monday - Friday 1 hr lunch
Headquarter Location: 2309 W Main St, Marion, Illinois, 62959
Work County: Williamson

Agency Contact: Chris Steinkruger
Email: Christopher.E.Steinkruger@illinois.gov
Phone #: 217-558-1256


Posting Group: Environmental & Natural Resources; Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

This title is within the Upward Mobility Program (UMP). General Program information can be found by clicking on the Upward Mobility Program link or for specific title information at UMP Titles.  To utilize upward mobility contractual rights for this position, employees must apply internally and must upload a copy of the UMP grade notice to their application documents prior to submission. UMP grades can be uploaded to the Additional Documents OR Grade Documentation section of the application.

This position [DOES NOT] contain "Specialized Skills" (as that term is used in CBAs).

Revolving Door: "Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during State employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor ("OEIG"), and seek a revolving door determination from the OEIG, or may be subject to a fine."

Agency Statement: The mission of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) is to safeguard environmental quality, consistent with the social and economic needs of the State of Illinois, so as to protect health, welfare, property and the quality of life.  IEPA works to safeguard the states natural resources from pollution to provide a healthy environment for its citizens. By partnering with businesses, local governments and citizens, IEPA is dedicated to continued protection of the air we breathe and our water and land resources.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

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