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Environmental Scientist I Salary in the United States

How much does an Environmental Scientist I make in the United States?

As of November 01, 2026, the average salary for an Environmental Scientist I in the United States is $70,407 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $34.

However, an Environmental Scientist I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $88,211
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $62,846 to $79,726
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $55,963
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Environmental Scientist I Salaries

An Environmental Scientist I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do Environmental Scientist I Salaries Vary from State to State?

Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Environmental Scientist Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $77,955.
  • California: $77,659.
  • Massachusetts: $76,624.

Top Paying Cities for Environmental Scientist Is

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $88,804
  • San Francisco: $87,832
  • Oakland: $85,981

Environmental Scientist I Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Environmental Scientist I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $78,579. While startup companies pay approximate $66,553.

Environmental Scientist I Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $66,553
Growth Stage 51~500 $70,365
Established 501~5000 $75,875
Enterprise 5000+ $78,579

Environmental Scientist I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how an Environmental Scientist I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on November 01, 2026
$62,846
Average $70,407/year
$79,726
$5,237
Average $5,867/month
$6,644
$1,209
Average $1,354/week
$1,533
$30
Average $34/hour
$38
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $79,726 $6,644 $1,533 $38
Average $70,407 $5,867 $1,354 $34
25th Percentile $62,846 $5,237 $1,209 $30

Environmental Scientist I Salary Growth & Career Path

Environmental Scientist I

Next Role

Advancement

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Environmental Scientist I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Pharmacokinetics Scientist II $89,934 28%
Bioinformatics Analyst II $86,039 22%
Biochemist II $77,884 11%
Biophysicist $77,736 10%

Most common benefits for Environmental Scientist I

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Environmental Scientist I

Here are companies hiring for Environmental Scientist I and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Environmental Scientist I

1. Where can an Environmental Scientist I earn the most?

An Environmental Scientist I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, an Environmental Scientist I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of an Environmental Scientist I is $88,804.

2. What is the highest pay for Environmental Scientist I?

The highest pay for Environmental Scientist I is $88,211.

3. What is the lowest pay for Environmental Scientist I?

The lowest pay for Environmental Scientist I is $55,963.

4. What are the responsibilities of Environmental Scientist I?

Responsible for assessing and analyzing the environmental impact of an organization's activities. Plans and executes environmental research to determine environmental impact. May use laboratory tests, statistical software, and applied ecological knowledge to evaluate environmental risks. Prepares reports and makes recommendations to reduce negative effects. Requires a bachelor's degree in environmental science or related field.. Typically reports to a manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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