Environmental engineers
๐ค Save CareerEnvironmental engineers play a vital role in the US economy, with 39K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $104,170, with projected growth of 4% through 2034 (As fast as average).
๐ฐ Salary Range
๐ Growth Outlook
moderate โ 4% projected growth๐ค AI Automation Risk
Some tasks may be automated, but human skills remain essential.
๐คAI Impact Deep Dive: Environmental engineers
๐ฌ AI Impact Deep Dive: Environmental engineers
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
๐ฎ Future Outlook
Environmental engineering involves a significant amount of digital knowledge work, including data analysis, system design, and report writing, which are highly susceptible to AI augmentation. However, the role is insulated by the necessity for physical site inspections, regulatory compliance monitoring in the field, and the legal accountability associated with Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
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A Day in the Life
๐Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 4% projected growth and a median salary of $104,170, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires bachelor's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in environmental engineers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
๐Majors & Top Schools
โFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a Environmental engineers make in 2026?โผ
The median salary for a Environmental engineers is $104,170 per year. Entry-level positions start around $62,502, while experienced professionals can earn up to $166,672 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Environmental engineers?โผ
Entry typically requires bachelor's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is bachelor's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Environmental engineers?โผ
Most Environmental engineers positions require bachelor's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Environmental engineers?โผ
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Environmental engineers. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Environmental engineers do on a daily basis?โผ
As a environmental engineer, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Environmental engineers a good career in 2026?โผ
With 4% projected growth and a median salary of $104,170, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 4%, which is declining. The median salary of $104,170 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Environmental engineerss?โผ
Environmental engineers has an AI automation risk score of 60/100 (Moderate). This career faces significant evolution from AI. However, new specialized roles are emerging that combine domain expertise with AI capabilities.
What kind of person makes a good Environmental engineers?โผ
Anyone interested in environmental engineers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Environmental engineers Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Environmental engineers matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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