20 Highest-Paying Environmental Science Jobs in 2024
Did you know that environmental science jobs are expected to grow at a rate of 6% from 2022 to 2023? The scope of employment in this field is expanding because of its application in a wide range of domains like pollution control, food processing units, water supply, and more. The job roles in these fields demand high-level specialization and expertise and offer high remuneration.
If you want to make a difference in the world and earn a competitive salary then you should consider a career in environmental science. In this blog, we will discuss the top highest-paying environmental science jobs along with their key responsibilities, companies hiring, and salary range to help you embark on a successful professional journey.
Highest-Paid Environmental Science Jobs
Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field that integrates concepts from biology, geography, meteorology, mathematics, and physics. It aims to study and address the environmental challenges. You will find a plethora of work opportunities in this domain. Here are some of the highest-paid environmental science jobs that you can apply for:
1. Environmental Conservation Scientist
These professionals study ecosystems to analyze human impact on the environment and devise relevant solutions to protect them. You need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and should be well-versed in concepts of ecology, botany, and biology to apply for this high-paying environmental science job. Since this role requires one to conduct thorough research, you should also have a strong understanding of statistics and mathematics.
Key Responsibilities
The key responsibilities of environmental conservation scientists are:
- Analyzing damages to ecosystems, such as the impact of fires and logging on forest lands
- Preparing management plans for parks, agricultural lands, forests, and natural resources
- Preserving and protecting natural wildlife habitats by tackling challenges like reduction in biodiversity, habitat loss, and low reproduction rates
- Advising government, landowners, farmers, etc about proper land use, sustainability efforts, fire hazards, and ethical farming
- Evaluating data on soil quality and forests to make suggestions about erosion control
- Supervising conservation activities to ensure compliance with government rules and regulations
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)
- Adani Green Energy Limited
- ONGC
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹10 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹25 LPA
2. Sustainability Engineer
Sustainability engineering is one of the best-paying jobs in environmental science. Sustainability engineers create innovative and efficient solutions to solve environmental problems. They analyze the environmental impact of projects and develop strategies to reduce resource consumption.
If you want to excel in the role of a sustainability engineer, you require a strong understanding of environmental regulations and sustainability principles. You will also require proficiency in relevant techniques like EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment), ERA (Ecological Risk Assessment), and LCA (Life Cycle Assessment).
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of a sustainability engineer:
- Formulating sustainable engineering strategies to reduce emissions and waste and increase the use of renewable resources
- Managing the entire life cycle of the sustainability projects from ideation to completion to achieve objectives
- Conducting environmental impact assessments to estimate the consequences of a proposed policy or project
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- AECOM
- EY
- KPMG
- McDermott
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹13.5 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹25 LPA
3. Environmental Consultant
The environmental consultants provide assessment and advisory services to organizations on environmental matters. They analyze data and provide recommendations for managing and mitigating environmental risks.
To secure a job in this field, you will need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field. You should also have considerable experience in conducting environmental assessments and audits.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of environmental consultants:
- Conducting field surveys to collect information about pollution or contamination levels on a site
- Preparing reports and presenting findings to stakeholders to provide apt information
- Developing conceptual models to identify potential contamination on a given site
- Analyzing the suitability of new development projects related to power stations, housing, etc.
- Advising on environmental safety of employees in organizations
- Establishing basic training sessions and policies for employees
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- ERM
- AECOM
- WSP Global Inc.
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹7.6 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹16 LPA
4. Geologist
Geologists or geoscientists analyze rocks, minerals, and other geological materials to understand the natural processes of the earth. As a geologist, you may find work opportunities in industries like environmental consulting, academia, oil and gas exploration, mining, etc.
If you are seeking to pursue a geologist job you need to pursue a bachelor’s degree in earth sciences, geology, or other relevant field. Additionally, you should have proficiency in geospatial analysis and geological modeling software.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of geologists:
- Gathering and analyzing geological data from fossils, rocks, ores, soil, etc.
- Planning projects like water pipe construction and oil extraction
- Surveying sites to create logs and maps using GIS (Geographic Information System)
- Coordinating research programs to examine the composition of specimens and samples
- Providing consultation on issues, like resource management, waste management, and gas extraction techniques
- Assessing natural resource deposits to plan extraction projects accordingly
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Oil and Natural Gas
- Shell
- SLB
- Reliance Industries
- Vedanta Resources
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹11.5 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹16 LPA
5. Environmental Analyst
Environmental analysts study the environment and its impact on human well-being. They also research the reciprocal effects of human activities on the environment. These top-paying environmental science jobs require a deep understanding of the interplay between environmental factors and human health.
To excel in this role, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree and proficiency in data collection and analysis techniques. Additionally, you should be familiar with environmental regulations and monitoring protocols.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of environmental analysts:
- Gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data related to the environment and variables that impact it
- Creating research methodologies to conduct fieldwork and collect data
- Collecting and testing samples with the help of specialized equipment to gain valuable insights
- Assisting government agencies and institutions in designing policies to protect the environment
- Consulting with business management to resume the environmental impacts of development projects
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Thiess
- Trove Research
- ACOEM
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹6 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹11 LPA
6. Marine Biologist
Marine biologists study marine ecosystems and organisms. They research marine life, biodiversity, and the impact of human activities on related ecosystems. They dedicate their careers to researching and studying marine life, biodiversity, and the impact of human activities on these vital ecosystems. They delve into the complexities of marine ecosystems to gain expertise in species identification and develop a deep understanding of oceanography.
To pursue a career in marine biology, you need a bachelor’s degree in ecology, marine biology, or a related field.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of a marine biologist:
- Gathering and analyzing samples to develop new theories post-research
- Testing marine organisms exposed to pollutants to devise relevant solutions
- Determining the health of the marine environment with coring techniques, visual recording, and geographic information systems (GIS)
- Analyzing the effect of human activities on marine ecosystems to develop prevention and preservation methods
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Aquabeats
- CSIR – Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute
- Mangrove Foundation
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹13 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹17 LPA
7. Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers use integrated knowledge of science, biology, engineering, and chemistry to create effective solutions to solve environmental challenges. These issues may include pollution, waste disposal, public health, and recycling.
If you want to pursue this job role you require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering with a specialization in environmental science. Further, you should also possess knowledge of environmental regulations, compliance standards, modeling software, and assessment tools.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of environmental engineers:
- Preparing system and component designs that reduce negative impact on the environment
- Researching and assessing the environmental impact of projects and performing control checks to minimize risks
- Providing technical evaluation and relevant advice on environmental policies for informed-decision making
- Addressing problems and devising solutions to minimize environmental damage
- Keeping track of progress and documenting information in reports for future reference
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Tata Steel
- TCS
- Larsen & Toubro
- WM
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹5 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹10 LPA
8. Arborist
Arborists specialize in taking care of trees and providing them with treatment. They assess the health, safety, and environmental impact of trees and recommend methods to maintain, preserve, or remove them.
To pursue a career as an arborist, you should have a degree or relevant certification in horticulture, agronomy, or forestry. You also require knowledge of working power tools and safety equipment to excel in this role.
Key Responsibilities
The key responsibilities of arborists are:
- Meeting with clients to discuss their landscaping requirements
- Analyzing soil and space needs for new trees
- Identifying and treating tree diseases
- Pruning trees and removing dead trees
- Applying pesticides and fertilizers according to the requirement
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Asia Tree Preservation Ltd.
- Kesari Infrabuild Private
- Tree Care India
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹5 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹10 LPA
9. Environmental Lawyer
Environmental lawyers have some of the highest-paying jobs in environmental science. The professionals in this domain handle issues related to conservation, sustainability, environmental protection, etc. They provide legal counsel to individuals, organizations, and government agencies on matters, such as environmental regulations, litigation, and more.
To pursue a job in this domain you require a law degree with a specialization in environmental law. Additionally, you should also have proficient analytical and research skills.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of environmental lawyers:
- Representing clients in legal issues, such as water law, climate change, clean technology, land management, etc.
- Research precedents, literature reviews, sample findings, etc.
- Preparing legal documents and gathering evidence necessary for the case
- Advocating for development and sustainability in environmental policy and law
- Determining if prosecution of offenders is in the public interest
- Participating in pre-trial negotiations and sessions to represent the client
- Analyze available information to assess the current situation and potential resolutions
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Khaitan & Co.
- KSK
- LIFE India
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹19 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹24 LPA
10. Urban Planners
Urban planners develop plans for creating sustainable, functional, and aesthetic urban environments. These professionals assess factors like transportation, environmental sustainability, housing, and population growth for urban planning.
This role demands individuals who are creative, well-versed in public policy, and possess good problem-solving skills. To pursue this job role you should have a bachelor’s and master’s degree in urban planning, environmental science, architecture, geography, or related field.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of urban planners:
- Investigating sites to identify factors affecting community development and potential decline in land usage
- Utilizing best practices to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions
- Recommending solutions to manage traffic growth and address transportation needs
- Planning and designing cities and townships to promote healthy and sustainable lifestyles
- Supervising project development to ensure compliance with regulations and timely completion of work
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- WSP
- IPE Global
- Tata Consulting Engineers
- Larsen & Toubro
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹6 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹11 LPA
11. Environmental Technician
Environmental technicians support environmental scientists, engineers, and other professionals in tasks related to environmental analysis, monitoring, and sampling. They work in laboratories, industrial facilities, or on-site settings. They assist with compliance monitoring, data collection, and instrumentation procedures.
If you want to become an environmental technician you should pursue a bachelor’s degree or relevant certification in environmental science, chemistry, or biology. Additionally, you should also enhance your organizational skills and analytical skills to perform well in this role.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of environmental technicians:
- Collecting data through the application of engineering, meteorology, agriculture, and chemistry principles
- Analyzing the level of pollutants in samples of gas, liquid, and solid materials
- Maintaining a database with reports, findings, and summaries of related briefings for reference purposes
- Complying with legal standards, methods, and procedures of waste management
- Maintaining inventory to ensure the availability of supplies and equipment for conducting tests
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Pollution Control Board
- Ensys Technologies
- iCRC
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹10.8 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹21.6 LPA
12. Energy Managers
Energy managers plan, maintain, and supervise the energy use in an organization. Their role is to enhance efficiency through the introduction of new policies on the use of energy.
If you understand the workings of electricity, electric appliances, energy usage, and repairs, this is the ideal job for you. To pursue this job you would require a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or mechanical engineering.
Key Responsibilities
Here are the key responsibilities of energy managers:
- Creating and implementing strategies to reduce energy consumption, carbon management, and energy purchase
- Conducting on-site inspections and energy surveys to determine the current energy consumption levels
- Offering training and advice on energy efficiency
- Promoting energy conservation and related schemes in an organization
- Negotiating with contractors and other third-party entities to gain competitive pricing for energy purchase and supply
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Schneider Electric
- Johnson Controls
- ICF
- Accenture
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹9 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹20 LPA
13. Environmental Health and Safety Officer
Environmental health and safety (EH&S) officers are responsible for keeping the environment and its people safe from environmental and occupational dangers. They supervise big machinery, the environment, and processes to make sure businesses and people abide by laws, rules, and safety precautions.
To pursue this high-paying environmental job you require a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field.
Key Responsibilities
Here are the key responsibilities of an environmental health and safety officer:
- Recommending policy changes to protect the employees and the environment
- Assessing daily business operations for potential hazards
- Collecting samples of biological, radiological, and chemical materials for testing and producing valuable insights
- Investigating accidents to identify causes and provide a solution accordingly
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- CBRE
- Siemens
- JSW Steel
- Saipem
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹7 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹15 LPA
14. Hydrologist
Hydrologists research rivers, ice formation, snow and rainfall patterns, and groundwater systems. They analyze data to forecast droughts and floods and provide solutions to minimize damage. They also test water samples for pollution and guide organizations on sustainable practices and ethical waste management.
If you want to pursue a job in this field you should get a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, civil engineering, or chemistry. You can also pursue a postgraduate degree or specialization in this field to apply for more top-paying jobs in environmental science.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of hydrologists:
- Collecting water and soil samples to study water properties and determine flow, volume, and pH levels
- Assessing dams, hydroelectric power plants, and other water projects to check pollution levels
- Identifying methods of water management, conservation, and maintenance
- Preparing written reports based on research and presenting findings to stakeholders
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- WWF – India
- Tamil Nadu Water Investment Company
- Statkraft
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹14.5 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹20 LPA
15. Environmental Manager
Environmental managers develop and implement environment-related management systems in organizations. They also determine, resolve, and handle issues related to waste treatment, pollution, contamination, and more.
To become an environmental manager, you need a degree in environmental science, geography, physics, or related field. You should also have good leadership skills and strong business communication abilities to adapt well to this job role.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of an environmental manager:
- Creating and implementing environmental frameworks, practices, and policies
- Developing strategies to meet objectives and encouraging best practices
- Ensuring compliance with environmental standards and rules
- Evaluating environmental performance data and reporting information to the company’s internal staff, regulatory bodies, and clients
- Auditing environmental practices of organizations to prevent crimes like fly-tipping or illegal waste dumping
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Tata Steel
- KPMG
- AECOM
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹12.6 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹25 LPA
16. Zoologist or Wildlife Biologist
Zoologists and wildlife biologists who research animals in captivity or their natural habitat. They collect and study wildlife data to analyze the impact of human activity on various habitats. These professionals also create breeding programs in an attempt to conserve endangered species.
To pursue a career in this field you require a bachelor’s degree in zoology or a relevant field. However, for research job roles, you may need a post-graduation degree or advanced diploma in a relevant subject.
Key Responsibilities
Here are the key responsibilities of zoologists or wildlife biologists:
- Conducting experimental studies with animals in their natural or controlled surroundings
- Researching different characteristics of animals like diseases, movement patterns, reproduction, etc.
- Monitoring and managing wildlife populations and invasive species
- Developing conservation plans for wildlife management and protection from human activities
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Wildlife Institute of India
- Botanical Survey of India
- Bombay Natural History Society
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹10 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹18.5 LPA
17. Ecological Specialist
Ecological specialists research the impact of groups of people on the environment. Their role is to determine persisting environmental issues and suggest action plans to control the effects of human activities on the ecological setting.
To secure a job in this field you require a degree in biology or environmental science. You should also be proficient in identifying different species, using statistics, and report writing to adapt well to this role.
Key Responsibilities
Here are the key responsibilities of ecological specialists:
- Collecting biological information of different species through field surveys
- Using survey techniques like Global Positioning Systems (GPS), aerial photography, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to collect samples
- Undertaking environmental impact assessments and providing solutions for habitat management
- Keeping updated with the latest environmental policies and laws to implement them strategically in recommendations and solutions
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- WWF – India
- AiDash
- Arcadis
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹9.6 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹15 LPA
18. Agronomist
Agronomists are responsible for evaluating the health of the soil and devising strategies to improve crop yields. They do so by researching the properties of soil, fertilizers, and other compounds. These professionals design farming technologies to enhance productivity and increase the yield of crops.
To pursue a job in this field you require a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, agriculture, chemistry, or biology.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of agronomists:
- Testing soil, crop, and seed samples in the laboratory to find meaningful insights
- Evaluate crop production on the farm and suggest strategies related to planning, cultivation, and harvesting techniques
- Checking samples for diseases, nutritional deficiencies, and other issues
- Preparing planting and irrigation budgets and schedules
- Keeping records of crops, samples, clients, and fields for further reference
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Syngenta
- UPL Ltd.
- DS Group
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹5.2 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹10 LPA
19. Meteorologist
Meteorologists gather and examine atmospheric data to identify trends and predict weather forecasts. They assess radar information, satellite data, and maps to comprehend weather. Additionally, they use the insights gathered from all the data to suggest methods to improve the climate and minimize its adverse effects on humans.
To secure a job in this field you require a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, geography, or physics. However, if you want to pursue research work you would need a master’s degree.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of meteorologists:
- Analyzing factors, such as temperature, air pressure, and humidity at different atmospheric levels
- Collecting information from remote sensors, weather stations, radar, and satellite images from different locations
- Monitoring climate variability and change to draw inferences.
- Forecasting weather conditions with the help of mathematical principles and computer models
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Indian Meteorological Department
- REConnect Energy Solutions
- Indian Navy
- Blue Power Partners
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹6.8 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹12 LPA
20. Microbiologist
Microbiologists study microscopic organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, algae, and fungi to analyze their influence on the environment. They often work in labs researching microorganisms to discover further their ability to survive and flourish in their surroundings.
To pursue a job in microbiology you will require a degree in environmental science or biology. Additionally, you should have keen observation skills to infer patterns during experiments to become a microbiologist.
Key Responsibilities
The following are the key responsibilities of a microbiologist:
- Performing laboratory experiments and evaluating the accuracy of the results
- Classifying microorganisms found in samples for further analysis or reference
- Researching new findings in the field and staying updated
- Monitoring the effects of microorganisms on plants, animals, and the environment
- Publishing research papers and presenting findings to other professionals or even to the public
Top Companies Hiring
Here are the top companies hiring for this role:
- Cipla
- Biocon
- Dr. Reddy’s
- Procter & Gamble
Salary Range
- Average Salary: ₹8 LPA
- Highest Salary: ₹12 LPA
Conclusion
In today’s world, organizations are increasingly looking for individuals who can make a meaningful impact on environmental protection and sustainable development. With the growing concerns around pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, and natural resource depletion, there is a high demand for professionals in environmental science. By exploring the highest-paying environmental science jobs, you have the chance to align your interests, skills, and qualifications with a career that not only benefits you but also contributes to a better future for our planet. Take the opportunity to make a well-informed career choice and add value to the world around you. If you want to explore other career opportunities in the science stream as well, check out the best jobs for science students in a comprehensive guide.
FAQs
Answer: The highest-paying environmental science jobs in India are:
– Sustainability engineering
– Environmental management
– Urban planning
– Meteorology
– Wildlife biology
Answer: Yes, there is a high demand for environmental scientists. According to a recent study, there will be more than 6000 vacancies on average per year from 2022 to 2032.
Answer: Yes, environmental science is a good career option. It provides you an opportunity to pursue top-tier career prospects and earn a lucrative salary while making a positive impact on the environment.
Answer: The salary of an MSc environmental scientist ranges from ₹5 LPA to ₹10 LPA for entry-level jobs whereas an experienced professional can earn up to ₹15 LPA.
