Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WI Board of Science
Environmental Scientist Licensing in Wisconsin
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for environmental scientist in Wisconsin, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Environmental Scientist in Wisconsin
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 3
This license allows a person to perform or provide professional level investigation, interpretation, design, or technical project management services related to a claim submitted for reimbursement under the petroleum environmental cleanup fund act (PEFCA) program.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
WI Dept of Natural Resources • Petroleum Environmental Cleanup Fund Award (PECFA)
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$68,980 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#39 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Wisconsin eligibility requirements for Environmental Scientist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (This license allows a person to perform or provide professional level investigation, interpretation, design, or technical project managem...).
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. Submit the application to WI Dept of Natural Resources~Petroleum Environmental Cleanup Fund Award (PECFA) and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Wisconsin
With a median salary of $68,980, Environmental Scientists in Wisconsin earn 14% below the national median of $80,060. Wisconsin ranks #39 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,213Median annual salary
$68,980Hourly estimate
$33.1614% below national median
Difference: -$11,080
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEnvironmental Scientist Salary Ranking
#39 of 50 statesfor Environmental Scientist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $97,520 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | $96,330 |
| #3 | Oregon | $93,560 |
| #4 | Rhode Island | $90,460 |
| #5 | Illinois | $89,010 |
Nearby States Comparison
Environmental Scientist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $68,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $87,210 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $74,060 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $89,010 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Michigan | $76,670 | Degree required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Michigan | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
WI Dept of Natural Resources • Petroleum Environmental Cleanup Fund Award (PECFA)
PO Box 8044, P.O. Box 8044, Madison, WI, 53708-8044
Phone: 8889367463
Related Careers in Wisconsin
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $49,570 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $56,960 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $49,050 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Forester | $65,960 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Environmental Scientist in Wisconsin?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Environmental Scientist salary in Wisconsin?
The median annual salary for Environmental Scientists in Wisconsin is $68,980. Salaries range from $42,180 (10th percentile) to $107,610 (90th percentile).
How does the Environmental Scientist salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
Environmental Scientists in Wisconsin earn 14% below the national median of $80,060, with a state median of $68,980.
How many Environmental Scientists work in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin employs approximately 980 Environmental Scientists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Environmental Scientist license to Wisconsin from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Environmental Scientists in Wisconsin?
The licensing agency is WI Dept of Natural Resources / Petroleum Environmental Cleanup Fund Award (PECFA). Review agency details at http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/brownfields/pecfa.html.
How often do you renew a Environmental Scientist license in Wisconsin?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.