My Colorado Journey
Back to pathway map
Energy

Environmental Compliance Inspector

Inspect and investigate sources of pollution to protect the public and environment and ensure conformance with Federal, State, and local regulations and ordinances.

Annual openings

793

Median wage

$82,450

Typical education

Bachelor's degree

Growth 2026–2032

+8%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

Interactive walkthrough

Explore My Colorado Journey Careers

See where to compare pay, job demand, locations, skills, education, and training for a Colorado career.

Open in a new tab

Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

Bachelor's degree

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Work experience

Extensive on-the-job training and experience is expected.

Salary/Demand information crosses multiple jobs in multiple industries.
Environmental Compliance Inspectors play a key role in energy production in a way that protects our environment and other natural resources.
There is a shortage of environmental workers that keep up with regulatory changes in Colorado.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerYes
  • OutdoorsNo
  • With your handsNo

Interests it draws on

  • Government
  • Public Administration

Automation exposure

Low exposure

Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.

A typical day

  1. Determine the nature of code violations and actions to be taken, and issue written notices of violation, participating in enforcement hearings, as necessary.
  2. Prepare, organize, and maintain inspection records.
  3. Investigate complaints and suspected violations regarding illegal dumping, pollution, pesticides, product quality, or labeling laws.
  4. Determine which sites and violation reports to investigate, and coordinate compliance and enforcement activities with other government agencies.
  5. Interview individuals to determine the nature of suspected violations and to obtain evidence of violations.
  6. Inform individuals and groups of pollution control regulations and inspection findings, and explain how problems can be corrected.
Feedback