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Industrial Ecologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Conduct ecological and natural resource field surveys such as wetland delineations and threatened ... industrial hygienists, planners, and scientists. Working together in the field, office, or lab, we ...

Conduct ecological and natural resource field surveys such as wetland delineations and threatened ... industrial hygienists, planners, and scientists. Working together in the field, office, or lab, we ...

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Industrial Ecologist information

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How much do industrial ecologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for industrial ecologist in the United States is $28.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an industrial ecologist?

Industrial ecologists study the flow of materials and energy through industrial systems, aiming to make production processes more sustainable. They analyze how industries impact the environment and develop strategies to minimize waste, pollution, and resource consumption. By applying ecological principles to industrial processes, they help organizations improve efficiency and reduce their environmental footprint. Their work often involves collaborating with engineers, environmental scientists, and policymakers.

What does an industrial ecologist do?

An industrial ecologist studies or improves the process by which natural resources are utilized or made into products for human consumption. Their duties are to study how these processes impact the environment or the natural ecosystem. They use this data to create models and make suggestions on how to improve a process. Additional responsibilities include the review of industrial practices to ensure there are no potential liabilities or environmental hazards. Qualifications to become an industrial ecologist often include a master’s degree or doctorate in environmental science, biology, or a related field.

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

To thrive as an Industrial Ecologist, you need a solid background in environmental science, systems analysis, and data interpretation, often supported by a relevant degree in ecology, environmental engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with life cycle assessment (LCA) software, geographic information systems (GIS), and environmental modeling tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help translate scientific findings into actionable strategies for organizations. These competencies are crucial for designing sustainable industrial processes and minimizing environmental impact.

What are some common challenges industrial ecologists face when working with different stakeholders in sustainability projects?

Industrial Ecologists often collaborate with businesses, government agencies, and community groups to develop and implement sustainable practices. A common challenge is balancing the diverse priorities of these stakeholders—such as economic goals, regulatory compliance, and environmental impact. Effective communication and negotiation skills are essential to build consensus and drive projects forward. Additionally, translating complex ecological data into actionable recommendations that all parties can understand is a key part of the role.

What is the difference between Industrial Ecologist vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectIndustrial EcologistEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related fields; certifications in sustainability or environmental managementBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related fields; often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, consulting firms, manufacturing facilities, government agenciesResearch labs, government agencies, environmental consulting, fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageIndustries focusing on sustainable resource use, manufacturing, consultingGovernment agencies, research institutions, environmental organizations

Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, often working in research or consulting environments. Industrial Ecologists focus on optimizing industrial processes for sustainability, while Environmental Scientists analyze environmental issues broadly. Their work environments and employer types overlap significantly, but their specific focus areas differ.

Are industrial ecologists in high demand?

Industrial ecologists are in growing demand as industries seek sustainable practices and environmental management expertise. They often work in consulting, government agencies, and corporations, utilizing skills in life cycle assessment and environmental modeling to address sustainability challenges.

What cities are hiring for Industrial Ecologist jobs?

Cities with the most Industrial Ecologist job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Industrial Ecologist jobs?

The top employers for Industrial Ecologist jobs are:

What states have the most Industrial Ecologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Industrial Ecologist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Industrial Ecologist jobs?

For Industrial Ecologist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Industrial Ecologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,375 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Senior Ecological/Natural Resources Consultant - TX

CK Associates

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

CK is growing our Ecological Program into Texas, and we're looking for an experienced scientist/biologist/ecologist, project manager, and client manager for a Senior Environmental Scientist role who is ready for greater project ownership, client responsibility, and career growth.
This is an opportunity to do more than manage individual technical assignments. You'll lead complex natural resource and environmental permitting projects, work directly with clients and regulatory agencies, mentor developing professionals, and help expand CK's ecological services throughout Texas and the Gulf Coast.
For someone who enjoys the technical side of ecological consulting but is also ready to strengthen client relationships, develop new opportunities, and grow as a project and business leader, this position offers significant room to advance.
What You'll Do
  • Support the continued growth of CK's Ecological Program by identifying opportunities with existing clients and developing relationships with new clients.
  • Lead natural resource and environmental permitting projects from initial scoping and proposal development through permitting and project completion.
  • Manage complex federal, state, and local permitting efforts, including Clean Water Act Sections 404 and 401, Rivers and Harbors Act Sections 10 and 408, and coastal permitting.
  • Manage Waters of the US (WOTUS) delineations, jurisdictional evaluations, and coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and other regulatory agencies.
  • Develop permitting strategies that help clients successfully navigate complex environmental and natural resource requirements.
  • Manage project scope, schedules, budgets, invoicing, QA/QC, subcontractors, and client communications.
  • Prepare and review technical reports, permit applications, proposals, regulatory correspondence, and other project deliverables.
  • Lead and support wetland delineations, habitat assessments, threatened and endangered species evaluations, and other natural resource field investigations.
  • Evaluate wetland impacts and mitigation requirements using applicable federal and state assessment methodologies.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to clients and develop strong, long-term client relationships.
  • Mentor junior ecological staff and provide technical guidance and project oversight.
  • Participate in proposal development, client meetings, industry organizations, and other business development activities.

What We're Looking For
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Wildlife, Fisheries, Wetland Science, Natural Resources, or a related discipline.
  • 8+ years of environmental consulting or closely related natural resource experience, with progressive responsibility for managing projects and client relationships.
  • Demonstrated experience with:
    • WOTUS delineation and assessment
    • USACE Jurisdictional Determinations
    • USACE permitting
    • Coastal permitting
    • Wetland impact assessments and mitigation
    • Protected species assessment, survey, and consulting
  • Strong working knowledge of the Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, Rivers and Harbors Act, and Coastal Zone Management Act.
  • Experience coordinating with USACE and other federal, state, and local regulatory agencies.
  • Strong plant identification and taxonomy skills.
  • Proven ability to successfully manage multiple projects of varying size, complexity, and stage of completion.
  • Strong technical writing, communication, and presentation skills.
  • Experience working directly with clients and developing lasting client relationships.
  • Interest and ability to identify new project opportunities and contribute to business development.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience serving industrial, energy, petrochemical, infrastructure, pipeline, transportation, or other development clients in Texas and the Gulf Coast.
  • Experience with Texas permitting and natural resource regulatory programs.
  • Experience with wetland mitigation planning and applicable functional assessment methodologies.
  • Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) certification or other relevant professional certification.
  • Existing relationships with clients, regulatory agencies, or industry organizations in Texas.
  • Experience mentoring and developing junior technical professionals.

More Than Project Management, A Path for Growth
We're looking for someone who wants to continue building both the technical and business sides of their career.
In this role, you'll have opportunities to expand beyond project execution by developing client relationships, identifying new opportunities, mentoring staff, and helping shape the continued growth of CK's Ecological practice in Texas.
As your responsibilities grow, so can your role within the firm. Whether your career goals are centered around technical leadership, project and client management, business development, or broader program leadership,
CK provides opportunities to build a career path around your strengths and interests.
Additional Requirements
  • Ability and willingness to travel for client meetings, field investigations, and project needs.
  • Flexibility to occasionally work outside normal business hours when project schedules require.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record and ability to safely operate a full-size pickup truck.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Must meet applicable Drug & Alcohol, Health & Safety, and Security requirements for access to client facilities.

Why Join CK?
At CK, you'll join an employee-owned environmental consulting firm where your experience, ideas, and contributions matter.
We're large enough to provide challenging multidisciplinary projects for leading industrial clients, but small enough for experienced consultants to have a meaningful influence on clients, projects, teams, and the future direction of the firm.
We offer:
  • Employee ownership
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
  • Company-wide bonus opportunities
  • Hybrid work flexibility based on project and client needs
  • Direct client interaction and meaningful project ownership
  • Professional development and continuing education support
  • Opportunities to develop project management and business development skills
  • Mentoring and opportunities to mentor others
  • A clear path toward increased technical, client, and leadership responsibility
  • Collaboration with experienced professionals across CK's environmental disciplines

If you're an experienced ecological consultant who is ready for more ownership, stronger client involvement, and the opportunity to help grow a practice, we'd like to talk with you.