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Environmental Protection Specialist information

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$41.5K

$91.4K

$138K

How much do environmental protection specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental protection specialist in the United States is $91,426.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid environmental job?

Environmental Protection Specialists with advanced degrees and extensive experience can earn high salaries, especially in senior or managerial roles such as environmental managers or directors. These positions often require strong technical skills, certifications, and leadership abilities, and they typically offer the highest compensation within the environmental field.

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

To thrive as an Environmental Protection Specialist, you need a solid background in environmental science, regulations, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental monitoring equipment, and regulatory compliance systems is often required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and attention to detail help professionals excel in identifying issues and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills ensure effective protection of natural resources, regulatory compliance, and successful implementation of environmental programs.

What degree do you need to be an environmental specialist?

Environmental Protection Specialists typically need at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or specialized certifications, and strong knowledge of environmental regulations and data analysis tools is beneficial.

What Is an Environmental Protection Specialist?

An environmental protection specialist monitors the quality of our air, water, and soil through testing and data reports. Your job as an environmental protection specialist is to prevent or reduce the pollution of our planet by finding out where pollution is currently or is at risk of taking place due to human activity and enabling businesses and landowners to avoid pollutants in the future. Your duties include working individually or as a team to test the water and air quality against set industry or government standards to ensure compliance from landowners and businesses. After tests are complete, you run reports on your findings and implement a plan to reduce pollution.

Do you need a degree to be an EHS specialist?

Environmental Protection Specialists typically benefit from a bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field, though some positions may accept relevant work experience or certifications. Having knowledge of environmental regulations and safety protocols is essential, and certifications like OSHA or NEBOSH can enhance job prospects.

What are some typical challenges Environmental Protection Specialists face when balancing regulatory compliance with organizational objectives?

Environmental Protection Specialists often navigate the challenge of ensuring that their organization complies with environmental regulations while also meeting operational goals and deadlines. This requires strong communication and negotiation skills to collaborate with internal teams, regulators, and sometimes the public. They must stay updated on evolving laws and best practices, often implementing creative solutions to minimize environmental impact without hindering productivity. Successfully managing these demands is key to advancing in the field and building trust as a knowledgeable resource within the organization.

What is the difference between Environmental Protection Specialist vs Environmental Compliance Inspector?

AspectEnvironmental Protection SpecialistEnvironmental Compliance Inspector
Required credentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, or related field; certifications like EPA or state-specific licensesBachelor's degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, or related field; certifications such as EPA inspector certifications
Work environmentFieldwork, site assessments, policy development, and project managementInspecting facilities, reviewing compliance reports, enforcing environmental regulations
Employer and industry usageGovernment agencies, environmental consulting firms, industry corporationsRegulatory agencies, environmental consulting firms, industrial facilities

Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, often working in regulatory or consulting environments. The Environmental Protection Specialist focuses on developing policies and managing projects, while the Environmental Compliance Inspector primarily conducts inspections and enforces regulations. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right position based on their skills and career goals.

What does an environmental protection specialist do?

An environmental protection specialist is responsible for developing and implementing policies to reduce environmental hazards, monitor pollution levels, and ensure compliance with environmental laws. They often conduct inspections, analyze data, and recommend measures to protect natural resources, using tools like environmental sampling equipment and reporting software.
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What are popular job titles related to Environmental Protection Specialist jobs? For Environmental Protection Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Environmental Protection Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Environmental Protection Specialist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,426 per year, or $44 per hour.
Environmental Protection Specialist

Environmental Protection Specialist

Defense Logistics Agency

Camp Pendleton, CA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Defense Logistics Agency rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

269th of 832 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Telework Eligible

Yes

Major Duties

  • Serves as the senior Environmental Protection Specialist within assigned areas and supports DLA Disposition Services Field Activities disposing of hazardous materials/waste.
  • Monitors and enhances relationships between customers and DLA and coordinates customer outreach initiatives.
  • Promotes timely Reutilization, Transfer, Donation (RTD)/Sales to preclude service contracts being used to provide ultimate disposal.
  • Conducts on-site reviews/inspections of environmental operations and ensures compliance with applicable policies/laws/regulations.
  • Resolves problems associated with the receipt and disposal of hazardous materials/waste.
  • Conducts reviews, analyses, and special studies of DLA Disposition Services automated accounts to evaluate hazardous property inventory integrity and accuracy.
  • Assists management in strategic planning process to align DLA Disposition Services organizations with DLA Disposition Services/DLA/DoD objectives and goals.
  • Identifies, develops, coordinates, and provides support to implement new/revised policies, procedures, plans, and programs.

Qualification Summary

To qualify for an Environmental Protection Specialist your resume and supporting documentation must support: A. Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience that equipped you with the particular competencies to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled. To qualify at the GS-12, applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service, military or private sector. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements including time-in-grade (General Schedule (GS) positions only), time-after-competitive appointment, minimum qualifications, and any other regulatory requirements by the cut-off/closing date of the announcement. Creditable specialized experience includes: Conducting audits of environmental operations and facilities, ensuring all hazardous materials/waste practices are in compliance with all DoD federal and state environmental requirements Researching, developing, and conducting training seminars on environmental operations and programs. Identifying, analyzing, and correcting environmental deficiencies and determining the best disposal solutions. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

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