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Environmental Protection Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Design systems and environmental protection plans. Apply sound engineering principles and be able to communicate complex engineering issues and concepts to technical and non-technical clients and ...

Environmental Specialist I

East Saint Louis, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Department of Transportation (DOT)/Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and VES-TS regulations required in submitting paperwork to expedite disposal of hazardous waste. * Operate and maintain all ...

Environmental Specialist I

Sauget, IL

$24 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Department of Transportation (DOT)/Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and VES-TS regulations required in submitting paperwork to expedite disposal of hazardous waste. * Operate and maintain all ...

Environmental Specialist I

Sauget, IL · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Department of Transportation (DOT)/Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and VES-TS regulations required in submitting paperwork to expedite disposal of hazardous waste. * Operate and maintain all ...

(USA) Asset Protection Associate - All DC/FC

Edwardsville, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Asset Protection Security Possesses knowledge of Asset protection policies practices and guidelines environmental health and safety laws and regulations To be able to carry out the following ...

Environmental Specialist

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Environmental Specialist frequently handles hazardous chemicals and biological waste and is responsible for putting on and taking off personal protective equipment. This role is considered safety ...

Showing results 21-40

Environmental Protection information

See Illinois salary details

$40.2K

$88.6K

$133.7K

How much do environmental protection jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental protection in Illinois is $88,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,900.00 and $112,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in environmental protection roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Environmental Protection often encounter challenges such as balancing regulatory compliance with organizational goals, staying updated on evolving environmental laws, and effectively communicating complex scientific information to non-experts. To address these challenges, it’s important to engage in ongoing professional development, collaborate closely with legal and technical teams, and develop strong communication skills. Building networks within the industry and participating in relevant workshops can also help professionals stay informed and adaptable in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Environmental Protection vs Environmental Compliance?

AspectEnvironmental ProtectionEnvironmental Compliance
Primary FocusPreventing environmental harm through proactive measuresEnsuring adherence to environmental laws and regulations
CertificationsEnvironmental certifications, safety trainingEnvironmental compliance certifications, regulatory training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, site inspections, environmental projectsOffice-based, regulatory documentation, audits
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, environmental organizations, industries with environmental impactCorporations, consulting firms, regulatory agencies

Environmental Protection focuses on proactive measures to prevent environmental damage, while Environmental Compliance emphasizes adhering to laws and regulations. Both roles often overlap but serve different strategic purposes within environmental management.

What is environmental protection?

Environmental protection refers to the practices and policies aimed at preserving the natural environment from degradation caused by human activities. This includes regulating pollution, conserving natural resources, restoring damaged ecosystems, and ensuring sustainable development. Professionals working in environmental protection may be involved in monitoring environmental quality, enforcing laws, and promoting public awareness about sustainability. Their goal is to balance human needs with the health of the planet, ensuring clean air, water, and land for present and future generations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in environmental protection?

To thrive in Environmental Protection, you need a solid background in environmental science, regulatory compliance, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with environmental monitoring tools, GIS software, and reporting systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail help professionals effectively assess risks and engage stakeholders. These skills are essential for ensuring environmental regulations are met and for developing solutions that protect natural resources and public health.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Environmental Protection jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Environmental Protection job openings:

Infographic showing various Environmental Protection job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,594 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Staff Environmental Engineer

TERRACON

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 22 hours ago


Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

Provide engineering and consulting services for a broad array of environmental projects and clients. This may include performing and/or leading environmental site investigations, engineering analysis, calculations and recommendations, design and development of plans and specifications, observation and inspection, and the writing, preparation, and review of related reports for the services provided. Identify, evaluate and recommend risk and remediation strategies/designs to ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations. Prepare applicable permit applications, risk assessments and technical documents including proposals, reports and regulatory agency correspondence. Design systems and environmental protection plans. Apply sound engineering principles and be able to communicate complex engineering issues and concepts to technical and non-technical clients and project teams. Services may include a variety of environmental-related work including Phase I/II environmental site assessments, ecological and natural resource field surveys, tank closure assessment
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering or related degree.
  • Minimum 1-3 years' experience.
  • Master's degree in Environmental Engineering preferred.
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Demonstrate quality practices and acumen.
  • Provide consistent quality standards on proposal and project delivery.
  • Proficient environmental engineering professional responsible for managing and executing site testing and making recommendations for systems design on smaller projects of minimal complexity.
  • Assists in developing the scope of work for routine projects.
  • Performs site visits, field observations and field data collection or assignments.
  • Evaluates moderately complex laboratory and field data and assembles in written reports
  • Implements technical requirements to complete client projects by directing and supervising field staff to sample, test and collect data and/or document site activities.
  • Works closely with senior-level project manager and Professional Engineer of Record to gain project management and engineering experience.
  • Prepares proposals and reports and outlines investigations for approval by senior level professionals.
  • May supervise field staff including field engineers, environmental scientists and technicians.
  • Interacts with client and project team in developing scope of services and communicating project progress.
  • Works under the supervision of a Professional Engineer and a Terracon Authorized Project Reviewer.

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