1

Environmental Science Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Scientist

Independence, IA · On-site

$71K - $93K/yr

Join a team that has the environment down to a science. Our Environmental Services group is dedicated to managing environmental issues professionally and proactively. Our staff of professionals ...

Environmental Scientist

Independence, IA · On-site

$71K - $93K/yr

Join a team that has the environment down to a science. Our Environmental Services group is dedicated to managing environmental issues professionally and proactively. Our staff of professionals ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Environmental Science information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$40.4K

$83K

$121.3K

How much do environmental science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental science in Waterloo, IA is $82,950.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $97,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Environmental Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Environmental Science, a strong background in biology, chemistry, and ecology—often supported by a relevant degree—is essential. Familiarity with data analysis software, geographic information systems (GIS), and field sampling equipment is typically required, and certifications like HAZWOPER can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills help professionals interpret data and collaborate on environmental solutions. These abilities are crucial for effectively addressing environmental issues and making informed recommendations that impact public health and policy.

What is an Environmental Science job?

An Environmental Science job involves studying the environment and finding solutions to issues such as pollution, conservation, and sustainability. Professionals in this field work in various sectors, including government agencies, research institutions, and private companies, to assess environmental impact and develop strategies for improvement. Common roles include environmental consultant, scientist, specialist, or engineer, focusing on areas like water quality, climate change, and natural resource management. These jobs require data analysis, fieldwork, and collaboration with policymakers or organizations to implement environmental solutions. A degree in environmental science or a related field is typically required.

What are the typical projects or tasks environmental science professionals work on?

Environmental science professionals commonly work on projects such as conducting environmental impact assessments, collecting and analyzing soil, water, or air samples, and developing sustainability plans for organizations or communities. They may also collaborate with policy makers, engineers, and local agencies to design solutions that address pollution or resource management challenges. Daily tasks often involve both fieldwork and data analysis, with some roles requiring report writing or presenting findings to stakeholders. These diverse responsibilities provide opportunities to develop specialized expertise and contribute to meaningful environmental improvements.

What can you do with environmental science?

Environmental science graduates and professionals can work in areas such as environmental consulting, conservation, pollution control, and resource management. They often analyze data, develop policies, and use tools like GIS and environmental monitoring equipment to address ecological issues and promote sustainability.

Is environmental science a useful degree?

Environmental science is a useful degree for careers in environmental consulting, conservation, policy, and research. It provides knowledge of ecological systems, data analysis, and environmental regulations, which are valuable in various industries focused on sustainability and environmental protection.

What careers can you get with environmental science?

Environmental science graduates can pursue careers such as environmental analyst, conservation scientist, environmental engineer, sustainability coordinator, and environmental consultant. These roles often require knowledge of ecology, chemistry, and data analysis, and may involve fieldwork, research, or policy development.

Which job is for environmental science?

A common job in environmental science is an environmental scientist, who studies environmental issues, conducts fieldwork, and analyzes data to develop solutions. Other related roles include environmental technician, conservation scientist, and environmental engineer, often requiring relevant degrees and knowledge of environmental regulations and tools like GIS software.
What are popular job titles related to Environmental Science jobs in Waterloo, IA? For Environmental Science jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Environmental Science jobs in Waterloo, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Science jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Environmental Science jobs? Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Environmental Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Environmental Science job openings in Waterloo, IA 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 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,950 per year, or $39.9 per hour.
Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientist

Stantec

Independence, IA • On-site

$71K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Stantec rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

112th of 442 rated engineering


Job description


Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. We draw from more than 20 technical specialties around the globe and are committed to fostering an inclusive community of diverse talents, backgrounds, and expertise. We're a place to apply your passion and collaborate with top environmental talents on work that is critical to our clients and the communities they support. Join a team that has the environment down to a science.
Our Environmental Services group is dedicated to managing environmental issues professionally and proactively. Our staff of professionals includes specialists in marine biology, wetland science, wildlife biology, soil science, fisheries biology, botany, hydrogeology, hydrology, forestry, habitat and ecosystem restoration, permitting, GIS, and Information Management. We help our clients identify and respond to opportunities and threats within constantly changing regulatory and corporate environments, through active engagement with the public, stakeholder groups, and governmental regulators. Our team members have the opportunity to be involved in a variety of projects that may include endangered species assessments, environmental impact assessment, habitat restoration, wetland characterizations, and water resources management.
Your Opportunity
We are seeking an exceptionally talented and enthusiastic individual with a keen interest in the natural sciences to join our Midwest team and advance their career. We have an opportunity for you that focuses on protecting threatened and endangered species and their habitats throughout Iowa. The Environmental Scientist position will primarily be responsible for assessing impacts of transportation projects under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, consultation and coordination with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and Iowa Department of Natural Resources, implementation of avoidance and mitigation measures to preserve and mitigate unavoidable impacts, and other related work as required.
Your Key Responsibilities
  • Review proposed transportation project concepts and plans to assess potential impacts on protected species, critical habitats, and other protected areas (e.g., Loess Hills, forested land) as provided for in state, federal, and local environmental laws, regulations, and policies.
  • Serve as Federal Highway Administration designee for consultation with regulatory agencies.
  • Attend meetings and work closely with internal transportation engineers, planners, wetland biologists, cultural resources managers, and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) staff to review/minimize/mitigate projects cohesively.
  • Coordinate the minimization and mitigation of unavoidable project impacts to protected species, critical habitats, and other sensitive areas.
  • Occasional overnight travel required.
  • Other duties may include, but are not limited to, participating in multi-disciplinary environmental assessments; recording, entering, organizing, managing, and analyzing data; writing technical reports for client and regulatory agency review; and attending client and regulatory agency meetings and providing recommendations and input.

Qualifications
Your Capabilities and Credentials
  • Knowledge of and/or experience with federal, state, and/or local environmental permitting processes specifically related to endangered species, ESA, MBTA, BGEPA, and/or NEPA.
  • Ideal candidate will be a team player and have exceptional oral and written communication, and presentation skills; analytical and creative problem-solving skills; and organizational and note-taking skills.
  • Effective leadership and management skills.
  • Work collaboratively with diverse groups of people.
  • Strong problem solving and analytical skills.
  • Maintains an attitude of determination and dedication.
  • Displays high standards of ethical conduct. Addresses and listens to others in a respectful manner.
  • Ability to interface effectively and collaborate with clients, peers, management, and vendors to successfully meet shifting needs.
  • Ability to interface effectively and collaborate with clients, peers, management, and vendors to successfully meet shifting needs.
  • Integrates work across relevant areas, develop the business and services to enhance customer satisfaction and productivity, manage risks and safety appropriately, manage information, and provide exceptional service to internal and external customers.
  • Effective in resource planning, results delivery, and staying current with relevant technology and innovation.
  • Strong ethics, influence and negotiation, leadership, the ability to effectively manage stress and engage in continuous learning.
  • Ability to motivate self and others to overcome obstacles and achieve goals.
  • Works well under pressure. Can prioritize and balance sometimes heavy workloads to achieve goals while keeping up with a highly mobile and changing environment.
  • Works well with others and keeps other team members aware of project and client needs.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word.
  • Possess a valid driver's license with a good driving record.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor of Science degree in environmental science, natural resources, ecology, wildlife, or related biological field.
  • 2 to 4 years of relevant experience, preferably working on transportation projects.
  • Must live within 1 hour Ames, Iowa.

This position primarily involves working in an office environment with computers. This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
Stantec is a place where the best and brightest come to build on each other's talents, do exciting work, and make an impact on the world around us. Join us and redefine your personal best.

What Stantec employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom