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Entry Level Environmental Protection Jobs in Virginia

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Entry Level Environmental Protection information

See Virginia salary details

$41.1K

$90.6K

$136.8K

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

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level environmental protection in Virginia is $90,641.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,400.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Environmental Protection professional, and why are they important?

To succeed in Entry Level Environmental Protection, you generally need a background in environmental science, biology, or a related field, along with strong analytical and observational skills. Familiarity with environmental monitoring equipment, GIS software, and relevant safety protocols or certifications (such as HAZWOPER) is often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are critical for accurately assessing environmental risks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and effectively collaborating on projects that protect natural resources.

What types of projects and daily tasks can I expect as an entry-level environmental protection professional?

As an entry-level environmental protection professional, you will likely assist with environmental site assessments, data collection, and sample analysis. Your daily tasks may include conducting fieldwork to monitor air, water, or soil quality, preparing reports, and supporting compliance with environmental regulations. You will often collaborate with senior scientists, engineers, or regulatory agencies, gaining exposure to a variety of projects such as habitat restoration, pollution prevention, or sustainability initiatives. This hands-on experience helps you develop technical skills and a deeper understanding of environmental policies.

What are entry level environmental protection jobs?

Entry level environmental protection jobs are positions that focus on safeguarding the environment and public health through activities like monitoring pollution, enforcing regulations, conducting fieldwork, and supporting conservation efforts. These roles are designed for individuals who are new to the field, often requiring a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related discipline. Typical job titles include environmental technician, field analyst, or environmental compliance assistant. Duties can vary from collecting samples and analyzing data to supporting environmental education and assisting with regulatory compliance. These jobs provide a foundation for career growth in environmental science and policy.

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

AspectEntry Level Environmental ProtectionEntry Level Environmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental Science or related fieldBachelor's in Environmental Science, Environmental Technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, laboratories, government agencies, consulting firmsField inspections, laboratory analysis, data collection
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, environmental consulting, non-profitsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, industrial sites

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in environmental science or related fields and involve fieldwork and data collection. Environmental Protection roles often focus on policy, regulation, and program development, while Environmental Technician positions emphasize technical data collection and analysis. They are closely related, with overlapping skills and work environments, but differ mainly in scope and specific responsibilities.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Protection jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Environmental Protection job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Protection job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 41% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,641 per year, or $43.6 per hour.
Entry Level Environmental Engineer (Water Practice)

Entry Level Environmental Engineer (Water Practice)

ERG

Alexandria, VA

Full-time

Posted 2 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.Â