ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) consulting is a rapidly growing field in the United States as more businesses prioritize sustainable practices and ethical operations. This profession involves helping organizations measure, manage, and communicate their ESG performance. So in this blog, we will discuss about the highest paying ESG consultant jobs in the US.

ESG consultant jobs in the US are generally tasked with doing due research before providing particular financial advice. However, this is simply the tip of the iceberg regarding the activities usually performed by someone in this position.

What does an ESG Consultant do?

The ESG consultant jobs in the US come under the umbrella of Sustainable Investing. Their role is to find any changes in a company’s portfolio for additional investments and divest from those not ecologically or socially appropriate. They also assist businesses and investors in determining their effect on society and the environment.

Job Description of ESG Consultant

The job definition of an ESG consultant is variable and ever-changing. They could be active in one or more of the following activities:

Who Hires an ESG Consultant?

Many financial institutions hire consultants for ESG screening, company engagement, and report creation. Most large financial institutions today have an ESG strategy, department, or team with specialized knowledge in evaluating how well corporations operate regarding environmental and social criteria. These organizations seek to advise investment portfolio senior management on potential investments and hazards connected with specific sectors.

What are the Top ESG Consulting Firms?

Many businesses provide sustainability consulting. Some concentrate on specific company verticals or other criteria, but the most significant organizations on the market deliver actionable insights. A solid ESG consulting service should give you high-quality information on your portfolio of investments and firms in their industry, allowing you to make well-informed decisions based on rigorous research.

What are the Highest-Paying ESG Consultant Jobs in the US?

The United States, as a global leader in numerous industries, has experienced a substantial surge in ESG-focused roles. With this increased demand, several ESG positions command substantial salaries, making them some of the highest-paying jobs in the sustainability sector. These roles, which range from strategy consulting to risk management to analyzing ESG data, require a unique blend of expertise in sustainability issues, business acumen, and strategic decision-making.

Here are some of the highest-paying ESG Consultant jobs in the U.S., providing an overview of each role, the key responsibilities, and the potential compensation one can expect:

1. ESG Manager

Salary: The salary range is $71,600.00 – $87,947.00 – $132,600.00.

Key Responsibilities:

Data Gathering and Management

• To satisfy worldwide reporting on ESG and communication demands, ensure the extraction, gathering, measurement, organization, collection, and analysis of ESG data.
• For all metrics, establish definitions, owners of data, processes, data controls, and reliability protocols.
• Responsible for ESG data analytical rigor, accuracy, consistency, and completeness.
• Collaborate with ESG stakeholders to identify data gaps and accuracy issues, then begin the process(es) to fill those gaps.
• Maintain a working knowledge of auditing and internal control practices that aid in gathering information, confirmation, and process integrity.
• Establish processes for data and quality protocols to assure an independent third-party evaluation of ESG data and target progress.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for ESG data reviewers.

Communication, Transparency, and Reporting

• Lead the creation of quantitative and qualitative material for ESG reporting.
• Support the alignment and disclosure of ESG frameworks such as the Global Reporting Initiative, the Sustainable Accounting Standards Board, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
• Serve as the principal point of contact for collecting data for relevant stakeholders seeking ESG and sustainability reports.
• Manage ESG performance and goals through internal and external communication and disclosure.
• Interact with clients, important stakeholders, internal and external partners, etc.

Strategy and Implementation

• Encourage ongoing system and process improvement.
• Maintain a thorough awareness of the ESG landscape, major stakeholders’ reporting and disclosure trends, rating systems, reporting frameworks and standards, legislation, and peer/company best practices.
• Engage with ESG rating firms, understand the mechanisms underlying the rating, and help strategy development to create positive score influence.
• Assist the worldwide ESG and Corporate Responsibility Teams in the overall strategy and program.

2. ESG Specialists

Salary: In the United States, the expected total pay for an ESG Specialist is $68,475 annually, with an average salary of $64,449 annually.

The ESG Specialist will be accountable for assisting in the formulation and execution of ESG-required and independent reporting strategies, analyzing ESG data and trends, and informing the corporate ESG strategy’s continual evolution. Undertaking research and benchmarking, analyzing and correlating massive datasets, and communicating cross-departmentally across a worldwide workforce are critical areas of duty. The ideal applicant is familiar with the present environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting and rating landscape and has worked on ESG/Sustainability reports for publicly traded companies. They are at ease in a high-performance, fast-paced atmosphere. They will also be skilled at multitasking and have a solid dedication to quality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Data analysis and interpretation: aid in the collection, management, and interpretation of data linked with necessary ESG measures to track and evaluate ongoing performance, as well as identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.
• Benchmarking and research: Changes in ESG criteria, evaluations, and rankings are being tracked.
• Questionnaires for stakeholders: Collaborating with cross-functional teams and subject matter experts, assisting in submitting the company’s responses to customers’ ESG questionnaires, reviewers, and rankers, especially responding to the CDP climate change and water security.
• Reporting Annually: Annually, assist in producing the company’s ESG/Sustainability report to align with GRI, SASB, and TCFD reporting frameworks. Assist with the materiality assessment process, including continuing updates to ensure compliance with global best practices.
• Collaboration with subject matter experts, communications, and marketing teams to assist in developing strategic ESG communications products targeted at key stakeholders.
• ESG Policy: Track key performance indicators and organizational goals to support the company’s ESG strategy. As needed, assist with additional ESG initiatives and teams.

3. ESG Director/Head of ESG

Salary: In the United States, the typical ESG Director compensation ranges from $109,640 to $173,073.

The Director of ESG oversees all elements of the organization’s sustainability, environmental, social, and governance programs. Creates corporate sustainability and ESG strategies to ensure that business practices, programs, and services are socially and ecologically responsible and in accordance with government rules and regulations. Collaborates with other executives to implement processes and technology that lower the organization’s carbon footprint. Internal and external audiences are promoted, and the organization’s sustainability philosophy is explained.

Key Responsibilities:

• As Chairperson, she directs the ESG Council’s creation and implementation of current and future ESG-related strategy, goals, target metrics, and activities.
• Develop a comprehensive corporate sustainability and ESG plan consistent with the company’s beliefs and goals.
• Identify and prioritize major environmental, social, and governance issues important to our business and stakeholders, and develop strategies to address them.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to raise awareness and support for our corporate sustainability and environmental, social, and governance activities.
• Create and implement sustainability programs that lower our environmental impact while increasing resource efficiency.
• Participate in the creation and execution of our ESG reporting framework, which includes openness and dissemination of our ESG performance to stakeholders.
• Collaboration with SEC Data and Reporting Analyst Works closely with allocated finance and accounting team members to guarantee that all reported data is generated, reviewed, and approved by the Company’s ESG governance.
• We monitor and analyze industry trends and best practices in corporate sustainability and ESG to ensure our efforts stay relevant and practical.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to incorporate corporate sustainability and environmental, social, and ethical factors into company decisions and procedures.
• Manage major external stakeholders such as non-governmental organizations, industry groups, and regulatory bodies.
• Establish and oversee the corporate sustainability and ESG budget, and ensure that resources are effectively allocated.
• Partners with the Investor Relations team to tell our ESG story and highlight our accomplishments and progress metrics.

4. ESG Data Analyst

Salary: In the United States, the expected total pay for an ESG Data Analyst is $72,316 annually, with an average salary of $68,532 annually.

The ESG Data Analyst is responsible for monitoring and evaluating ESG-related data, identifying patterns and trends in large datasets, and using this information to provide insights that inform strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate is well-versed in the current ESG landscape, has experience working with complex databases, and can effectively communicate data-driven insights to various stakeholders. This role operates in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment, demanding high performance, efficiency, and a commitment to accuracy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Facilitate the collection, management, and interpretation of ESG data to support the development of key performance metrics, track ongoing performance, and identify potential areas for improvement.
• Monitor developments in ESG criteria, assessments, and rankings, and interpret their implications for the company.
• Support the creation and delivery of ESG reports and presentations that highlight key data insights and trends to inform business decisions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to effectively communicate data-driven insights and recommendations related to ESG initiatives.
• Use data analysis to inform and shape the company’s ESG strategy and goals, and support various ESG initiatives and teams as needed.

5. ESG Risk Manager

Salary: In the United States, the expected total pay for an ESG Risk Manager is $87,543 annually, with an average salary of $83,786 annually.

The ESG Risk Manager is tasked with overseeing the company’s ESG risk profile, conducting comprehensive risk assessments, and developing and implementing risk management strategies. The ideal candidate understands the current ESG landscape, is experienced in risk management, and has a proven track record of success in managing complex risks related to environmental, social, and governance factors. They thrive in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment and have a strong commitment to quality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments related to ESG factors and provide detailed reports outlining findings and recommendations.
• Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate ESG-related risks and promote sustainable business practices.
• Develop regular risk reports for key stakeholders, including leadership teams and board members, and ensure the company’s risk status aligns with ESG reporting frameworks like GRI, SASB, and TCFD.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and subject matter experts to manage ESG risks and ensure adherence to the company’s risk management policies and procedures.
• Leverage risk insights to inform the company’s ESG strategy and support various ESG initiatives and teams as needed.

6. Associate ESG Reporting

Salary: In the United States, the expected total pay for an ESG Associate is $45,534 annually, with an average salary of $43,250 annually.

The Associate, ESG Reporting will assist with data consolidation, management, and process improvement for the company’s yearly social impact and sustainability (SI&S) assessment and ESG data quality control activities. Maintaining and improving internal data gathering via the ESG Data Platform (CCS) and directing the collection of ESG data and metrics from across the company for internal and external reporting are examples of responsibilities. Furthermore, the Associate will assist with processes for external assurance, interior inspection of data, and the continual creation and refining of internal controls frameworks for ESG data.

Key Responsibilities:

• Using multiple ELC data systems and the ESG Data Platform, manage the consolidation of ESG data and metrics (including those associated with goals and commitments) for inclusion in the external annual SI&S Report. Collaborate with data owners and small and medium-sized businesses to guarantee timely, complete, and accurate disclosure.
• Assist the company’s external auditor with pre-assurance and assurance engagements. As the principal contact to the IA team, lead the yearly Internal Audit engagement, ensuring all ESG measures are appropriately validated and are ready for the audit process.
• Oversee the quarterly collection, aggregation, verification, and on-time reporting of internal and external ESG goal progress data. Work with the Goal Governance team to verify that all parts of internal goal reports are accurate.

Bottom Line

ESG consultant jobs in the US are to find opportunities for additional investments in a company’s portfolio and to divest from those who are not socially responsible. They accomplish this by evaluating a company’s environmental and social issues, governance, and how these variables align with the client’s values. If the client has an ESG plan, they will want their adviser to track how well it is being carried out. An ESG consultant would also manage difficulties that develop within the company, such as boycotts and litigation.

Note: Bear in mind that actual salaries can vary greatly based on factors such as industry, company size, location, years of experience, and specific skills. Also, the ESG field is rapidly evolving, with new roles and opportunities emerging constantly. Consequently, the demand for ESG consultants is expected to grow, which may impact salary trends in the future.

FAQs

Q1. Is ESG a good career?

ESG consultant jobs in the USA pay well, with compensation scales similar to other fields. We should expect additional prospects for well-paying positions in this industry as the need for ESG specialists develops.

Q2. Does ESG pay well?

Professionals are leaving ESG positions. It could have anything to do with pay. According to a wage survey conducted by recruitment firm Pearse Partners, ESG finance experts are significantly underpaid compared to their peers in traditional finance.

Q3. Is ESG a growing field?

Given the trillions of dollars invested in funds that use ESG guidelines, reporting on ESG activities is a growing field for consulting and public accounting firms. Accountants are increasingly involved in defining those ESG guidelines and assessing and reporting the data due to their involvement in financial reporting.

Also Read: Environmental Consultant: A Sustainable Career For Youngsters