Environmental Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

Houston, Texas$79,200 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Environmental Engineer Jobs in Houston

Looking for a Environmental Engineer job in Houston? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Environmental Engineer in Houston, TX.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Houston has a strong job market for Environmental Engineers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Environmental Engineer Salary in Houston

Entry Level
$53,040
Median
$79,200
Senior Level
$110,400

Environmental Engineer salaries in Houston are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Houston is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Environmental RegulationsWater TreatmentRemediationSustainabilityData Analysis

Environmental Engineer Job Market in Houston

Houston, TX is a major regional employment hub for Environmental Engineer professionals. With a population of 2.3 million, the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro area offers diverse opportunities across multiple industries. While Energy leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Environmental Engineer roles across various sectors. The market for Environmental Engineer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Environmental Engineers in Houston

City of HoustonMETROHouston ISDPort of Houston

Major employers hiring Environmental Engineers in Houston include City of Houston, METRO, Houston ISD, Port of Houston. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Environmental Engineers in Houston

Living in Houston as a Environmental Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,500/month (17% below the national average). At median Environmental Engineer salary, housing is quite affordable at 23% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,100/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

96
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.5K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Environmental Engineer in Houston

Houston Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Environmental Engineers in Houston: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Environmental Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Texas

Texas has no state income tax. Compared to a state with 5% income tax, a Environmental Engineer earning $79,200 would save approximately $3,960 annually. This makes Houston attractive for high earners, though property taxes and sales tax help fund state services.

Career Outlook for Environmental Engineers

The job outlook for Environmental Engineers in Houston is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Houston's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Environmental Regulations, Water Treatment, Remediation, Sustainability.

Relocating to Houston

Texas has no state income tax, which can add thousands to your annual take-home pay compared to high-tax states like California or New York. Be prepared for hot summers. Air conditioning is essential, and outdoor activities shift to mornings and evenings during summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Environmental Engineer salary in Houston, TX?

The average Environmental Engineer salary in Houston, TX is $79,200 per year. Entry-level Environmental Engineers typically start around $53,040, while experienced professionals can earn $110,400 or more. The national average for Environmental Engineer roles is $82,500.

How many Environmental Engineer jobs are available in Houston?

Houston has a strong job market with regular openings for Environmental Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Environmental Engineers include City of Houston, METRO, Houston ISD, Port of Houston. The Energy and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Houston a good city for Environmental Engineers?

Houston is an very good choice for Environmental Engineers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's energy industry creates strong demand for engineering professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Environmental Engineers in Houston?

Top skills for Environmental Engineers in Houston include Environmental Regulations, Water Treatment, Remediation, Sustainability, Data Analysis. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Environmental Engineers in Houston?

Houston's cost of living is near the national average (96% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,500/month. Purchasing power in Houston is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Environmental Engineers in Houston?

Houston Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

More Engineering Jobs in Houston