Protecting the environment continues to be an important function of both private industry and local, state and federal governments. A knowledgeable environmental project manager combines organizational management skills with expertise on environmental issues and regulations to help businesses prevent or repair damage to the land, air and water. A rewarding career as an environmental project manager can begin by enrolling in the online Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Project Management program from Florida Institute of Technology.
Environmental Project Manager Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts employment of natural sciences managers will increase by 8% between 2023 and 2033. BLS projects project management specialist job growth will be 7% over the same period. These growth rates are faster than the national average for all occupations.
The role of environmental project manager could fall under both occupational categories. As such, employment in the field will likely grow steadily in the coming years. Job prospects should be favorable as the environmental sciences sector continues its rapid growth and environmental solutions projects ramp up. Job seekers with strong business management skills, education, experience and leadership qualities should have an advantage.
Environmental Project Manager Job Duties
The environmental project manager (PM) is responsible for various duties throughout the workday. Typically, they oversee activities and interactions with environmental regulatory agencies. Specific duties depend on the industry. For example, when employed by a contractor, the environmental PM manages permitting, compliance and mitigation related to construction projects. Working for an environmental consulting firm might entail monitoring well drillers, utility locators or refinery workers.
Specific tasks of an environmental project manager might include preparing reports and work plans; performing site investigations; and collecting, processing and evaluating data. These management professionals establish project needs and monitor work progress to ensure final deliverables adhere to requirements. They often work with subcontractors during the scope of a project to ensure compliance with the plan. Negotiating changes to the scope of work is another vital function of the environmental PM.
Additional environmental project manager duties include interpreting permits and other environmental documents and developing compliance assurance plans and inspection procedures. They often have expertise regarding permits and regulations; submitting documents properly is vital to obtaining project approval.
Environmental PMs consult with internal and external scientists, engineers and regulators to plan projects. Other daily job duties might include preparing project proposals and budgets, directing necessary research, communicating with management regarding project status and key performance indicators, and hiring necessary staff to meet specified project time frames.
An environmental project manager typically works from an office. However, they may spend extensive time in the field, on-site. Environmental project managers may also work in a self-employed capacity as independent consultants. A 40-hour week is standard. Jobs may require travel to remote offices, vendor locations or production faculties.
Environmental Project Manager Salary Potential
According to ZipRecruiter data, as of March 2025, environmental project managers earned an average salary of $87,607 per year. Those in the 25th to 75th percentile earned between $69,500 and $101,000 annually.
Top salaries generally go to those with advanced education, experience and current expertise. Employers need their environmental PMs to stay on top of regulatory and technological change to remain compliant with the law, maximize operational efficiencies, and maintain a competitive edge amidst rapid change and uncertainty in the market.
Education and Training for Environmental PMs
BLS notes that project management specialist positions typically require a bachelor’s degree, which is true for many environmental project manager jobs. However, some employers may look for extensive experience or advanced education. Many top employers seek business skills as well, leading them to prefer candidates with a master’s degree.
Management professionals seeking to expand their careers and apply for top-level environmental project manager positions can prepare by enrolling in an MBA program with a concentration in project management. In addition to core business management courses, specialization coursework in Florida Tech’s online MBA in Project Management program covers subjects like strategic project management, applied project management, project tools and techniques, and mastering project management. Employers can be confident that professionals equipped with an MBA in project management are able to do the following:
- apply a process-based approach to achieving organizational goals
- determine the appropriate tools and techniques for each phase of the project management lifecycle
- plan and manage projects from development to closing
- strategize and implement at the corporate level
- leverage advanced knowledge and skills to succeed as an environmental project manager
Considering an Environmental Project Manager Career?
Great communication skills, a professional manner and multi-tasking ability are three necessary attributes to be a successful environmental project manager. In addition, leadership skills, attention to detail and strong business knowledge will serve professionals well.
Those who see themselves excelling in this in-demand career should consider enrolling in Florida Tech’s online MBA in Project Management program. The degree program improves one’s chances of landing a great job and boosts a PM manager’s earnings potential.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online MBA in Project Management program.
