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Entry Level Environmental Sampling Jobs in Buffalo, NY

Pharmaceutical Sales Representative (Specialty to entry level both available) Pharmaceutical Sales ... Ability to thrive and adapt in ambiguous pharmaceutical sales environments * Strong clinical ...

Territory Rep - BioPharma

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$86K - $117K/yr

Pharmaceutical Sales Representative (Specialty to entry level both available) Pharmaceutical Sales ... Ability to thrive and adapt in ambiguous pharmaceutical sales environments * Strong clinical ...

Entry Level Environmental Sampling information

See Buffalo, NY salary details

$14

$23

$36

How much do entry level environmental sampling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental sampling in Buffalo, NY is $23.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $30.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is entry level environmental sampling?

Entry level environmental sampling involves collecting soil, water, air, or sediment samples from various locations to test for contaminants or to monitor environmental conditions. Individuals in these roles typically follow established procedures to ensure accurate and reliable results, often working outdoors and sometimes in challenging conditions. These positions are a starting point for a career in environmental science, providing hands-on experience with field equipment, safety protocols, and environmental regulations. Entry level staff often work under the supervision of senior scientists and may also assist with data recording and reporting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level environmental sampling technician?

To thrive as an Entry Level Environmental Sampling Technician, you need a basic understanding of environmental science, sampling protocols, and often an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with sampling equipment, GPS devices, and data logging software is typically required, and OSHA HAZWOPER certification may be preferred. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurate data collection and reporting. These skills ensure reliable environmental data, regulatory compliance, and the success of field projects.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level professionals in environmental sampling, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level environmental sampling professionals often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, adhering to strict safety protocols, and ensuring the accuracy of collected data. Gaining familiarity with sampling equipment and procedures is key, as is effective communication with team members to coordinate fieldwork. Over time, developing strong organizational skills and attention to detail can help address these challenges and contribute to reliable environmental assessments.

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

AspectEntry Level Environmental SamplingEntry Level Environmental Technician
CertificationsOften requires basic environmental sampling certifications or trainingMay require similar certifications, with additional technical or safety training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork collecting samples at sites like factories, labs, or outdoor locationsField and lab work involving sample collection, analysis, and reporting
Job ResponsibilitiesCollecting environmental samples such as air, water, or soilSampling, data recording, equipment maintenance, and preliminary analysis
Industry UsageCommon in environmental consulting, government agencies, and researchUsed in environmental firms, government agencies, and industrial settings

Both roles involve field sampling and require similar certifications, but Environmental Sampling focuses primarily on sample collection, while Environmental Technicians often handle additional analysis and reporting tasks. They are closely related entry-level positions in the environmental industry, often overlapping in skills and work environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Sampling jobs in Buffalo, NY?

The most popular types of Environmental Sampling jobs in Buffalo, NY are:

What cities near Buffalo, NY are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Sampling jobs?

Cities near Buffalo, NY with the most Entry Level Environmental Sampling job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Sampling job openings in Buffalo, NY 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 $49,497 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

TERRACON

Cheektowaga, NY • On-site

$19.50 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Terracon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description


Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, air rotary drilling, and diamond bit coring techniques. In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as piezometers, monitor wells and inclinometers. Work as part of a multiple person team on projects. ETMs will perform daily tasks including survey and locate drilling points; conduct site reconnaissance; load/unload tooling, materials and samples; classify soil and rock samples; perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment, prepare internal (daily field forms) and external (DOT Logs) paperwork.
Responsibilities
  • This is an entry level position. No experience is required.
  • The employee will be expected perform following tasks:
  • o Load tooling and materials.o Assist in drilling operations and instrumentation and monitoring well installation.o Collect soil and rock samples and log field data.o Perform routine repairs and maintenance.o Perform basic surveying and site reconnaissance.o Drive a medium-duty truck and trailer.o Learn to inspect and how to maintain equipment.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

  • Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Limited or no experience required
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.
  • Required Qualifications:
  • Ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within first 30 days of employment.

  • About Us
    Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
    Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
    About the Team
    Innovation and hands-on practice come together in our geotechnical consulting services. We provide geotechnical services nationwide for a wide range of projects, drawing on six decades of historical geotechnical data, a fleet of more than 200 drill rigs, 140 accredited laboratories, and thousands of employees to quickly organize or capture site data wherever projects are located. From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration, we deliver precision, value-added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project sustainability, quality, and efficiency.

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