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Environmental Protection Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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Environmental Protection information

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$45.3K

$99.8K

$150.7K

How much do environmental protection jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental protection in Massachusetts is $99,848.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,400.00 and $127,200.00 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 are popular job titles related to Environmental Protection jobs in Massachusetts? For Environmental Protection jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Environmental Protection jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Protection jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Environmental Protection jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Environmental Protection job openings:
Infographic showing various Environmental Protection job openings in Massachusetts as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,848 per year, or $48 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Who We Are:
The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) seeks to protect, preserve, and enhance Massachusetts' environmental resources and create a clean energy future for all residents. Through the stewardship of open spaces, the protection of environmental resources, and the advancement of clean energy, EEA works tirelessly to make Massachusetts a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Our commitment to environmental justice ensures that every resident, regardless of background or location, can live in a safe, clean environment and shares equally in the benefits of the clean energy transition.
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is the state agency responsible for ensuring clean air, land, and water. Our work impacts every aspect of people's lives and is critical to the health and wellbeing of our residents and visitors. MassDEP is the lead agency for safe management of toxics and hazardous materials, promotion of waste reduction and recycling, preservation of the state's wetlands and coastal resources, air quality monitoring and pollution reduction, and so much more.
Who We Are as an Employer:
At EEA, we create meaningful, inclusive opportunities that empower our employees to make a real difference in shaping the environmental future of Massachusetts. We foster a workplace culture where diversity is valued, innovation is encouraged, and collaboration thrives. Our employees play a vital role in advancing sustainability, environmental justice, and clean energy solutions, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on Massachusetts and its residents.
Job Description:
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is seeking an Environmental Engineer II (EE II) to join the Southeast Regional Office in Lakeville, MA. Serving 84 cities and towns, including Cape Cod and the Islands, the Southeast Regional Office plays a critical role in safeguarding the region's air quality and environment. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a direct impact on public health, environmental protection, and air quality across Southeastern Massachusetts.
As a key member of the Southeast Regional Office's Air Program, the EE II will review permits, enforce air quality regulations, and ensure that industries operate responsibly. This work directly protects communities and mitigates the impacts of air pollution on both public health and the environment. The EE II will conduct engineering reviews of Air Quality Plan Applications and carry out compliance and enforcement activities for stationary, area, and major air pollution sources throughout the Southeast Region.
Job Duties:
  • Review moderately complex plan applications and drafts approvals for new and modified stationary sources.
  • Review proposed Air Pollution Control Equipment and understand the effectiveness of control options.
  • Investigating and resolving public complaints of air pollution (e.g. noise, dust, odor, combustion, etc.), in collaboration with other MassDEP staff and local officials.
  • Conducting site visits as necessary during investigations.
  • Performing single media air quality compliance inspections and preparing compliance reports and enforcement documents.
  • Directing and overseeing stack testing and other emission testing, including reviewing pre-test protocols, witnessing tests in the field, and reviewing post-test reports, and drafting acceptance or rejection letters.
  • Reviewing facility-submitted compliance reports and recommending enforcement action when appropriate.
  • Providing outreach and guidance to the regulated community and the public, including environmental justice communities.
  • Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of air pollution control principles and practices.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of air pollution control, including BACT, meteorology, industrial processes, and state and federal air quality and climate laws as they relate to permitting and compliance.
  • Familiarity with the federal Clean Air Act and state and federal air pollution regulations and policies.
  • Familiarity reviewing and evaluating top-down BACT analyses, engineering plans, specifications and standard operating and maintenance procedures for industrial processes, incinerators, power plants and air pollution control equipment.
  • Knowledge of air quality computer dispersion modeling and the relationship between energy and air quality.
  • Initiative and ability to work independently while also interacting effectively in a team environment.
  • Strong computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and Access.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Working at MassDEP is a meaningful opportunity to help reduce the impacts of climate change and air pollution, benefiting the people of the Commonwealth now and for future generations. Our staff are dedicated, talented, and collaborative, creating a supportive environment where your contributions make a real difference.
Qualifications:
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.
MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must have at least (A) three years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, technical or professional experience in the field of environmental engineering, civil engineering, sanitary engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering or public health engineering and (B) of which at least one year must have been in a professional capacity, or (C) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.
Substitutions:
I. An Associate's degree with a major in civil engineering or civil engineering technology may be substituted for a maximum of one year of the required (A) experience.*
II. A Bachelor's degree with a major in environmental engineering, civil engineering, civil engineering technology, sanitary engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering or public health engineering may be substituted for a maximum of two years of the required (A) experience.*
III. A Graduate degree with a major in environmental engineering, civil engineering, sanitary engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering or public health engineering may be substituted for the required experience.*
*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.