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Environmental Protection Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Scientist

Portland, OR · On-site

$79K - $104K/yr

TetraTechis adding an Environmental Scientist to our water resources environmental team based in ... Endangered Species Act / Marine Mammal Protection Act compliance for U.S. Coast Guard bases in ...

The Asset Protection Specialist is primarily responsible for preventing financial loss caused by theft and fraud and supporting safety and environmental program compliance in their assigned store ...

Asset Protection Specialist

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$21 - $22.50/hr

The Asset Protection Specialist is primarily responsible for preventing financial loss caused by theft and fraud and supporting safety and environmental program compliance in their assigned store ...

Environmental Scientist

Portland, OR

$79K - $104K/yr

TetraTechis adding an Environmental Scientist to our water resources environmental team based in ... Endangered Species Act / Marine Mammal Protection Act compliance for U.S. Coast Guard bases in ...

Asset Protection Specialist

Vancouver, WA

$21 - $22.50/hr

The Asset Protection Specialist is primarily responsible for preventing financial loss caused by theft and fraud and supporting safety and environmental program compliance in their assigned store ...

The Asset Protection Specialist is primarily responsible for preventing financial loss caused by theft and fraud and supporting safety and environmental program compliance in their assigned store ...

Fire Protection Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$32.84 - $52.30/hr

McKinstry is innovating the waste and climate harm out of the built environment and creating ... The Opportunity with McKinstry We are adding a Fire Protection Designer II to our growing Fire ...

Fire Protection Designer

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$32.84 - $52.30/hr

McKinstry is innovating the waste and climate harm out of the built environment and creating ... The Opportunity with McKinstry We are adding a Fire Protection Designer II to our growing Fire ...

Showing results 41-60

Environmental Protection information

See Portland, OR salary details

$44K

$97K

$146.3K

How much do environmental protection jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental protection in Portland, OR is $96,957.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,200.00 and $123,500.00 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 Portland, OR? For Environmental Protection jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Environmental Protection jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Protection jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Environmental Protection job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,957 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Environmental Scientist

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Portland, OR • On-site

$79K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Tetra Tech rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

395th of 441 rated engineering


Job description

The Opportunity:
TetraTechis adding an Environmental Scientist to our water resources environmental team based in Portland, OR.
Why Tetra Tech:
At Tetra Tech, we areLeading with Scienceto solve the world's most complex challenges.Our industry-leading expertsin engineering and consultingare committed to driving positivechangein communities around the world.For60 years, wehavebeen at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.Today we stand as a market leader, offeringcutting-edgesolutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.Our work has improved more than625million lives around the world.
Your Impact:
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.Our workleveragescutting-edgetechnologies, advanced analytics, and theexpertiseof world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world.Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leavinga lasting legacy.
Position Summary:
We're currently seeking an Environmental Scientist to join our team of biologists, environmental planners, and engineers who specialize in aquatic habitat restoration, biological studies, environmental assessments, permit applications, and NEPA documentation for projects throughout the West Coast and Alaska. Our team has worked on several exciting and impactful projects, including:
  • Environmental review of an 800,000-acre-foot groundwater bank in California

  • Wetland restoration on islands in the Columbia River

  • Salton Sea Restoration Project

  • Endangered Species Act / Marine Mammal Protection Act compliance for U.S. Coast Guard bases in Alaska and the west coast

  • Wildlife monitoring on the Santa Ana River

  • Permitting fish passage restoration projects in Washington

This position offers diverse project types and clear opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the firm.
Essential Job Functions:
The following duties are essential to this role. Reasonable accommodation will be madeto enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.
  • Prepare, review, and analyze environmental documentation under NEPA, SEPA, and CEQA processes.

  • Prepare Endangered Species Act (ESA) compliance documentation, including technical reports and field-based assessments.

  • Conduct field surveys related to vegetation, wildlife habitat, and riverine features throughout the Pacific Northwest.

  • Perform GIS mapping and data analysis to support project planning, environmental review, and reporting.

  • Conduct wetland delineations in accordance with applicable methodologies and regulatory standards.

  • Apply wetland and stream rapid assessment methodologies in California, Oregon, and Washington.

  • Prepare and oversee the development of environmental permits, including Clean Water Act Sections 404 and 401 permits.

  • Support stream and wetland restoration planning and implementation activities.

  • Perform task management and assist project management for complex environmental projects.

  • Assist with business development efforts related to biological and environmental services.

Requirements / Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biology, Geography, Environmental Sciences, Water Resources Sciences, or a related field.

  • Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in environmental sciences, including NEPA, permitting, GIS, surveying, water quality, and wetland delineations.

  • Demonstrated knowledge of local plant, fish, and/or wildlife species and their habitat requirements.

  • Proven ability to research and prepare reports on environmental disciplines, regulations, and policies, including NEPA, SEPA, and ESA documentation.

  • Experience with federal, state, and local environmental permitting regulations and processes.

  • Ability to communicate professionally and work collaboratively with regulatory agency staff, co-workers, management, clients, and the public.

  • Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects and deliver work products on time.

  • Effective oral and written communication skills.

  • Proficiency with GPS equipment and ArcGIS software.

  • Valid driver's license.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to travel to project sites throughout the Western Coast of the United States, with work primarily performed within 1-2 hours of Portland, Oregon. This position may require up to 15% annual travel, including occasional overnight travel.

  • Ability to perform fieldwork in rugged and/or muddy conditions for extended periods, including walking, standing, bending, and kneeling.

  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, rain, wind, and cold.

  • Ability to lift and carry materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

  • Ability to sit at a workstation and use a computer for extended periods, up to 8 hours per day, with additional hours as needed.

  • Manual dexterity to use a computer, keyboard, mouse, and other tools.

  • Ability to read and interpret documents.

  • Strong communication skills, both in person and electronically.

Additional Information:
  • This position is based in ourPortland, OR office on a hybrid schedule.

  • This position is scheduled for full-time work (40 hours/week) with a typical schedule of 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday.

  • Additionalhours may berequiredbased on project needs (e.g., early start times and prolonged field efforts).

  • Combination of office-based and outdoor field environments.

Life at Tetra Tech:
Theperksof working at Tetra Tech include:
  • Comprehensive and market-competitivebenefits.

  • Merit-based financial rewards.

  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.

  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.

  • Learning and development opportunitiesfor ongoingprofessional growth.

About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment,and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With25,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems byLeading with Science®to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Techis proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.Allqualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability,sex, marital or familial status,status as a protected veteran,orany other characteristic protectedbylaw.
Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federalcontractorand we request priority referral of veterans.
We inviteapplicationsfrom all interested parties.
Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs
We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.
Please no phone calls or agencies.

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