Across the world, many of the most vulnerable communities face a disturbing reality of scarce resources, escalating climate disasters, and unchecked exploitation. These interconnected crises strain our environment and also infringe on basic human rights, hitting marginalized communities the hardest. From the impact of extreme weather events to the loss of essential resources, these issues underscore a profound environmental injustice that disproportionately affects those who lack the resources or influence to overcome these challenges without outside assistance.
If you value equity, resilience and the right to a healthy environment for all, consider entering a career in environmental justice. In this field, you’ll help ensure that everyone — regardless of background or circumstance — can enjoy the basic resources and protections they need to thrive. It’s a chance to make a real difference in building a fairer, more sustainable world.
What Is Environmental Justice?
Environmental justice first emerged in the early 1980s in the United States. While Latin American and Black communities had protested against environmental threats and unsafe working and living conditions for decades, it was the protests against a toxic landfill in Warren County, North Carolina that brought national attention.
Despite local protests — which included civil disobedience resulting in the arrest of hundreds of activists — thousands of tons of PCB-contaminated soil were dumped in a landfill near a small African-American community. The resulting outrage sparked more protests, organizations and studies. One landmark study from the United Church of Christ, Toxic Wastes and Race in the United States (1987), found a disturbing trend: the racial makeup of communities — particularly Black and Hispanic populations — was the most significant factor in the location of hazardous waste facilities.
Those studies showed that environmental threats are not evenly distributed, and it is the most socially vulnerable that frequently contend with the greatest environmental threats. Ongoing environmental issues, such as air and water pollution, and looming threats such as climate disasters are most likely to affect individuals from underprivileged socioeconomic backgrounds, especially racial and ethnic minority populations.
Over the past several decades, the impact of environmental injustice resulted in action by the U.S. federal government and the forming of grassroots and nonprofit organizations. The United Nations Development Program defines environmental justice in its 2014 report, Environmental Justice – Comparative Experiences in Legal Empowerment:
“[Environmental justice is] a mechanism of accountability for the protection of rights and the prevention and punishment of wrongs related to the disproportionate impacts of growth on the poor and vulnerable in society.”
Environmental justice bridges the needs of the natural world with the socio-cultural world, from housing and job opportunities to access to education and health care. True environmental justice means that everyone — regardless of race, income or background — has a voice and is considered in the creation of environmental laws and policies.
What Are the Top Careers in Environmental Justice?
Environmental justice is an interdisciplinary field that aligns with many of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Accordingly, you can find jobs that work toward environmental justice across many fields, including law, political science, economics, public health, urban geography, geoscience and the social sciences (e.g., anthropology, sociology, cultural geography).
Some of the fields with the most career opportunities in environmental activism and justice include:
- Not-for-profits: Nonprofit organizations advocate for environmental justice by raising awareness, providing resources to vulnerable communities and mobilizing grassroots efforts to address local and global environmental inequities.
- Development: Development professionals work to create sustainable infrastructure and policies that promote equitable access to resources, aiming to reduce environmental burdens on marginalized communities.
- Conservation and Environmental Planning: Conservationists and environmental planners help protect natural resources while ensuring that land use policies and conservation efforts support and benefit all communities, particularly those most impacted by environmental hazards.
- Ecological Restoration: Ecological restoration projects repair damaged ecosystems, often in areas where disadvantaged communities are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation, thereby improving community health and resilience.
- Environmental Management: Environmental managers oversee the sustainable use of resources and help mitigate pollution, ensuring that industrial and public sector practices do not unfairly impact vulnerable communities.
- Environmental Law: Environmental lawyers advocate for stronger regulations and fair enforcement to protect vulnerable populations from environmental harm, seeking legal accountability for violations that disproportionately affect marginalized groups.
- Health Care: Health professionals address the health impacts of environmental hazards on underserved communities, promoting policies and practices that mitigate pollution-related illnesses and improve community health outcomes.
- Community Development: Community developers work to improve social and economic conditions through equitable access to clean water, green spaces and safe housing, aiming to reduce environmental burdens and empower local populations.
What Are the Top Jobs in Environmental Justice?
Looking at job postings on general job sites such as Indeed and specialized pages including Human Rights Careers, these are 12 of the most in-demand jobs that support environmental justice.
- Sustainability Manager Develops and implements strategies to reduce an organization’s environmental impact, focusing on resource efficiency, waste reduction and sustainable practices. They ensure compliance with environmental regulations, set sustainability goals and engage stakeholders to promote a culture of environmental responsibility and social equity within their organization.
- Estimated salary: $83,000-$151,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, sustainability, environmental engineering, business administration or a related area. A graduate degree in a field related to sustainable development, public policy or environmental engineering. Also, certifications from organizations such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), ISSP (International Society of Sustainability Professionals) and GRI (Global Reporting Initiative).
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: State and federal government agencies, manufacturing companies, environmental and social justice nonprofits, higher education institutions, healthcare organizations, construction firms, energy and utility companies.
- Environmental Lawyer Advises clients on legal matters related to environmental regulations, advocates for the protection of natural resources and represents clients in cases involving pollution, land use and conservation. They work with government agencies, corporations and nonprofits to ensure compliance and address environmental justice and sustainability issues.
- Estimated salary: $75,000-$140,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, political science, public policy or a related field. A Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and passing the state bar exam is required to practice law. Can also pursue a Master of Laws (LLM) in Environmental Law or obtain certifications related to environmental policy.
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Federal, state and local agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Justice, international organizations such as the United Nations and the World Bank, environmental nonprofits, law firms, environmental consulting firms and companies in energy, manufacturing and construction.
- Geoscientist
Investigates Earth’s materials and processes to understand natural resources, hazards and environmental impacts. They assess pollution, water quality and resource distribution, providing crucial data that helps ensure vulnerable communities are protected from environmental harm and have equitable access to clean water, safe land and natural resources.- Estimated salary: $100,000-$165,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in geosciences, geology, environmental science or a related field. A master’s degree may be required for advanced positions, research roles or specialization in areas like geophysics, geochemistry or geology. Internships, fieldwork and lab experience for practical, hands-on experience.
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Energy companies, mining and extraction companies, engineering and construction firms, environmental consulting firms, research institutions, nonprofits and international organizations such as UNESCO.
- Conservation Scientist
Manages natural resources to protect ecosystems and promote sustainable land use. By working to conserve soil, water and habitats, they support biodiversity and ecosystem health. Their work intersects with environmental justice by helping ensure that all communities, especially marginalized ones, have access to clean air, water and green spaces while safeguarding resources for future generations.- Estimated salary: $79,000-$131,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in forestry, environmental science, ecology, natural resource management or a related field. A master’s degree may be preferred for advanced or specialized positions. Practical experience through internships, seasonal fieldwork or volunteer work with environmental organizations.
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Government agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, nonprofit environmental organizations like The Nature Conservancy and World Wildlife Fund, land management organizations, research institutes and environmental consulting firms.
- Hydrologist
Studies the movement, distribution and quality of water in natural and built environments. They assess water resources and pollution risks to ensure safe, equitable access to clean water for all communities, particularly those disproportionately affected by contamination, drought and inadequate water infrastructure.- Estimated salary: $95,000-$167,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in hydrology, geology, environmental science or civil engineering. Some positions may require a master’s degree in specialized areas such as groundwater flow, water resource management, hydrogeology and computer modeling. Academic and research positions may require a PhD.
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Government agencies such as the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and EPA, water management utilities, engineering and construction companies, research institutes, environmental consulting firms and nonprofit conservation organizations.
- Air Quality Engineer
Designs systems to monitor and reduce air pollution from industrial and urban sources. Their work ensures cleaner air, especially in marginalized communities that often face higher exposure to pollutants. They help develop regulations and technologies that protect public health and promote equitable air quality standards for all.- Estimated salary: $86,000-$120,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, chemical engineering, environmental science or a related field. Some positions may prefer a master’s degree, especially for specialized roles or advancement. Also, certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) or environmental certifications like Certified Indoor Air Quality Manager (CIAQM).
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Government agencies, state environmental departments, manufacturing and industrial companies, utilities and energy companies, research institutes and environmental consulting firms.
- Energy Engineer
Designs and improves systems for generating, distributing and conserving energy, focusing on efficiency and sustainability. They work to develop clean, affordable energy solutions that reduce pollution and energy costs, which can particularly benefit marginalized communities that are disproportionately impacted by environmental hazards and lack access to reliable, sustainable energy sources.- Estimated salary: $110,000-$175,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in energy engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or environmental engineering. A master’s degree may be preferred, especially for specialized or leadership roles. Also, certifications like Certified Energy Manager (CEM) or Certified Energy Auditor (CEA).
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Renewable energy companies, utilities and power companies, manufacturing and industrial companies, environmental and energy consulting firms, construction firms and government agencies such as the Department of Energy (DOE).
- Environmental Engineer
Develops solutions to environmental challenges, such as pollution control, waste management and water treatment. Their work ensures safe, clean environments, especially for underserved communities that often bear the brunt of pollution and hazardous waste. By improving infrastructure and advocating sustainable practices, they can help protect public health and promote equity.- Estimated salary: $83,000-$139,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field, such as civil or chemical engineering. Some positions may prefer a master’s degree in environmental engineering or a specialized area (e.g., water resources, sustainable infrastructure). Also, a PE license or certifications such as Certified Environmental Engineer (CEE).
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Environmental consulting firms, federal, state and local agencies, manufacturing and industrial companies, water and wastewater utilities, nonprofit and conservation organizations, research institutions and civil engineering firms.
Want to learn more about this position? See our full blog post on How to Become an Environmental Engineer.
- Environmental Policy Advisor
Develops and recommends policies to address environmental issues, balancing ecological protection with social and economic needs. They advance environmental justice by crafting regulations that prevent environmental harm, promote equitable access to resources and ensure vulnerable communities are protected from disproportionate impacts of pollution, climate change and resource scarcity.- Estimated salary: $59,000-$103,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, public policy, political science, environmental studies or a related field. Some positions may require a master’s degree in environmental policy, public administration, environmental law or environmental management or a JD with a focus on environmental law. Also, certifications in environmental policy analysis or related areas.
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Government agencies such as the EPA, DOE and local and state environmental agencies, nonprofit NGOs such as the Sierra Club, research institutes such as the World Resources Institute and Brookings Institution, consulting firms and international organizations such as the UN and World Health Organization.
Interested in learning more about environmental policy? See our blog post on What Is an Environmental Policy Analyst? [And How to Become One].
- Program Manager / Coordinator
Oversees projects aimed at environmental sustainability, organizing resources, timelines and stakeholder engagement to meet project goals. One of their responsibilities is to ensure that all initiatives are inclusive, directing resources to communities most affected by environmental issues. By coordinating efforts across teams and partners, they help create equitable solutions that prioritize vulnerable populations.- Estimated salary: $95,000-$165,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental studies, business administration or a related field. Some positions may require a master’s degree in environmental management, environmental policy, business administration (MBA with a sustainability focus) or public administration. Also, certification in environmental management or project management, such as Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM).
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Federal, state and local government agencies, research institutions, renewable energy and utility companies, international organizations and NGOs, environmental consulting firms and nonprofit environmental organizations.
- Environmental Sociologist
Studies how social factors — like race, income and policy — intersect with environmental issues, examining how different groups are impacted by environmental changes and hazards. By researching inequalities in resource access and pollution exposure, they’re able to provide insights that shape fairer policies and promote sustainable, equitable solutions for all communities.- Estimated salary: $63,000-$106,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in sociology, environmental studies, anthropology or a related field. Some positions may require a master’s degree in sociology, environmental sociology or environmental policy, while advanced research positions may require a PhD.
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Federal and state agencies, nonprofit environmental organizations, academic institutions, consulting firms, international organizations, NGOs and public health organizations.
- Sustainability Specialist
Develops strategies to reduce environmental impact, focusing on resource efficiency, waste reduction and sustainable practices. They work to ensure that sustainability efforts are inclusive, addressing disparities so that marginalized communities benefit from cleaner environments, green jobs and equitable access to resources and sustainable infrastructure.- Estimated salary: $63,000-$109,000*
- Education required: A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, sustainability, environmental engineering, business administration or a related field. Some positions may prefer a master’s degree in a specialization area in sustainability or environmental management. Also, certifications from organizations such as LEED or the ISSP.
- Types of companies/organizations hiring: Federal, state and local government agencies, manufacturing and technology corporations, consulting firms, nonprofit and environmental advocacy organizations, healthcare organizations, renewable energy and utility companies and higher education institutions.
*Salary values were retrieved from Glassdoor in March 2025
What Qualifications Do I Need to Work in Environmental Justice?
The exact qualifications for a job will vary by position, especially across different industries. In general, required qualifications include earning at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university program. Depending on your field of practice, you may also need to earn specific industry certifications that will provide additional specialized knowledge and proof of skills.
While most entry-level jobs will accept a bachelor’s degree, some companies and organizations may require a master’s degree for more advanced or leadership positions. In these cases, transdisciplinary environmental programs such as the Master of Science in Engineering, Sustainability and Health (MESH) can help you build upon your background by looking through the lens of other disciplines to co-create solutions that take into account things like the build environment, just transitions, public health and sustainable viable systems.
No matter your specific position, you’ll need to collaborate with professionals across many different fields. You’ll also need to understand the environmental impacts on affected communities and how to bring about sustainable change.You’ll need to cultivate the following skills:
- Communication is essential for coordinating with other professionals and advocating for equitable policies.
- Team management enables effective coordination of multidisciplinary efforts, both in-person and with remote teams.
- Research provides the ability to effectively gather and present evidence-based insights.
- Social theory helps understand systemic inequities and how they affect and are affected by your field.
- Data analysis supports informed decision-making.
- Organizing empowers communities to take collective action and drive change.
How Do I Advance a Career in Environmental Justice?
Like any professional career, the best approach you can take is to build your skills, knowledge and experience while making connections with other professionals in the areas you want to work in.
- Every one of these careers needs the strong foundation of a college degree. However, environmental justice is an evolving field, which means your career will have to be one of lifelong learning. There are always new methods to apply, new approaches to take and new technologies to be designed and developed.
After you earn your bachelor’s degree, consider enrolling in continuing education programs or graduate-level coursework. Earning a graduate-level degree in a program dedicated to environmental justice can help you become a leader and innovator in your field.
- Start researching current open positions that you might be interested in to review their responsibilities and requirements. That will give you an idea of the skills, knowledge and experience that you’ll need to develop and should highlight in your job applications.
- Look for internship or volunteer work opportunities with organizations involved in environmental research, environmental justice, social justice or advocacy. It can provide you with valuable experience and expand your personal and professional network — which will be an invaluable resource for your career.
- Be active in your professional community! Join professional organizations, attend conferences and participate in workshops to meet other professionals. Stay informed and updated on the latest news and emerging trends through reliable sources, journals and scientific publications.
A Different Approach to Addressing Environmental Justice
The University of San Diego’s Master of Science in Engineering, Sustainability and Health (MESH) Degree is designed for people like you who want to take action in furthering environmental justice.
This program is centered around transdisciplinary learning to understand the challenges of facing our environment and our most vulnerable populations. MESH students work together to find and implement the best courses of action for addressing matters related to climate change, biodiversity, disaster recovery and prevention, resource consumption and production.
This transdisciplinary approach helps students build upon their backgrounds (whether in engineering or other disciplines) to better influence their chosen industry or field toward more just and equitable approaches.
“In MESH we are bringing together the wisdom of ecologists, sociologists and experts in just transitions with engineering and public health, so that we can understand the current context and consider what is possible to ‘sustain’ in the long term, and also ensure that this is shared equitably.” – Dr. Caroline Baillie
Whether you’re a new undergraduate or a working professional who is interested in pursuing a career in environmental justice, we’d like to hear from you as we work to build new, holistic solutions to the grand challenges that we all face. Visit our MESH program page to learn how you can interact with other like-minded professionals to work toward sustainable solutions for all.
Which Organizations Support Environmental Justice?
Looking for more information on environmental justice jobs? Check out these other resources.
- EarthJustice — A nonprofit public interest environmental law organization that employs research analysts, policy experts, scientists and more. Career page.
- Climate Justice Alliance — A community member alliance dedicated to building a Just Transition away from extractive systems of production, consumption and political oppression, and toward resilient, regenerative and equitable economies. Career page.
- TreePeople — An environmental organization that works to educate the public, preserve public land and restore ecosystems throughout southern California. Career page.
- Environmental Defense Fund — An international organization committed to climate justice, the EDF works in over 30 countries to stabilize the climate, support community health and strengthen the ability of people and nature to thrive. Career page.
- The Sierra Club — One of the oldest and most established grassroots environmental organizations in the United States, the Sierra Club advocates for everyone’s right to clean air and water, good jobs and a safe climate. Career page.
- Greenpeace — A global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative confrontation to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that promote environmental sustainability rooted in justice. Career page.
- Federal Agencies — The U.S. Federal Government has many agencies that work toward environmental and social justice. Visit the following agency pages for more information on their work and open job positions: