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Entry Level Environmental Science Jobs in Minnesota

Lab Technician

Elk River, MN · On-site

$20 - $26.75/hr

... Environmental Science background • Experience with laboratory equipment and testing procedures ... teams • Entry-level opportunity with training provided Education / Experience • Bachelor ...

Field Tech 1

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$22.50/hr

... in environmental testing and scientific services, is looking for an energetic, hands-on individual to join our Field Air Sampling Team in Minneapolis, MN as an Entry-Level Stack Tester (Field ...

... science solutions. * Present and defend results to leadership audiences, both technical and non ... Passion in modern technology and ability to work in a start-up environment. * Efficient on Jupyter ...

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Entry Level Environmental Science information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$21

$34

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental science in Minnesota is $21.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $24.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 the EPA's Environmental Professional Certification or OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.

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 location, industry demand, and individual qualifications, with opportunities often found in government agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Science jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Environmental Science jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Minnesota?

For Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Entry Level Environmental Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Science job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,818 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Scientist 2

American Engineering Testing Inc

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


American Engineering Testing rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

About Us


At American Engineering Testing (AET), we believe that people are the heart of innovation. We create an environment that values teamwork, curiosity, and continuous improvement while delivering innovative engineering and consulting solutions. As a 100% employee-owned firm, we deliver comprehensive testing, analysis, and design to reduce uncertainty in construction projects and offer rewarding work, exceptional training, and career development opportunities.


AET is hiring a mid-level experienced Environmental Scientist.


Job Summary

The Environmental Scientist 2 role is a mid-level position responsible for conducting and managing environmental investigations, regulatory compliance assessments, and technical reporting. This position involves primarily office work with limited opportunities for field work, with increased independence and responsibility for project execution. The Environmental Scientist 2 works closely with senior scientists and project managers, supporting client projects by analyzing environmental data, ensuring compliance with regulations, and providing technical recommendations.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Reasonable accommodations or workable solutions may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

  • Plan and execute environmental site assessments (Phase I and II) and remediation projects.
  • Perform field investigations, including soil, water, air, and hazardous materials sampling, while adhering to industry and regulatory standards.
  • Conduct data analysis and interpret environmental results to develop recommendations for remediation and compliance solutions.
  • Prepare comprehensive technical reports, including regulatory documentation, site investigation findings, and remedial action plans.
  • Assist in environmental permitting processes and compliance monitoring for clients.
  • Provide technical support to clients on environmental regulatory requirements, such as RCRA, CERCLA, Clean Water Act, and Clean Air Act compliance.
  • Oversee subcontractors, including drilling and remediation contractors, ensuring project scope and safety requirements are met.
  • Develop conceptual site models (CSM) to assess environmental conditions and potential contaminant pathways.
  • Use GIS, environmental modeling software, and data visualization tools to support project analysis and reporting.
  • Communicate project findings and technical insights effectively to internal teams, clients, and regulatory agencies.
  • Mentor junior scientists and assist in training new hires on field methodologies and data interpretation.
  • Support business development efforts by contributing to proposals, cost estimates, and client meetings.

Supervisory Responsibility

  • May provide mentorship and training to entry-level Environmental Scientists and field personnel.

Required Qualifications and Education Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Geology, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
  • 2-5 years of relevant experience in environmental consulting, site investigations, regulatory compliance, or remediation.
  • OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER certification (or ability to obtain within six months of hire).
  • Working knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental regulations, including experience with regulatory reporting.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with GIS, AutoCAD, or environmental modeling software preferred.
  • Ability to analyze environmental data, prepare technical reports, and provide regulatory guidance.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills to engage with clients, regulatory agencies, and internal teams.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to field sites as required.


Preferred Skills

  • Experience leading small-scale environmental investigations or compliance audits.
  • Familiarity with risk assessment methodologies and contaminant fate and transport modeling.
  • Professional Geologist (PG) or ability to obtain within 12 months.
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills in the field and office settings.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.

Pay Transparency

Base compensation is expected to be in the range of $80,000 – $90,000 annually based on skill set and experience. AET offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health benefits, insurance, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), long-term savings, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Work Environment

This job primarily operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and filing cabinets. This position will occasionally be required to operate in a field environment.


Other Duties  

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Third Party Disclosure

Notice to Third Party Agencies: AET does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiting firms. Absent a signed Service Agreement by AET’s Chief People Officer (CPO), AET reserves the right to pursue and hire these candidates without financial obligation to recruiters or agencies.


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