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Environmental Protection Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Engineering Intern

Corona, NY · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) enriches the environment and protects public health for all New Yorkers by providing 1.1 billion gallons of high-quality drinking water, managing ...

Wetland Scientist

Neptune, NJ · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Prepare permit applications and supporting documentation for New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) (Freshwater Wetlands, Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA), Waterfront ...

Wetland Scientist

New York, NY

$82K - $107K/yr

Prepare permit applications and supporting documentation for New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) (Freshwater Wetlands, Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA), Waterfront ...

Wetland Scientist

Florham Park, NJ

$78K - $103K/yr

Prepare permit applications and supporting documentation for New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) (Freshwater Wetlands, Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA), Waterfront ...

Wetland Scientist

Neptune City, NJ · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Prepare permit applications and supporting documentation for New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) (Freshwater Wetlands, Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA), Waterfront ...

Wetland Scientist

Neptune City, NJ

$79K - $103K/yr

Prepare permit applications and supporting documentation for New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) (Freshwater Wetlands, Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA), Waterfront ...

Wetland Scientist

Florham Park, NJ

$78K - $103K/yr

Prepare permit applications and supporting documentation for New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) (Freshwater Wetlands, Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA), Waterfront ...

Wetland Scientist

New York, NY

$82K - $107K/yr

Prepare permit applications and supporting documentation for New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) (Freshwater Wetlands, Coastal Area Facility Review Act (CAFRA), Waterfront ...

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Environmental Protection information

See New York salary details

$45.4K

$100K

$151K

How much do environmental protection jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental protection in New York is $100,023.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $127,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are some careers in environmental protection?

Careers in environmental protection include environmental scientist, environmental engineer, conservation scientist, environmental technician, and sustainability manager. These roles often require knowledge of environmental laws, data analysis, and the use of tools like GIS software, with many positions requiring relevant degrees and certifications.

What cities in New York are hiring for Environmental Protection jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Environmental Protection job openings:

Infographic showing various Environmental Protection job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,023 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

System Safety Specialist I-IV Environmental Protection

MABSTOA

New York, NY • On-site

Full-time

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


Job description

JOB INFORMATION: 

 Title:   

 System Safety Specialist I-IV Environmental Protection 

 Authority:   

 TA/OA  

 Department:   

 Office of System Safety  

 Division/Unit:   

 Environmental Protection  

 Location:   

 2 Broadway New York, NY 10004   

 Hours:  

 As required 

 Telework (if Applicable):  

 Reporting Manager (if Applicable):  

 Manager, Environmental Protection

 Deadline (if Applicable):  

 09/01/2026 

 Compensation\Authority - Union   

 TA – Non Rep 

 OA – Non Rep 

 System Safety Specialist I 

$67,933 - $80,421 

$67,933 - $80,421 

 System Safety Specialist II 

 $78,874 - $87,847 

$78,874 - $87,847 

 System Safety Specialist III 

 $89,162 - $101,647 

$89,162 - $101,647 

 System Safety Specialist IV 

 $99,326 - $115,445 

$99,326 - $115,445 

POSITION SUMMARY: 

This class of positions encompasses professional work at varying degrees of difficulty and responsibility as a scientific/technical/engineering specialist in environmental, industrial hygiene, or safety engineering analysis. There are four assignment levels within this class of positions. All personnel perform related work. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

This role requires strong analytical skills to interpret and assess environmental regulations, and to apply those requirements appropriately within New York City Transit’s operations, ensuring that regulatory obligations are understood, integrated into operations, and aligned with the organization’s broader safety objectives.

Broad responsibilities encompass reviewing and refining environmental programs such as Air, Stormwater, Universal Waste, Hazardous Waste, and Chemical and Petroleum Bulk Storage to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. Must be able to assess all contributing elements of a program to determine the enhancements needed to improve operational efficiency, strengthen program effectiveness, and elevate overall compliance. This includes providing clear guidance and support to operating departments as they implement environmental requirements. The role requires strong communication skills and the ability to work professionally with personnel at all levels, in both field and office settings.

Core duties comprise managing and responding to requests from operating departments, including the handling and disposal of hazardous, infectious, and universal waste; coordinating sampling and analysis; preparing and reviewing air permits and bulk storage certificates; keeping track of all applicable regulatory deadlines; and reviewing manifests, certificates of disposal, SPCC plans, and other compliance documents for accuracy.

Responsibilities also extend to managing vendor contracts, responding to departmental inquiries, and supporting the manager with various initiatives.

Field activities include conducting audits, inspections, and facility record reviews to evaluate compliance with environmental regulations and NYCT policies. Must also accompany regulatory agencies during walkthroughs and audits, serve as the point of contact throughout the process, and act as a liaison between the agencies and the organization to ensure consistent communication and coordinated follow‑up. The position includes preparing clear, comprehensive reports that document findings and recommendations.

May also require performing the same duties for MTA Bus Company.

The position requires someone who can work both independently and collaboratively, take initiative, work proactively, and maintain strong attention to detail and quality. Upholding high professional and technical standards is essential. Must be available for emergency response duties (using a company vehicle) and must possess a valid driver’s license.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

  • A four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent plus six (6) years of satisfactory, full-time professional system safety-related work; or   
  • A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college in engineering, fire safety, environmental or occupational safety, ergonomics, statistics, mathematics, chemical, physical or biological sciences, industrial hygiene, safety management, or a related field; plus at least two (2) years of satisfactory full-time experience in professional safety work; or  
  •  Educational and/or experience equivalent to that listed above. A master's degree in any of the fields indicated above may be substituted for one (1) year of experience. Additional experience needed for higher levels.   

Special Note: 

To be eligible for placement in Assignment Level II, individuals must have, after meeting the minimum requirements, one additional year of professional experience as described in "2" above.  

Desired Skills 

  • Bachelor of Science preferred.    
  • Must have familiarity with MS Word, Excel, and Access  
  • Knowledge of local, state and federal ENVIRONMENTAL regulations is essential
  • CSP (CERTIFIED SAFETY PROFESSIONAL), ASP (ASSOCIATE SAFETY PROFESSIONAL), or CHMM (CERTIFIED HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MANAGER).

SELECTION METHOD 

Based on evaluation of education, skills, experience, interview, and written assessment. 

All selected candidates will be subject to a full background investigation that includes employment and education. Discrepancies may lead to dismissal. 

OTHER INFORMATION 

Appointment may be at a comparable level to current level of selected candidate. (If necessary) 

As an employee of MTA NYC Transit, you may be required to complete an annual financial disclosure statement with the state of New York, if your position earns more than $101,379 (this is subject to change) per year or if the position is designated as a policy maker. 

TA APPLICANTS MUST BE IN A PERMANENT CIVIL SERVICE STATUS IN THE TITLE(S). IF YOU ARE ON AN ESTABLISHED LIST, YOUR LIST NUMBER MUST BE REACHABLE TO BE CONSIDERED FOR APPOINTMENT. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is North America's largest transportation network, serving a population of 15.3 million people across a 5,000-square-mile travel area surrounding New York City, Long Island, southeastern New York State, and Connecticut. The MTA network comprises the nation’s largest bus fleet and more subway and commuter rail cars than all other U.S. transit systems combined. MTA strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

Final salary is determined experience, skillset, and alignment with compensation practices. The posted range reflects expected compensation and may be updated as market or business needs evolve. 

To be eligible for consideration for a new role, current MTA employees must complete at least one year of service in their current role prior to applying. Additionally, eligibility to interview is contingent upon maintaining a satisfactory record of job performance, attendance, and disciplinary conduct. Pursuant to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”). 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities. 

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.