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Entry Level Environmental Science Jobs in Illinois

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Entry Level Environmental Science information

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental science in Illinois is $21.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to start a career in entry level environmental science?

To start a career in entry level environmental science, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree such as environmental science, biology, or chemistry. Gaining practical experience through internships, volunteering, or research projects and developing skills in data analysis, GIS, and environmental monitoring can improve job prospects. Certifications like OSHA safety training or specialized environmental credentials can also be beneficial.

What types of jobs can you get with an entry level environmental science degree?

Entry level environmental science graduates can pursue roles such as environmental technician, field analyst, conservation assistant, or sustainability coordinator. These positions often involve data collection, environmental monitoring, and supporting environmental policies, requiring skills in data analysis, report writing, and familiarity with tools like GIS and sampling equipment.

Is it hard to get a job in entry level environmental science right now?

Entry level environmental science jobs are competitive but accessible for recent graduates with relevant skills such as data analysis, fieldwork, and knowledge of environmental regulations. Job availability depends on regional demand, industry growth, and the candidate's qualifications, including certifications like GIS or environmental monitoring experience.

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

AspectEntry Level Environmental ScienceEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science or related fieldAssociate's degree or relevant certification, some roles may require a bachelor's
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, government agencies, consulting firmsFieldwork, sampling, data collection, laboratory analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, environmental consulting firmsEnvironmental consulting, government agencies, industrial sites
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Environmental Science roles typically require a bachelor's degree and involve research, analysis, and project planning in various environmental settings. Environmental Technicians often focus on field sampling and data collection, sometimes with an associate's degree or certification. Both roles are essential in environmental work, but they differ mainly in educational requirements and daily tasks.

What are entry level environmental science jobs?

Entry level environmental science jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the environmental science field, typically recent graduates with a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related discipline. These roles may include titles such as environmental technician, field assistant, laboratory analyst, or environmental consultant. Responsibilities often involve collecting and analyzing environmental data, assisting with fieldwork, preparing reports, and supporting environmental monitoring or remediation projects. These positions provide valuable hands-on experience and are a stepping stone to more advanced roles in environmental science.

What types of projects do entry-level environmental scientists typically work on, and how much fieldwork is involved?

Entry-level environmental scientists often assist with site assessments, environmental monitoring, data collection, and report preparation for projects such as pollution investigations, habitat restoration, or regulatory compliance. The amount of fieldwork varies by employer and project, but you can expect a mix of office-based analysis and on-site sampling or observation, sometimes requiring travel or outdoor work in various weather conditions. These projects offer valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to collaborate with engineers, senior scientists, and regulatory agencies, helping you build both technical and teamwork skills early in your career.
More about Entry Level Environmental Science jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Science jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Environmental Science jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Environmental Science job openings:
Entry Level Environmental Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Science job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,342 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Entry-Level Laboratory Technician, TCLP (Monday - Friday 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM)

Sterling Labs

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Description:

Position Overview

The Laboratory Technician in TCLP will be responsible for conducting a variety of laboratory tests and analyses to support environmental testing. This role involves a significant focus on TCLP analysis, utilizing established laboratory methods and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).


Key Responsibilities

  • Set up, conduct, and document qualitative and quantitative analyses of solid and soil samples.
  • Prepare, digest, and analyze samples, ensuring consistency with lab SOPs.
  • Perform Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) (76.5%), Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP) (13.5%), and Zero-Headspace Extraction (ZHE) (10%) tests.
  • Carry out wet chemistry procedures, including hexavalent chromium (CR6) preparation and soil pH measurement of soil samples.
  • Operate and maintain laboratory equipment (e.g., pH meters, scales, thermometers, auto-titrators, tumblers, filters, and fume hoods), and troubleshoot as necessary.
  • Monitor process parameters, evaluate anomalies, and report results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS - Element 7).
  • Ensure product quality compliance with lab standards and specifications.
  • Complete required laboratory documentation in logbooks, maintenance books, standard books, bench sheets, etc.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment, following disposal procedures according to SOPs.
  • Track and manage supplies needed for successful test runs.
  • Conduct routine hazard assessments of materials and identify any potential risks or issues with equipment or materials.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Primary Tests: Drinking Water Screens, Metals Digestions, Turbidity

Secondary Tests: TCLP and pH


Equipment and Instruments Used

XRF, grinder, pH meters, scales, thermometers, auto titrator, tumbler, filters, fume hoods.

Requirements:

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, chemistry, or biology.
  • Ability to learn laboratory information systems (LIMS), databases, and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and form conclusions.
  • Highly organized, with an ability to follow specific rules and patterns for analysis and equipment setup.

Physical Requirements

  • Prolonged periods of standing while preparing, filtering, and analyzing solid and soil samples.
  • Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle glassware, pipettes, filters, and laboratory instruments with precision.
  • Must be able to lift, carry, and move sample containers, reagents, and laboratory equipment weighing up to 25 pounds using proper and safe lifting techniques.
  • Occasional bending, reaching, and stooping to access tumblers, fume hoods, and storage shelves.
  • Must be able to visually inspect samples, measure meniscus levels, and read instrument displays accurately; specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Must be able to work safely around acids, solvents, and other hazardous laboratory chemicals while wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, safety glasses, and hearing protection when working in high-noise areas or near operating tumblers.
  • Ability to maintain focus and attention to detail during repetitive sample handling and data recording tasks.
  • Must be able to communicate clearly and professionally with coworkers and supervisors regarding workload, safety, and data quality.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.