As environmental regulations become more complex and sustainability continues to shape modern agriculture, environmental compliance jobs are playing a more crucial part in keeping ag operations successful—and legal. These careers sit at the intersection of production and policy, helping farms, ranches, and agri-businesses meet local, state, and federal environmental standards.
Whether it’s managing nutrient runoff, overseeing chemical usage, or preparing for EPA audits, environmental compliance professionals are critical in helping agriculture operate responsibly and efficiently.
What Do Environmental Compliance Jobs Look Like?
These jobs come in many forms depending on the size and scope of the operation. Common responsibilities may include:
- Conducting Environmental Risk Assessments
Identifying potential regulatory violations related to air, water, and soil quality. - Developing & Implementing Environmental Plans
Ensuring the operation complies with Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, and state-level requirements. - Monitoring & Reporting
Logging fertilizer, pesticide, and waste management activities in accordance with EPA and USDA guidelines. - Training Staff & Enforcing Best Practices
Educating employees on safe chemical handling, runoff mitigation, and equipment storage procedures. - Coordinating with Inspectors or Agencies
Serving as the point person during surprise audits or routine checks by compliance officers.
Who Hires for These Roles?
- Large-scale farms and commercial operations
- Agribusinesses dealing in grain, dairy, livestock, or feed
- Environmental consulting firms working in ag
- Government or extension programs supporting ag sustainability
Skills & Backgrounds That Stand Out
- Degrees in environmental science, ag science, or biology
- Familiarity with ag chemicals and fertilizer management
- Understanding of regulatory agencies (EPA, NRCS, etc.)
- Strong documentation and communication skills
- Hands-on ag experience is a major plus
Why These Roles Matter
Environmental compliance isn’t just a legal formality—it’s a way to future-proof ag operations and protect the land they depend on. Operations that fail to comply can face steep fines, loss of certification, or even shutdowns. More importantly, they risk damaging the land, water, and trust that sustain them.
Hiring a professional who understands both agriculture and compliance can keep your operation running clean—and avoid costly mistakes.
Looking for a role in environmental compliance?
Browse our latest ag job listings or reach out to Hansen Agri-PLACEMENT to connect with employers looking for candidates like you.