Environmental Engineer Salary Guide
Environmental Engineers apply engineering principles to protect and improve environmental quality. They design systems and processes for pollution control, waste management, remediation, regulatory compliance, and sustainability projects across water, air, and soil domains, often collaborating with scientists, regulators, and stakeholders.
What is the average Environmental Engineer salary?
Entry Level
$55,000 - $75,000
Mid Level
$75,000 - $100,000
Senior Level
$100,000 - $140,000
How does Environmental Engineer salary grow with experience?
Environmental Engineer salary by location
What factors affect a Environmental Engineer's salary?
- Geographic location and local cost of living
- Industry sector (consulting, energy, government, manufacturing)
- Certifications and licenses (PE, CIH, PMP)
- Specialized technical skills (remediation, air quality modeling, hydrogeology)
- Project scale, security/clearance needs, and managerial responsibility
Frequently Asked Questions About Environmental Engineer Salaries
What is the average salary for an Environmental Engineer?
The average compensation varies by level: entry-level typically ranges $55,000–$75,000, mid-level $75,000–$100,000, and senior roles $100,000–$140,000 annually in the U.S.
Which factors most affect Environmental Engineer pay?
Key drivers include geographic location, years of experience, industry (private sector, consulting, government, energy), specialized skills or certifications (PE, PMP), and project funding or clearance requirements.
Do Environmental Engineers need a PE license to earn more?
A Professional Engineer (PE) license often increases earning potential, particularly for senior roles, consulting positions, and responsibilities involving permits, signing plans, or regulatory testimony.
How does industry sector change Environmental Engineer salaries?
Private sector and energy/industrial firms generally pay more than government or non-profit roles; consulting pay varies with client mix and billable rates.
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