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Entry Level Environmental Sampling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apex Companies

Environmental Scientist 1

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$80K - $106K/yr

Apex is seeking entry-level Environmental Field Scientists that will be responsible for conducting ... Perform field work including collecting and processing environmental samples (stormwater ...

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Entry Level Environmental Sampling information

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

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental sampling in the United States is $24.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $31.73 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.

How to become an environmental tester?

To become an environmental tester, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, followed by obtaining relevant training or certification in environmental sampling techniques. Many positions also require knowledge of safety protocols, laboratory equipment, and environmental regulations, with some roles preferring an associate or bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related field.

What is environmental sampling?

Environmental sampling is a process used by entry level environmental sampling professionals to collect samples of air, water, soil, or other materials from the environment to analyze for pollutants or contaminants. It involves using specialized tools and following safety protocols to ensure accurate results, often supporting environmental assessments and regulatory compliance.

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 does an entry-level environmental scientist do?

An entry-level environmental scientist conducts field sampling and laboratory analysis to assess environmental conditions, such as soil, water, and air quality. They often use tools like sampling equipment and data recording software, and may assist with report writing and compliance documentation under supervision.

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

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.

How to get into environmental field work?

Entry level environmental sampling jobs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring a college degree in environmental science, biology, or related fields. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects. Familiarity with sampling equipment and data collection methods is also beneficial for entry into environmental field work.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Sampling jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Environmental Sampling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Sampling jobs? The most popular types of Environmental Sampling jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Environmental Sampling jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Environmental Sampling jobs include:
Entry Level Environmental Sampling jobs near you
Entry-Level Environmental Scientist/Biologist/Ecologist

Entry-Level Environmental Scientist/Biologist/Ecologist

Tetra Tech

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Tetra Tech rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

335th of 355 rated engineering

Job description

The Opportunity:
Tetra Tech is adding a Entry-Level Environmental Scientist/Biologist/Ecologist to our Environmental team based in Houston, TX.  

Why Tetra Tech:
At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges.  Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.  For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.  Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.  Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact:
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.  Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a motivated Entry-Level Environmental Scientist/Biologist/Ecologist to assist in growing Tetra Tech's Texas environmental business.  Candidate must be highly motivated and work well in a professional and team-oriented environment.  Candidate must also have the ability to manage a heavy workload, travel as needed, possess excellent communication and organizational skills.  Proficiency with MS Office applications is a requirement.


Essential Job Functions:
The following duties are considered essential to the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions:

  • Wetland delineation.

  • Site investigations.

  • Field surveys, water quality assessments, species specific and general protected species surveys, mitigation monitoring.

  • Travel and work hours other than Monday-Friday as needed for project work.

  • Report writing, permit applications, plant community mapping, database management.

  • Candidates must be able to research and interpret federal, state, and local regulations on a project-specific basis to assist with project permitting, reporting, and feasibility studies.

  • Candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to utilize critical thinking, a flexible approach to problem solving, excellent interpersonal communication (oral and written), planning, and organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Other duties as assigned.
     

Required Qualifications:

  • BS degree or equivalent in any of the multi-disciplined sciences including biology, forestry, wildlife, natural resource management, environmental planning, or similar science degrees.
  • Must demonstrated ability in field data collection and analysis, and technical writing.
  • Experience in environmental consulting or related experience preferred.
  • Proficiency with MS Word, Excel required.  ArcGIS experience is a plus.
  • Candidate must be able to walk over uneven and vegetated terrain, carrying field equipment and coolers (up to 50 pounds), and occasional sampling activities such as hand augering. Reasonable accommodations can be made.
  • Candidate must be willing to travel and work hours other than Monday-Friday as needed for project work.
  • A Pre-employment drug screening in compliance with state regulations is required.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record without restrictions. 

Life at Tetra Tech:
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
    Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
    Merit-based financial rewards.
    Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
    Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
    Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.  

About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

We invite applications from all interested parties.

Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs
 

Additional Information
  • Organization: 212 OGA

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