Environmental Scientist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Environmental scientists in the U.S. typically qualify for H-1B visa, O-1 visa, or EB-2 visa sponsorship based on their specialized scientific knowledge and degree requirements. Most positions require a bachelor's in environmental science, geology, or related field, making them eligible as specialty occupations under USCIS guidelines. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
Find Environmental Scientist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 640+ Environmental Scientist jobs
See all 640+ Environmental Scientist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Environmental Scientist roles.
Get Access To All JobsDepartment Name: Environmental Protection Division
Program Area: Radiation Control Bureau
Looking for a rewarding career and growth opportunity? The New Mexico Environment Department (NMENV) is seeking highly engaged talent to assist us in our mission to protect and restore the environment and foster a healthy and prosperous New Mexico for present and future generations. Come be a part of our great team for change!
As a valued new employee to the NMENV, you will receive five (5) full days of leave in your leave balances right from your start date.
NMED participates in E-Verify and will verify employment eligibility upon hire.
Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date.
Why does the job exist?
This position exists to protect the public, radiation workers, and the environment by ensuring the safe and compliant use of radioactive materials and radiation-producing equipment in New Mexico. The Environmental Scientist II applies professional knowledge of radiation protection, health physics, radiologic technology, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, medical physics, and radioactive materials to evaluate regulated activities and determine compliance with New Mexico radiation protection requirements, applicable U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission requirements, and accepted radiation protection practices.
The position provides technical expertise within the Radiation Control Bureau to support a consistent, technically sound, and defensible regulatory program. Through its licensing, compliance, and technical responsibilities, the position helps ensure that radioactive materials and radiation-producing equipment are used safely, that regulatory decisions are supported by sound technical review, and that the Department can effectively carry out its responsibility to protect New Mexico’s public health and environment.
How does it get done?
-
Review and process radioactive materials (RAM) licensing actions including new license applications, amendments, renewals, terminations, and other licensing actions. Conduct detailed technical evaluations of radioactive material use, radiation safety programs, operating procedures, personnel qualifications, facilities, equipment, radiation monitoring, emergency procedures, and financial assurance requirements to ensure compliance with New Mexico Radiation Protection Regulations and applicable U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) compatibility requirements.
-
Conduct radiation protection inspections and compliance evaluations of radioactive materials licensees and radiation-producing facilities. Evaluate radiation safety practices, identify potential violations or deficiencies, document inspection findings, and provide technical support for compliance, enforcement, incident response, and corrective actions.
-
Review and process X-ray and radiation-producing machine registrations and evaluate associated technical and radiation safety requirements. Apply knowledge of diagnostic radiography, fluoroscopy, computed tomography (CT), mammography, dental and other X-ray systems, as applicable, to support the safe operation and regulatory oversight of radiation-producing equipment throughout New Mexico.
-
Provide radiation protection and health physics expertise to licensees, registrants, inspectors, other Radiation Control Bureau staff, and the public. Interpret radiation protection requirements and provide technical guidance related to radioactive materials, X-ray equipment, radiation safety programs, personnel qualifications, radiation monitoring, shielding, and safe operating practices.
-
Participate in radiation protection rulemaking and program development, including researching technical and regulatory issues, evaluating proposed changes, Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) actions, drafting and revising regulations, policies, procedures, guidance documents, and licensing requirements, and supporting efforts to maintain compatibility with NRC requirements and current radiation protection and health physics practices.
-
Support continuous improvement of the Radiation Control Bureau’s regulatory programs by identifying opportunities to improve licensing, registration, inspection, and compliance processes; mentoring and providing technical guidance to less-experienced staff; participating in technical projects and special assignments; and contributing to a consistent, technically sound, transparent, and defensible radiation control program.
Who are the customers?
- New Mexicans to protect and restore the environment
- Occasional contact with external Federal, State and Local regulatory bodies as well as contractors and environmental not-for-profit organizations
- Internal staff
Minimum Qualification
Bachelor's Degree in Physical, Natural, or Environmental Science, Soil Science, or Engineering and two (2) years of work experience in public/environmental health, environmental science, Air Quality Management, Biology, Engineering, Chemistry, Geology, Hazardous Waste Management, Wildlife Management, and/or Water Resources. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling six (6) years may substitute for the required education and experience.
Employment Requirements
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license. Must possess and maintain a current Defensive Driving Course Certificate from the State of New Mexico or must pass and receive Defensive Driving Course Certification within six (6) months of date of hire as a condition of continued employment.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in an office setting with exposure to Visual/Video Display Terminal (VDT) and extensive personal computer and phone usage. Some sitting, standing, bending, and reaching may be required. Statewide travel and ability to carry and properly use radiation survey instrumentation and inspection equipment. Inspection activities involve potential exposure to ionizing radiation, hazardous chemicals, bio-hazard materials, and industrial work-site hazards. The working conditions will require traveling up to 25% of each month throughout New Mexico. Lifting up to 50 lbs will be part of the job requirements when on field inspections.
Supplemental Information
Do you know what Total Compensation is?
Agency Contact Information: Robert Bicknell, (505) 570-7240 or Email
For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.
For more information on how to apply, please check out the Application Guide.
Bargaining Unit Position
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to.
Department Name: Environmental Protection Division
Program Area: Radiation Control Bureau
Looking for a rewarding career and growth opportunity? The New Mexico Environment Department (NMENV) is seeking highly engaged talent to assist us in our mission to protect and restore the environment and foster a healthy and prosperous New Mexico for present and future generations. Come be a part of our great team for change!
As a valued new employee to the NMENV, you will receive five (5) full days of leave in your leave balances right from your start date.
NMED participates in E-Verify and will verify employment eligibility upon hire.
Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date.
Why does the job exist?
This position exists to protect the public, radiation workers, and the environment by ensuring the safe and compliant use of radioactive materials and radiation-producing equipment in New Mexico. The Environmental Scientist II applies professional knowledge of radiation protection, health physics, radiologic technology, nuclear medicine, radiation therapy, medical physics, and radioactive materials to evaluate regulated activities and determine compliance with New Mexico radiation protection requirements, applicable U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission requirements, and accepted radiation protection practices.
The position provides technical expertise within the Radiation Control Bureau to support a consistent, technically sound, and defensible regulatory program. Through its licensing, compliance, and technical responsibilities, the position helps ensure that radioactive materials and radiation-producing equipment are used safely, that regulatory decisions are supported by sound technical review, and that the Department can effectively carry out its responsibility to protect New Mexico’s public health and environment.
How does it get done?
-
Review and process radioactive materials (RAM) licensing actions including new license applications, amendments, renewals, terminations, and other licensing actions. Conduct detailed technical evaluations of radioactive material use, radiation safety programs, operating procedures, personnel qualifications, facilities, equipment, radiation monitoring, emergency procedures, and financial assurance requirements to ensure compliance with New Mexico Radiation Protection Regulations and applicable U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) compatibility requirements.
-
Conduct radiation protection inspections and compliance evaluations of radioactive materials licensees and radiation-producing facilities. Evaluate radiation safety practices, identify potential violations or deficiencies, document inspection findings, and provide technical support for compliance, enforcement, incident response, and corrective actions.
-
Review and process X-ray and radiation-producing machine registrations and evaluate associated technical and radiation safety requirements. Apply knowledge of diagnostic radiography, fluoroscopy, computed tomography (CT), mammography, dental and other X-ray systems, as applicable, to support the safe operation and regulatory oversight of radiation-producing equipment throughout New Mexico.
-
Provide radiation protection and health physics expertise to licensees, registrants, inspectors, other Radiation Control Bureau staff, and the public. Interpret radiation protection requirements and provide technical guidance related to radioactive materials, X-ray equipment, radiation safety programs, personnel qualifications, radiation monitoring, shielding, and safe operating practices.
-
Participate in radiation protection rulemaking and program development, including researching technical and regulatory issues, evaluating proposed changes, Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) actions, drafting and revising regulations, policies, procedures, guidance documents, and licensing requirements, and supporting efforts to maintain compatibility with NRC requirements and current radiation protection and health physics practices.
-
Support continuous improvement of the Radiation Control Bureau’s regulatory programs by identifying opportunities to improve licensing, registration, inspection, and compliance processes; mentoring and providing technical guidance to less-experienced staff; participating in technical projects and special assignments; and contributing to a consistent, technically sound, transparent, and defensible radiation control program.
Who are the customers?
- New Mexicans to protect and restore the environment
- Occasional contact with external Federal, State and Local regulatory bodies as well as contractors and environmental not-for-profit organizations
- Internal staff
Minimum Qualification
Bachelor's Degree in Physical, Natural, or Environmental Science, Soil Science, or Engineering and two (2) years of work experience in public/environmental health, environmental science, Air Quality Management, Biology, Engineering, Chemistry, Geology, Hazardous Waste Management, Wildlife Management, and/or Water Resources. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling six (6) years may substitute for the required education and experience.
Employment Requirements
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license. Must possess and maintain a current Defensive Driving Course Certificate from the State of New Mexico or must pass and receive Defensive Driving Course Certification within six (6) months of date of hire as a condition of continued employment.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in an office setting with exposure to Visual/Video Display Terminal (VDT) and extensive personal computer and phone usage. Some sitting, standing, bending, and reaching may be required. Statewide travel and ability to carry and properly use radiation survey instrumentation and inspection equipment. Inspection activities involve potential exposure to ionizing radiation, hazardous chemicals, bio-hazard materials, and industrial work-site hazards. The working conditions will require traveling up to 25% of each month throughout New Mexico. Lifting up to 50 lbs will be part of the job requirements when on field inspections.
Supplemental Information
Do you know what Total Compensation is?
Agency Contact Information: Robert Bicknell, (505) 570-7240 or Email
For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.
For more information on how to apply, please check out the Application Guide.
Bargaining Unit Position
This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to.
See all 640+ Environmental Scientist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Environmental Scientist roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as an Environmental Scientist
Target federal contractors and consulting firms
Environmental consulting companies like AECOM, CH2M Hill, and Tetra Tech frequently sponsor visas since they need specialized expertise for government contracts and regulatory compliance projects.
Highlight specialized environmental expertise
Focus on niche areas like contaminated site remediation, environmental impact assessments, or air quality modeling. Specialized knowledge strengthens your H-1B specialty occupation case with USCIS.
Consider state and local government roles
Many state environmental agencies and municipalities sponsor H-1B visas for environmental scientists, especially those with experience in water quality, waste management, or environmental monitoring programs.
Emphasize advanced degrees and certifications
Master's degrees in environmental science or related fields, plus professional certifications like Certified Environmental Scientist (CES), significantly strengthen your visa petition and employer sponsorship case.
Research companies with EPA contracts
Organizations working on EPA Superfund sites, environmental assessments, or regulatory compliance often need international talent and have established visa sponsorship processes for qualified environmental professionals.
Network through professional organizations
Join the National Association of Environmental Professionals (NAEP) or similar groups. Many members work at companies that sponsor visas and can provide insider knowledge about opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What degree do I need for H-1B sponsorship as an environmental scientist?
You need at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, geology, chemistry, biology, or a closely related field. The degree must be directly related to the environmental scientist role you're applying for. USCIS considers environmental science a specialty occupation when the position requires specialized scientific knowledge and a relevant degree.
Do environmental scientists have good H-1B approval rates?
Yes, environmental scientists typically have strong H-1B visa approval rates because the role clearly qualifies as a specialty occupation requiring specialized scientific knowledge. The key is ensuring your specific position requires a bachelor's degree in environmental science or related field, and that your employer can demonstrate the job's complexity and specialization requirements.
Can environmental consultants get visa sponsorship?
Yes, but it depends on the employment structure. If you're a direct employee of a consulting firm, they can sponsor your H-1B. However, if you're an independent contractor or work through a staffing agency, the sponsorship becomes more complex. The actual end client where you perform work may need to be involved in the petition process.
How to find Environmental Scientist jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Environmental Scientist jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international professionals with sponsored positions. Focus on consulting firms, government agencies, renewable energy companies, and environmental remediation organizations that commonly sponsor H-1B, TN visa, and other work visas for environmental professionals with specialized expertise in sustainability, pollution control, or climate research.
What if my environmental science degree is from outside the U.S.?
Foreign environmental science degrees are generally acceptable for H-1B petitions, but you'll need a credential evaluation from an approved agency like WES or ECE. The evaluation must confirm your degree is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree. Some countries' three-year degrees may require additional coursework or work experience to meet equivalency standards.
Do I need specific certifications for environmental scientist visa sponsorship?
Professional certifications aren't required for H-1B sponsorship, but they can strengthen your petition. Certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Environmental Scientist (CES), or specialized credentials in areas like hazardous materials or environmental auditing demonstrate additional expertise that supports the specialty occupation requirement and makes you more attractive to sponsoring employers.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Environmental Scientist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.