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Entry Level Ecology Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

A strong background in environmental impact assessment, permitting, ecological field studies, and ... As an entry-level hire, you'll be part of a class of peers with 0-1 year of professional experience.

New

A strong background in environmental impact assessment, permitting, ecological field studies, and ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Entry Level Ecology information

See Virginia salary details

$16K

$40.4K

$58.8K

How much do entry level ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level ecology in Virginia is $40,427.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,093.00 and $46,195.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of fieldwork and data collection are typically expected in an entry level ecology position?

Entry-level ecology roles often involve a mix of outdoor fieldwork and laboratory tasks. You may be responsible for collecting soil, water, or plant samples, monitoring wildlife populations, and recording environmental data in various weather conditions. Collaboration with more experienced ecologists or conservation teams is common to ensure data accuracy and safety in the field. These experiences provide valuable hands-on skills and foundational knowledge, which are highly regarded for career advancement in ecology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level ecologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Ecologist, you typically need a degree in ecology, environmental science, or a related field, with foundational knowledge in biological and ecological principles. Familiarity with GIS software, field sampling equipment, and data analysis tools is often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork skills help you effectively collect data and collaborate on research projects. These abilities ensure accurate data collection, reliable analysis, and productive fieldwork, all of which are vital for ecological research and conservation efforts.

What is the difference between Entry Level Ecology vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEntry Level EcologyEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's in Environmental Science, Biology, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research sites, laboratoriesField surveys, sampling, data collection
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental agencies, NGOsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies

Entry Level Ecology and Environmental Technician roles often require similar educational backgrounds and involve fieldwork and data collection. However, Entry Level Ecology typically emphasizes research and ecological analysis, while Environmental Technicians focus more on sampling, monitoring, and supporting environmental assessments. Both roles serve the environmental industry but differ slightly in job focus and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ecology jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Ecology jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Ecology jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Ecology job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Ecology job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 65% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,427 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Entry-Level Environmental Scientist

Dewberry

Fairfax, VA

$67K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Assist with field delineations of wetlands and Waters of the U.S.

  • Assist in the preparation of delineation reports, functional assessments, mitigation plans, and Jurisdictional Determinations

  • Conduct vegetation and wildlife habitat surveys


Dewberry rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry-Level Environmental Scientist to join our Environmental Group in our Fairfax, VA office. This is an excellent career opportunity for an enthusiastic and talented individual to join a team of outstanding professionals.  This position offers tremendous potential for professional growth in a great working environment and the opportunity to apply the latest technology to help our clients solve their most challenging problems. 


  • Assist with field delineations of wetlands and Waters of the U.S.
  • Assist in the preparation of delineation reports, functional assessments, mitigation plans, and Jurisdictional Determinations
  • Assist in the preparation of permit applications under Sections 404/401 of the Clean Water Act and NPDES Section 402 regulatory permitting
  • Coordinate with state, federal, and local regulators, as appropriate
  • Conduct vegetation and wildlife habitat surveys
  • Provide database reviews and background research for NEPA documents
  • Conduct threatened and endangered species surveys
  • Prepare Section 7 consultations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  • Prepare Section 106 consultations with the State Historic Preservation Officer
  • Conduct permit compliance monitoring and assist in conducting Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESA)

  • A BS or MS degree in biology, wildlife or natural resources is required
  • 0-2 years of experience is required
  • A strong background in environmental impact assessment, permitting, ecological field studies, and planning is required
  • Specialized expertise may be in environmental, terrestrial, wetland, or wildlife sciences
  • Must have demonstrated ability in field data collection and analysis, technical writing
  • Strong oral and written communication/interpersonal skills is a must
  • Ability to work in a professional and team-oriented work environment
  • Valid Driver's Liscense  is required

Don’t meet every single requirement? At Dewberry we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for our employees. So if you’re excited about this role, but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the position description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may just be the right candidate for this or other opportunities.

*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.

*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.

*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry’s background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.


The projected range for this position is $67,000 - $69,500 annually. Depending upon other factors, i.e., skills, experience, location, market conditions, the range may vary slightly.


As an entry-level hire, you’ll be part of a class of peers with 0-1 year of professional experience. Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and team building activities led by an advisory team to:

  • Form lasting connections with peers in your class.
  • Gain a better understanding of career growth and meaningful opportunities to align with your professional goals.
  • Expand your knowledge of Dewberry and what we do.

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