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Lead Environmental Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QK

Senior Environmental Scientist

Clovis, CA · On-site

$83K - $111K/yr

Lead Meaningful Projects. Shape Communities. Protect Natural Resources. At QK, we believe great environmental science helps create thriving communities while protecting the natural systems that ...

QK

Senior Environmental Scientist

Clovis, CA · On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

Lead Meaningful Projects. Shape Communities. Protect Natural Resources. At QK, we believe great environmental science helps create thriving communities while protecting the natural systems that ...

QK

Senior Environmental Scientist

Clovis, CA · On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

Lead Meaningful Projects. Shape Communities. Protect Natural Resources. At QK, we believe great environmental science helps create thriving communities while protecting the natural systems that ...

QK

Senior Environmental Scientist

Clovis, CA · On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

Lead Meaningful Projects. Shape Communities. Protect Natural Resources. At QK, we believe great environmental science helps create thriving communities while protecting the natural systems that ...

KERAMIDA Inc.

Senior Environmental Scientist

Carnegie, PA · On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

The Senior Environmental Scientist leads wetland and stream delineations, environmental permitting ... This role serves as a technical lead and client-facing point of contact on multidisciplinary ...

pondco

Environmental Scientist Lead

Tampa, FL

$70K - $93K/yr

About the Position We are searching for an experienced Scientist Lead to join our growing Environmental group in the following markets; Atlanta, Ga, Jacksonville, Fl and Tampa, Fl. The ideal ...

pondco

Environmental Scientist Lead

Peachtree Corners, GA · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

About the Position We are searching for an experienced Scientist Lead to join our growing Environmental group in the following markets; Atlanta, Ga, Jacksonville, Fl and Tampa, Fl. The ideal ...

True Environmental

Environmental Scientist

New York, NY · On-site

$70K/yr

We are currently seeking an Environmental Scientist I for our growing environmental consulting ... The successful candidate will lead project and field work, including Phase I and II Environmental ...

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All JobsEnergy And Environment JobsEnvironment JobsEnvironmental Scientist JobsLead Environmental Scientist Jobs

Lead Environmental Scientist information

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$27K

$112.7K

$200.5K

How much do lead environmental scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead environmental scientist in the United States is $112,722.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $123,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead environmental scientist do?

A Lead Environmental Scientist is responsible for overseeing environmental research, assessments, and projects to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainability. They lead teams in collecting and analyzing environmental data, develop mitigation strategies, and provide expert guidance to organizations and government agencies. Their work often involves preparing reports, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring that projects minimize negative impacts on the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead environmental scientist?

To thrive as a Lead Environmental Scientist, you need a solid background in environmental science, regulatory compliance, and project management, usually supported by an advanced degree and relevant certifications. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental modeling tools, and data analysis platforms is typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills set top professionals apart in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring compliance, managing multidisciplinary teams, and delivering impactful environmental solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by lead environmental scientists when managing multidisciplinary project teams?

Lead Environmental Scientists often coordinate teams of specialists such as ecologists, engineers, and regulatory experts. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication across disciplines to align project goals and timelines. Balancing regulatory compliance, stakeholder expectations, and scientific rigor can also be demanding. Success in this role frequently depends on strong project management skills, adaptability, and the ability to mentor team members while keeping projects on track.

What is the difference between Lead Environmental Scientist vs Environmental Consultant?

AspectLead Environmental ScientistEnvironmental Consultant
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, often with professional certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science or related field, with certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, project management settingsClient sites, consulting firms, project-based environments
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, government agencies, large corporationsConsulting firms, environmental service companies, private sector
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for leadership roles in environmental projectsCompared for advisory and project execution roles

The Lead Environmental Scientist typically oversees complex projects, manages teams, and provides strategic guidance in environmental research and compliance. Environmental Consultants focus on advising clients, conducting assessments, and implementing solutions. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in scope and work environment.

Is there a demand for lead environmental scientists?

Lead environmental scientists are in demand due to increasing environmental regulations and the need for sustainable practices across industries. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as organizations seek expertise in environmental assessment, remediation, and compliance, often requiring advanced degrees and certifications such as Professional Engineer or Certified Environmental Scientist.

What jobs can a Lead Environmental Scientist lead to?

A Lead Environmental Scientist can advance to roles such as Environmental Manager, Sustainability Director, or Environmental Consultant, often requiring additional leadership skills and certifications like the Professional Environmental Auditor (PEA). They may also move into project management, policy development, or specialized technical positions within environmental consulting firms, government agencies, or corporate sustainability departments.

What cities are hiring for Lead Environmental Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Lead Environmental Scientist job openings:

What states have the most Lead Environmental Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Environmental Scientist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Environmental Scientist jobs?

For Lead Environmental Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lead Environmental Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,722 per year, or $54.2 per hour.

Lead Environmental Scientist/Engineer - Environmental Compliance

Memphis, TN • On-site, Remote

Foth
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Fothexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 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 seeking a strategic, entrepreneurial Lead Environmental Scientist/Engineer to grow our environmental compliance presence in the Southeastern United States. This role will serve as a key leader in expanding our regional footprint while delivering high-quality technical services to industrial clients.

Foth's preference is for a candidate to be based out of our Jacksonville, FL; Memphis, TN; Cullman, AL; or Columbia, SC offices but are open to remote candidates located in Louisianna, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, or Florida.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Leverage existing relationships to uncover new business opportunities to establish and expand Foth's environmental compliance services in the Southeastern U.S. (e.g., Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, the Carolinas)
  • Build and maintain strong client relationships, serving as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact
  • Develop proposals, scopes of work, and pricing strategies to win new projects
  • Provide technical leadership and direction for environmental compliance services in the region
  • Mentor and develop staff supporting Southeast projects; help build and scale a regional team over time
  • Contribute to strategic planning, including market positioning and service line growth
  • Establish best practices and ensure consistency in project delivery and client experience
  • Lead and manage complex, multi-disciplinary environmental compliance projects from initiation through completion
  • Serve as a project manager and client advisor for key accounts
  • Account for state-specific regulatory nuances across Southeastern states
  • Travel within the Southeast to support client development and project execution
  • Support on-site industrial compliance activities and oversee field investigations
  • Represent Foth at industry events and regional associations
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, or a related field
  • 10+ years of environmental consulting experience with industrial clients
  • Demonstrated success in client relationship management
  • Experience leading complex projects and cross functional teams
  • Prior experience with environmental regulations
  • Proven ability to operate independently and build a market presence
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working in Southeastern U.S. regulatory environments
  • Established client network in the Southeastern region
  • Professional Engineer (PE) or similar certification
  • Environmental auditor certification
  • Industry experience in manufacturing or food and beverage
  • Experience with air and water permitting
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.
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