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Environmental Scientist Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Scientist/Geologist

Springfield, IL · On-site

$74K - $97K/yr

Foth is currently seeking a team-focused, innovative, and results-oriented Geologist / Environmental Scientist who is looking for new learning experiences, opportunities for career growth, and a ...

Foth is currently seeking a team-focused, innovative, and results-oriented Geologist / Environmental Scientist who is looking for new learning experiences, opportunities for career growth, and a ...

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Environmental Scientist information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$40.6K

$83.4K

$121.9K

How much do environmental scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental scientist in Springfield, IL is $83,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,300.00 and $97,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can I do with environmental science?

Environmental scientists can work in roles such as environmental consultant, conservation scientist, environmental analyst, or sustainability specialist. These jobs often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and reporting, and may require knowledge of environmental regulations and tools like GIS software.

Is environmental science a high paying job?

Environmental scientists typically earn a median salary that is around the national average for science and engineering roles, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Advanced positions or specialized fields such as environmental consulting or policy can offer higher compensation, especially with certifications and expertise in data analysis or environmental modeling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Environmental Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Scientist, you need a solid background in environmental science or related fields, strong analytical skills, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental modeling tools, and data analysis programs is often required, along with relevant certifications like HAZWOPER. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for collaboration and effective reporting. These competencies are vital for accurately assessing environmental issues, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving impactful solutions.

What type of work do environmental scientists do?

Environmental scientists analyze environmental data, conduct fieldwork, and develop solutions to environmental problems such as pollution, waste management, and conservation. They often use tools like GIS and require knowledge of environmental laws and regulations to inform policy and decision-making.

What are some common challenges Environmental Scientists face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Environmental Scientists often collaborate with professionals from engineering, policy, and public health backgrounds. A common challenge is translating scientific findings into actionable recommendations that are understandable to non-scientists. Balancing differing priorities, such as regulatory compliance versus environmental protection, can also create tension. Effective communication and adaptability are essential for ensuring that environmental concerns are accurately represented and integrated into broader project goals.

What Do Environmental Scientists Do?

Environmental scientists conduct research designed to recognize hazardous conditions that affect the environment or public health, such as pollution or water contamination, and suggest ways to control or remove them. This research generally involves collecting and analyzing various environmental samples, examining published data from other scientists, and exploring connections between the results and human activity. Environmental scientists need to be excellent communicators and writers, preparing reports, research papers, and presentations that demonstrate and defend their findings.

What is the difference between Environmental Scientist vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEnvironmental ScientistEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, or related field; often advanced degrees for specialized rolesAssociate's or bachelor's degree in environmental technology or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research labs, data analysis, report writingField sampling, data collection, equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, consulting firms, research institutionsEnvironmental service companies, government agencies, industrial sites

Environmental Scientists and Environmental Technicians both work to protect the environment, but Scientists focus on research, data analysis, and developing solutions, while Technicians primarily collect samples and perform field tests. Their roles complement each other within environmental projects.

What are Environmental Scientists?

Environmental Scientists are professionals who study the environment and find ways to protect it from pollution and other hazards. They analyze air, water, and soil samples to identify environmental problems and develop solutions to minimize human impact on the environment. Their work often involves conducting research, preparing reports, and advising organizations and governments on environmental policies. Environmental Scientists play a crucial role in sustainability and conservation efforts worldwide.

What are the top 12 careers for environmental majors?

Environmental majors can pursue careers such as environmental scientist, environmental consultant, conservation scientist, environmental engineer, wildlife biologist, sustainability specialist, environmental policy analyst, water resource manager, environmental educator, renewable energy analyst, climate change analyst, and environmental health and safety manager. These roles often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of environmental regulations, and proficiency with data collection tools. Many positions also benefit from relevant certifications and field experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Scientist jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Environmental Scientist jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Environmental Scientist jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Scientist jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Environmental Scientist jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Environmental Scientist job openings:
Infographic showing various Environmental Scientist job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,375 per year, or $40.1 per hour.
Environmental Scientist/Geologist

Environmental Scientist/Geologist

Foth

Springfield, IL • On-site

$74K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Foth is a 100% member-owned science and engineering consulting firm headquartered in Wisconsin, with over 85 years of success. Our 750 members across 33 locations are dedicated to solving our clients’ toughest science and engineering challenges. Consistently ranked by Engineering News Record in the top 150 firms, we offer a values-based, collaborative, and flexible work environment with professional growth opportunities. If you thrive working alongside a smart and caring team, Foth may be the place for you.
Join our team and experience the Foth difference that contributes to our impressive 92+% member retention rate! Learn more at foth.com/careers. 


Foth is currently seeking a team-focused, innovative, and results-oriented Geologist / Environmental Scientist who is looking for new learning experiences, opportunities for career growth, and a desire to contribute to our clients’ success.  This position will be located in one of our Green Bay, WI; Madison, WI; Minneapolis, MN; Duluth, MN; Springfield, IL; Des Moines, IA or Cedar Rapids, IA locations with a hybrid option.  This role does require the ability to travel to project and team locations on an occasional, as-needed basis.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Provide environmental review and data analysis for multiple environmental, regulatory, and permitting projects throughout the Midwest
  • Coordinate, plan, and execute environmental and technical fieldwork, including independent field assignments, documentation, and reporting
  • Provide project review, analysis, and summary of regulations and procedures governing environmental review, permitting, and data analysis
  • Interact with project stakeholders and key regulatory agency personnel to assist project proponents in navigating environmental review and permitting
  • Draft and contribute to environmental review and technical documents—such as Environmental Impact Statements, Environmental Assessments, Biological Assessments, field observation reports, and technical memoranda—including data research, analysis, and synthesis aligned with stakeholder goals and regulatory standards
  • Coordinate project tasks and field activities using strong organizational skills, ensuring effective collaboration among project team members
  • Present technical concepts, analyses, and findings clearly and concisely to internal teams, clients, and stakeholders
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Geology, Hydrogeology, or related field
  • Experience with field sampling methods and related data management and reporting
  • Experience working with environmental data sources, metrics and standards
  • Experience managing multiple project tasks simultaneously
Preferred Qualifications:
  • 2+ years of experience in a similar environmental scientist role
  • Demonstrable experience in preparation of environmental permitting or environmental review documents in the upper Midwest
  • Experience with Federal environmental review processes including NEPA and state environmental review processes such as MEPA
  • Experience with preparing federal and state permit applications for natural resource projects
  • Private-sector or government experience, especially in the environmental review or permitting fields
  • Basic GIS experience
The base compensation listed for this job posting reflects a general range for the posted position.  Base compensation will vary based on factors such as: years of experience, location, level of responsibility and licenses/certifications. In addition to base compensation, Foth members may be eligible to receive bonuses through our Earned Performance Incentive program. All employees are eligible for On-the-Spot bonuses.  Exempt members are also eligible for either quarterly and/or annual bonuses.  Eligible full-time and part-time members will be offered medical, dental, vision insurance, employee assistance program, disability, retirement, holiday pay, paid time off, and several other voluntary benefits. Please reach out to the recruiting team to discuss any specific benefits or compensation questions.  
 
Note: In some situations, we may consider an alternative position based on your skill set and experience. This may result in a different compensation range.
All Foth Companies are equal opportunity employers, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. Qualified women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. All locations are tobacco-free.  Subject to applicable state law, all applicants who have received a written offer of employment and a copy of Foth’s Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace Program Policy, will be required to undergo testing for commonly abused controlled substances. Applicants must complete the required drug testing within two business days of offer acceptance.  Foth will pay for all drug testing, which will be conducted by a licensed independent medical laboratory that follows testing requirements in accordance with applicable state law.
 
Colorado Residents: In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
 
Notice to Third Party Recruiters/Agencies: Foth does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiting firms. Absent a signed recruiting agreement coordinated through Foth, Foth reserves the right to pursue and hire candidates without financial obligation to third party recruiters or agencies.
 
Artificial Intelligence: Foth uses artificial intelligence and other technology-assisted tools in connection with parts of our recruiting and hiring process, including to assist with reviewing application materials, identifying potentially qualified candidates, sourcing candidates, and supporting interview preparation.  These tools are used to support, but do not replace, human decision-making, and all employment decisions are made by qualified human reviewers.  Where required by law, we will provide additional information regarding the use of these tools, and applicants may contact us with questions or request reasonable accommodation regarding their use.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.