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Entry Level Environmental Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

CDM Smith

Environmental Engineer 2

Fairfax, VA · On-site

CDM Smith is looking for an entry-level Environmental, Water Resources, or Civil Engineer to join our Water Services Group. This position presents an excellent opportunity for early career candidates ...

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All JobsEnvironmental Engineer JobsEntry Level Environmental Engineer JobsEntry Level Environmental Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Environmental Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$43.6K

$103.2K

$150.5K

How much do entry level environmental engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level environmental engineer in Washington, DC is $103,219.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,200.00 and $122,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level environmental engineer do?

An entry-level environmental engineer uses knowledge of biology, soil science, and chemistry, along with engineering principles, to solve environmental problems. In this role, your responsibilities involve working to improve waste disposal, air and water pollution, recycling programs, and public health. You also address global threats, such as climate change, unsafe drinking water, and environmental sustainability. Your duties may include performing quality-control checks, analyzing scientific data, and designing ecological protection programs. You may also study and inspect municipal and industrial facilities to ensure that they are complying with environmental regulations, as well as advise government agencies and corporations regarding the cleanup of contaminated sites.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Environmental Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in environmental, civil, or chemical engineering and a solid understanding of environmental regulations and scientific principles. Familiarity with modeling software (e.g., AutoCAD, GIS), environmental testing equipment, and potentially the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification is typical. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart. These abilities ensure accurate environmental assessments, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration on multidisciplinary projects.

What types of projects do entry level environmental engineers typically work on, and how do they contribute to larger team goals?

Entry level environmental engineers often assist with tasks such as site assessments, data collection, report preparation, and supporting environmental remediation projects. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, contributing to tasks like sampling soil or water, analyzing environmental impact, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Their work is vital to the team's success, as accurate data and well-prepared documentation support project planning and client communication. Over time, entry-level engineers gain exposure to project management and technical decision-making, paving the way for increased responsibility and career advancement.

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

AspectEntry Level Environmental EngineerEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or relevant technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and analysis in labs or offices; fieldwork for site assessmentsFieldwork-focused; sampling, data collection, and site monitoring
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, government agencies, consulting companiesEnvironmental service companies, government agencies, research labs

Entry Level Environmental Engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on designing solutions, analysis, and planning. Environmental Technicians usually have technical certifications and concentrate on field sampling and data collection. Both roles support environmental projects but differ mainly in education, responsibilities, and daily tasks.

Is there a shortage of entry level environmental engineers?

Entry level environmental engineers are in moderate demand due to growing environmental concerns and regulations. Job opportunities are available in consulting firms, government agencies, and industry, especially for those with relevant internships, certifications, or skills in environmental modeling and data analysis.
More about Entry Level Environmental Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Environmental Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Environmental Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Entry Level Environmental Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Environmental Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Environmental Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Entry Level Environmental Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,219 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Entry Level Environmental Engineer (Water Practice)

ERG

Alexandria, VA

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers. The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment. 

ERG is seeking an entry-level Civil/Environmental Engineer to support projects within our Water Practice. This role is ideal for a recent graduate or very early-career professional interested in water resources, water quality, and wastewater management. The selected candidate will provide project-level support across a range of technical and analytical water projects.
Job Description:
  • Provide technical and project support across ERG’s water projects
  • Assist with research, data collection, and analysis related to water resources, water quality, wastewater management, and water and wastewater treatment
  • Prepare technical reports, documentation, and project deliverables
  • Analyze water and wastewater treatment needs, treatment performance. and costs
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and project managers to support client objectives
  • Assist with project coordination and administrative tasks that support successful project execution
Qualifications and Skills:
  • Bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering with a focus on water/wastewater, or a related field
  • 0-1 years of professional experience
  • Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills
  • Strong data analysis skills including advanced Excel functions and R
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
  • Academic coursework or research experience related to wastewater, water resources, or water quality
  • Internship or project experience in environmental consulting, water management, or related fields
  • Familiarity with environmental regulations and compliance frameworks related to water programs
ERG offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, educational benefits, FSAs, a generous 401k plan, profit sharing, an EAP, 11-20 paid vacation days per year, 10 paid holidays per year, 56 hours or more of sick leave (based on the state you work in) per year (pro-rated for part-time) and more. The salary range for all positions depends on the years and type of experience. 
  
ERG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable EEOC regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual preference, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.  
   
Please be aware, the only authentic corporate domain for ERG is https://www.erg.com.  ERG may, on occasion, screen applicants via telephone or video interviews via Skype, Teams, GoToMeeting, or another type of video platform. However, any candidate extended a job offer might be asked to meet in person with an ERG employee before providing confidential personal information associated with new employment. 
  
If you’re a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ERG’s online application process as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources via email at Resumes-Lex@erg.com or call (781) 674-7293. 
  
ERG fosters a friendly, flexible work environment. ERGers are dedicated to serving clients who are committed to making the world a better place. We promote and recognize principles of fairness and respect in the work we do, the partnerships we foster, and the culture we value both within and outside of our organization.