The 10 Best Environmental Jobs

Environmental careers are increasingly vital as we transition towards a sustainable future, focusing on renewable energy, conservation, and innovative engineering solutions to address pressing environmental challenges. As the world embraces a global green economy aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the demand for skilled professionals in this sector continues to grow.

With the urgency of climate action and sustainability, many individuals are eager to contribute to this movement. Here are the 10 best environmental jobs to consider in 2026:

Key Takeaways:

• The top three environmental jobs are Conservation Scientist Officer, Wind Turbine Technician, and Marine Biologist.

• Environmental careers are experiencing significant growth, with estimates suggesting that transitioning to a greener economy could generate millions of jobs globally.

• Many environmental roles require expertise in science and engineering, but varied backgrounds can also be advantageous.

• Opportunities are available across multiple sectors, including private enterprises, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

The 10 Best Environmental Jobs

1. Conservation Scientist Officer

   Average Annual Salary: $58,000

   Conservation scientists play a crucial role in managing and protecting natural resources. Often associated with forests and national parks, they establish regulations for land use, logging, and fire prevention to ensure ecosystems remain healthy and resilient.

   Responsibilities may include forest management, habitat restoration, and ecological monitoring to support biodiversity.

   Job requirements: A bachelor’s degree in biology, forestry, or a related field is essential. Most conservation scientists work for government agencies or environmental organizations.

   Find Conservation Scientist jobs near me

2. Wind Turbine Technician

   Average Annual Salary: $41,000

   As the demand for renewable energy surges, wind turbine technicians are essential for installing and maintaining wind turbines, both onshore and offshore.

   Job requirements: Many positions require certification from technical schools or community colleges, which provide relevant training without needing a four-year degree.

   Find Wind Turbine Technician jobs near me

3. Marine Biologist

   Average Annual Salary: $61,000

   Marine biologists study ocean ecosystems, focusing on species behavior, conservation practices, and the impacts of human activity on marine life.

   They often work with government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions to develop policies and educate the public on marine conservation.

   Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in marine biology or a related field is required, with a master’s or Ph.D. beneficial for advanced research roles.

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4. Hydrologist

   Average Annual Salary: $87,000

   Hydrologists focus on water resources, studying the movement and distribution of water across the planet and ensuring its quality and availability.

   They collaborate with various sectors to create policies for water management and protect vital ecosystems.

   Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in hydrology or a related field is necessary, with advanced degrees preferred for research and specialized positions.

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5. Environmental Engineer

   Average Annual Salary: $66,000

   Environmental engineers design systems to manage waste and pollution, ensuring that air, water, and land are safe for communities.

   They assess environmental impacts and develop innovative solutions to enhance sustainability.

   Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field is required, along with relevant work experience.

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6. Agricultural and Food Scientist

   Average Annual Salary: $57,000

   Food scientists work to improve food production and safety, focusing on agricultural practices, processing, and sustainability.

   They can work independently, in large corporations, or within government agencies to ensure quality standards are upheld.

   Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in agricultural science or a related field is needed, with advanced degrees for research roles.

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7. Urban Planner

   Average Annual Salary: $57,000

   Urban planners develop land use plans to create sustainable communities, considering environmental, social, and economic factors.

   They help manage urban growth and ensure that infrastructure is designed to support eco-friendly initiatives.

   Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in urban planning or a related field is required, with a master’s degree preferred for advancement.

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8. Zoologist

   Average Annual Salary: $67,000

   Zoologists study animal behavior and ecosystems, working to conserve endangered species and their habitats.

   They often collaborate with conservation organizations and research institutions to inform policy and promote biodiversity.

   Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in zoology or a related field is usually required, with advanced degrees beneficial for research roles.

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9. Meteorologist

   Average Annual Salary: $52,000

   Meteorologists analyze weather patterns to provide forecasts and assess climate impacts, contributing to public safety and environmental awareness.

   While many work in media, others are employed by government agencies and private companies.

   Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in meteorology is necessary, with advanced degrees for research positions.

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10. Geoscientist

    Average Annual Salary: $99,000

    Geoscientists study Earth’s processes and materials to better understand natural resources and environmental challenges.

    They may conduct field research or work in labs, providing crucial data for energy and resource management.

    Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in geoscience or a related field is typically required, with many positions preferring a master’s degree.

    Find Geoscientist jobs near me

Exploring Environmental Careers

Environmental careers are flourishing as more people seek meaningful work that contributes to sustainability and ecological health. Roles in environmental science and engineering typically require a bachelor’s degree, but many positions in alternative energy may only necessitate an associate degree or relevant experience. Advocacy roles can also be an excellent fit for those with backgrounds in communications, policy, or journalism.

Here are some descriptions of different environmental careers:

• Alternative Energy Jobs. With the push for renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, jobs in this sector are growing rapidly, outpacing traditional job markets.

• Environmental Science Jobs. If you have a scientific background and are passionate about protecting ecosystems and reducing pollution, consider a career in environmental science.

• Sustainable Agriculture Jobs. This field focuses on optimizing food production while minimizing environmental impact, ideal for those with a biology background.

• Atmospheric and Earth Science Jobs. These roles encompass various specialties, including meteorology and geology, focusing on climate change and environmental monitoring.

Green Jobs by Sector

Environmental jobs are available across private, nonprofit, and public sectors. In the private sector, the emphasis is on developing sustainable solutions for clients. Government professionals typically enforce environmental regulations and monitor ecosystem health, while nonprofits advocate for conservation and sustainable policies.

Public Sector Environmental Careers

Green jobs in government span local, state, and federal levels, offering opportunities for scientists, engineers, and policy experts focused on research, design, and implementation.

Key public employers include:

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA protects human health and the environment and offers roles for toxicologists, engineers, and policy advisors.

• National Park Service (NPS). The NPS manages national parks and employs ecologists, geologists, and conservationists.

• U.S. Forest Service. This agency sustains the health and diversity of public forests and grasslands, hiring professionals in ecology and resource management.

• U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The USGS studies climate change and environmental hazards, employing scientists across various disciplines.

• Local and State Government. Many state and local agencies focus on environmental health and resource management, hiring professionals in ecology, agriculture, and wildlife.

Private Sector Environmental Careers

Expect significant growth in roles for wind turbine technicians and solar photovoltaic installers as the demand for renewable energy continues to rise. Private companies are actively seeking engineers and environmental specialists.

Notable private employers include:

• AECOM. This engineering firm addresses large-scale environmental challenges, including city planning and ecological restoration.

• Tetra Tech, Inc. This consulting firm provides solutions for water, energy, and infrastructure through engineering and management services.

• Jacobs. Known for its technical and professional services, Jacobs uses data analytics to address climate change and urbanization issues.

• Environmental Resources Management (ERM). ERM focuses on sustainability consulting, offering services to help organizations manage their environmental impact.

• HDR, Inc. HDR specializes in engineering and environmental services, working on projects globally to enhance sustainability.

Nonprofit Environmental Careers

For those passionate about advocacy, nonprofit organizations such as Greenpeace and the World Wildlife Fund offer opportunities to promote environmental policies and conservation initiatives. Key nonprofits in this field include:

• World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The WWF is a leading conservation organization focused on reducing human impact on the environment.

• Nature Conservancy. This organization works to conserve lands and waters vital to biodiversity and sustainability.

• Sierra Club. With a long history of environmental advocacy, the Sierra Club focuses on promoting conservation and sustainable practices.

• National Audubon Society. Dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats, Audubon emphasizes education and advocacy.

• National Wildlife Federation (NWF). The NWF is committed to protecting wildlife and their habitats through education and advocacy efforts.

Environmental Jobs FAQ

1. Are environmental jobs hard to get?

   Environmental jobs can be competitive and often require specialized education and experience. Typically, a bachelor’s degree or higher is necessary to secure a position in this field.

2. How do I start a career with an environmental job?

   To begin a career in the environmental field, select a specialization and obtain a relevant bachelor’s degree. This foundational education will prepare you for further studies or entry-level positions in your chosen area.

References

1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Wind Turbine Technician Occupational Outlook

2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Environmental Engineer Occupational Outlook

Author

Caitlin Mazur

Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.