Washington State offers exceptional environmental science programs from bachelor's through doctoral levels at institutions like the University of Washington, Washington State University, and Evergreen State College. Environmental scientists and specialists in Washington earn a mean annual salary of $94,940 according to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, compared to the national mean of $88,640. The state's commitment to 100% clean energy by 2045 creates expanding career opportunities across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Washington State isn't just talking about environmental action-it's making it happen. The state has concrete legislation transitioning to 100 percent clean energy by 2045 through its Climate Commitment Act and clean energy transformation policies. If you're considering a career in environmental science, Washington combines educational excellence with professional opportunities that directly address climate and environmental challenges.
The state already employs more than 82,800 citizens in the clean energy field, according to a 2018 report from Environmental Entrepreneurs, a number that continues to grow. Major employers like Starbucks and Microsoft have committed to 100% clean energy transitions, creating demand for environmental scientists who can help organizations meet sustainability goals. Whether you're exploring degree options or considering a career change, Washington's environmental science landscape offers clear pathways to meaningful work.
Environmental Science Careers in Washington
Washington's environmental workforce creates opportunities across multiple sectors. Career options span from renewable energy engineering to environmental law and policy, with roles suited to various educational backgrounds and specializations.
Public Sector Opportunities
Environmental efforts in Washington's public sector are overseen primarily by the Department of Ecology, which monitors air and water quality, manages hazardous waste cleanup, and enforces environmental regulations. The Department of Natural Resources manages more than five million acres of land benefiting state institutions, county services, and public schools. These agencies regularly hire environmental scientists and specialists (the Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational category 19-2041), along with related professionals, including park rangers, hydrologists, geoscientists, and conservation specialists.
Nonprofit Sector Roles
The nonprofit sector offers opportunities in research, advocacy, and direct environmental action. Organizations like the Washington Environmental Council, EarthShare Washington, Washington Wild, and the Nature Conservancy need environmental scientists who can conduct field research, analyze data, and translate findings into policy recommendations. The Washington Environmental Council partners with more than 20 environmental groups to form the Environmental Priorities Coalition, advancing key environmental issues in the state legislature annually.
Private Sector Positions
Private sector opportunities expand as companies respond to Washington's clean energy mandates and sustainability commitments. Environmental consulting firms, renewable energy companies, and corporate sustainability departments actively recruit graduates with technical skills and practical experience. The state's technology industry creates opportunities for environmental data scientists who apply computational approaches to climate and environmental modeling.
Job Outlook & Salary in Washington
Environmental scientists and specialists in Washington (BLS occupational code 19-2041) enjoy compensation above the national average. According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, these professionals in Washington earn:
- Mean annual wage: $94,940
- Median annual wage (50th percentile): $88,670
- 25th percentile: $74,460 (typical entry-level with bachelor's degree)
- 75th percentile: $108,650 (experienced professionals)
- 90th percentile: $134,320 (senior specialists with advanced expertise)
- 10th percentile: $61,170 (entry positions, often requiring additional training)
For comparison, the national mean annual wage for environmental scientists and specialists is $88,640 (May 2024), making Washington one of the higher-paying states for this occupation.
Related environmental occupations in Washington include:
- Geoscientists (BLS 19-2042): Study Earth's physical aspects, natural resources, and hazards; comparable salaries to environmental scientists
- Hydrologists (BLS 19-2043): Focus specifically on water resources and quality; similar compensation range
- Biological Scientists (various BLS codes): Work in ecological and environmental contexts; salaries vary by specialization
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% growth for environmental scientists and specialists nationally from 2023 to 2033, which translates to approximately 5,500 job openings annually nationwide. Washington's growth trajectory aligns with or exceeds national projections due to the state's clean energy transition, wildfire prevention initiatives, water resource management needs, and habitat conservation programs. The state's environmental regulations and corporate sustainability commitments ensure sustained demand for qualified professionals through 2034 and beyond.
Skills Developed in Environmental Science Programs
Environmental science programs develop both technical competencies and professional capabilities that employers value across sectors.
Technical Competencies
Core technical skills include data collection and analysis, environmental monitoring techniques, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), statistical analysis, and scientific research methodologies. Students gain hands-on experience with field sampling equipment, laboratory analysis procedures, and environmental assessment protocols used by agencies and consulting firms.
Programs emphasize quantitative skills essential for modern environmental work. Students develop proficiency in statistical software (R, SPSS), data visualization tools, and computational modeling platforms. Many programs integrate programming languages like Python for environmental data analysis, preparing graduates for data-intensive roles in both research and applied settings.
Communication and Collaboration
Communication skills receive significant emphasis in Washington programs. Environmental scientists must translate complex technical findings for diverse audiences, including policymakers, community members, and business leaders. Coursework typically includes scientific writing, presentation development, and stakeholder communication. Some programs offer specialized training in risk communication and environmental toxicology, teaching students how to explain assessment findings to non-technical audiences.
Collaborative project work develops teamwork and project management capabilities. Environmental challenges require interdisciplinary approaches, and Washington programs structure coursework around team-based projects mirroring real-world consulting and agency work. Students coordinate with colleagues from different specializations, manage timelines, and deliver integrated solutions to complex environmental problems.
Washington's Environmental Industry & Employers
Understanding Washington's environmental employment landscape helps prospective students identify career paths and internship opportunities across different sectors.
Government Agencies
Government agencies represent the largest employer category for environmental scientists in Washington. The Department of Ecology employs environmental scientists across offices statewide, focusing on air quality, water resources, hazardous waste cleanup, and environmental assessment. The Department of Natural Resources hires foresters, ecologists, and conservation specialists to manage public lands. County and municipal governments maintain environmental departments addressing local land use planning, water quality protection, and sustainability initiatives.
Environmental Consulting Firms
Environmental consulting firms provide assessment, remediation, and compliance services to public and private clients. Regional firms like Aspect Consulting, Hart Crowser, and Landau Associates employ environmental scientists, geologists, and engineers for environmental site assessments, remediation planning, and regulatory compliance work. These firms offer exposure to diverse projects and opportunities for rapid skill development.
Renewable Energy and Corporate Sustainability
The renewable energy sector continues to expand in Washington. Solar and wind energy companies need environmental scientists for site assessments, wildlife impact studies, and environmental permitting. The state's hydroelectric industry requires ongoing environmental monitoring and habitat restoration expertise. Emerging tidal and wave energy projects create opportunities for marine-focused environmental scientists. Major corporations, including Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks, employ sustainability specialists and environmental analysts to meet climate commitments and manage environmental impacts.
Research and Academic Institutions
Research institutions and universities employ environmental scientists for teaching and research roles. The University of Washington's College of the Environment conducts research in climate science, marine ecology, and environmental policy. Washington State University's programs focus on sustainable agriculture, water resources, and ecosystem management. These institutions offer opportunities for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers to contribute to environmental research while developing academic expertise.
Master's in Environmental Science in Washington
Graduate study allows you to develop specialized expertise and qualify for advanced positions in research, management, and policy roles.
The University of Washington's College of the Environment offers extensive graduate options:
- MS in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences
- MS/Applied MS in Earth and Space Sciences
- MMA in Marine and Environmental Affairs
- MS in Quantitative Ecology and Resource Management
- MS in Atmospheric Sciences
- MEH/MFR/MS in Environmental and Forest Sciences
- MS in Oceanography
These programs benefit from substantial research infrastructure. The college invests more than $162 million annually in research on natural resource management, climate science, ecology, and marine, earth, and space processes. Graduate students access state-of-the-art laboratories, research vessels, field stations, and computational resources. The interdisciplinary structure encourages collaboration across departments.
Washington State University offers focused programs, including an MS in Environmental Science, an MS in Natural Resources Sciences, and an MS in Geology. The interdisciplinary structure provides collaboration opportunities with research units, including the Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Social and Economic Sciences Research Center, the Laboratory for Atmospheric Research, and the State of Washington Water Research Center.
Most master's programs require two years of full-time study, combining coursework with thesis research. Admission typically requires a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related field (biology, chemistry, geology, geography) with minimum GPA requirements ranging from 3.0 to 3.3, depending on program competitiveness. GRE scores may be required or recommended. Funding through research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships helps offset tuition costs for many graduate students.
Bachelor's in Environmental Science in Washington
A bachelor's degree provides the foundation for entry-level environmental science positions and prepares you for graduate study.
Washington State University offers a BS in Earth and Environmental Sciences with major options in Earth Science, Forestry, Environmental and Ecosystem Sciences, and Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Sciences. The School of the Environment provides state-of-the-art laboratories, an on-campus outdoor teaching laboratory, captive wildlife facilities, and a geology museum supporting hands-on learning.
The Evergreen State College takes an interdisciplinary approach with a BA/BS in Environmental Studies featuring specializations in agriculture, ecology, field studies, geology, hydrology, marine science, and natural history. Students can also pursue a BA/BS in Biology and Life Sciences.
Admission typically requires strong high school performance in science and mathematics. Most programs expect applicants to have completed biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics through precalculus or calculus. Minimum GPA requirements typically range from 2.5 to 3.0 for state universities. Competitive applicants often demonstrate environmental engagement through volunteer work, internships, or extracurricular activities related to conservation or sustainability.
Bachelor's programs require four years of full-time study (approximately 120-130 credits). Coursework combines core environmental science classes with supporting courses in chemistry, biology, mathematics, and statistics. Upper-division courses focus on specialized topics like environmental policy, ecosystem ecology, or environmental chemistry. Most programs include field-based learning experiences, laboratory work, and capstone projects, developing practical skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What environmental science degrees are offered in Washington?
Washington universities offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in environmental science and related fields. The University of Washington provides graduate degrees in aquatic sciences, marine affairs, atmospheric sciences, and environmental and forest sciences. Washington State University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in earth and environmental sciences, natural resources, and geology. Evergreen State College specializes in interdisciplinary environmental studies programs with multiple specialization options, including sustainability, marine science, and ecology.
How much do environmental scientists earn in Washington?
According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, environmental scientists and specialists in Washington earn a mean annual salary of $94,940 and a median annual salary of $88,670. Entry-level positions (25th percentile) typically start around $74,460, while experienced professionals (75th percentile) earn $108,650. Senior specialists (90th percentile) with advanced expertise can earn up to $134,320 annually. Washington salaries exceed the national mean of $88,640 due to strong demand and the state's environmental commitments.
What makes Washington a good state for environmental science careers?
Washington combines strong educational programs, above-average salaries, and diverse career opportunities. The state's commitment to 100% clean energy by 2045 through the Climate Commitment Act creates sustained demand for environmental scientists. Employment opportunities span government agencies (Department of Ecology, Department of Natural Resources), environmental consulting firms, renewable energy companies, nonprofits, and corporations with sustainability commitments. Washington's diverse ecosystems provide varied field research opportunities, and progressive environmental policies create meaningful work addressing climate and conservation challenges.
What are the top environmental science programs in Washington?
The University of Washington's College of the Environment is nationally recognized, particularly for marine sciences, atmospheric sciences, and environmental policy, with substantial research funding exceeding $162 million annually. Washington State University excels in natural resources management, sustainable agriculture, and forestry with strong connections to state research centers. Evergreen State College is known for its interdisciplinary approach and experiential learning emphasis. Program selection should consider your specific interests, career goals, preferred learning environment, and specialization options rather than rankings alone.
Is demand for environmental scientists growing in Washington?
Yes. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% national growth for environmental scientists and specialists from 2023 to 2033, creating approximately 5,500 annual job openings nationwide. Washington's growth meets or exceeds national projections due to the state's clean energy transition mandates, wildfire prevention and management needs, water resource challenges, and habitat conservation initiatives. The private sector's increasing focus on corporate sustainability and environmental responsibility creates additional demand beyond traditional government and consulting roles.
Key Takeaways
- Above-Average Compensation: Environmental scientists and specialists in Washington earn a mean salary of $94,940 annually (May 2024 BLS data), exceeding the national mean of $88,640, with entry-level positions starting around $74,460 and experienced professionals earning $108,650 or more.
- Comprehensive Educational Pathways: Washington offers environmental science programs from bachelor's through doctoral levels at the University of Washington, Washington State University, and Evergreen State College, with specializations including marine sciences, atmospheric sciences, sustainable agriculture, and ecology.
- Clean Energy Career Growth: The state's Climate Commitment Act and 100% clean energy goal by 2045 create expanding opportunities across government agencies, renewable energy companies, environmental consulting firms, and corporate sustainability departments.
- Diverse Employment Sectors: Career options span the Department of Ecology, Department of Natural Resources, environmental nonprofits, consulting firms, renewable energy companies, and research institutions, with 6% projected national growth through 2033.
- Practical Skill Development: Programs emphasize technical competencies (GIS, statistical analysis, environmental monitoring), quantitative skills (R, Python, data modeling), and professional capabilities (scientific communication, stakeholder engagement, collaborative project management) that employers value.
Ready to explore environmental science programs in Washington? Discover degree options that align with your interests and career goals in one of the nation's leading states for environmental science education and careers.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job growth figures for Environmental Scientists and Specialists reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2026. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Environmental Scientists and Specialists.
