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Entry Level Environmental Science Jobs in Ames, IA

Clean Harbors

CleanPack Chemist (CDL)

Johnston, IA · On-site

$25/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

CleanPack Chemist (CDL)

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$25/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

CleanPack Chemist (CDL)

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$25/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

CleanPack Chemist (CDL)

Elkhart, IA · On-site

$25/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

CleanPack Chemist (CDL)

Polk City, IA · On-site

$25/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

Retail Technician (CDL)

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

Retail Technician (CDL)

Polk City, IA · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

Retail Technician (CDL)

Elkhart, IA · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

Retail Technician (CDL)

Johnston, IA · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

Retail Technician (CDL)

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

Retail Technician (CDL)

Polk City, IA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

Retail Technician (CDL)

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

Clean Harbors

Retail Technician (CDL)

Johnston, IA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

... Natural Science * Previous experience in Environmental Services (i.e. remediation, abatement, emergency spill response, etc.) Our Environmental Field Chemist is an entry level position into an ...

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Entry Level Environmental Science information

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$34

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental science in Ames, IA is $21.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 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.
More about Entry Level Environmental Science jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Science jobs in Ames, IA?

The most popular types of Environmental Science jobs in Ames, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Ames, IA?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Ames, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Ames, IA are:

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA 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 Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,784 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Entry Level Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Urbandale, IA • On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) supports industry-leading clients through the full software development lifecycle to build cutting-edge precision agriculture, machine guidance, vehicle automation and autonomy applications. We are seeking passionate, talented engineers to work on exciting projects using the latest tools and technologies including robotics, computer-vision, machine learning, IoT, cloud computing, and much more. Collaborate with a team of industry experts onsite at our client's world-class engineering center and contribute to developing innovative solutions that drive sustainable agriculture practices.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Entry Level Software Engineer
This position is associated with developing and maintaining system automation tests for the next generation of embedded controllers. Candidates should be able to collaborate with development teams to deliver a full suite of automated tests to ensure consistent high code quality and features.
Responsibilities
  • Write and maintain system-level automated tests written in Python.
  • Contribute to test strategy and architecture as required
  • Debug intermittent test failures to determine root cause, and assign software defects as needed.
  • Working to improve test yield of existing test cases. This may mean collaborating with software developers and triaging test failures.
  • Coordinate the technical execution of test scripting with additional resources.
  • Attend regular meetings and stand-ups in order to respond to changing needs.
  • Attend meetings in-person with development teams to identify automation testing needs.
  • Attend meetings with Product Test Leads to define the test strategy, and steps to execute for a given test case.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering. Other degrees are considered if relevant experience exists.
  • Professional proficiency in Python with demonstrated experience in automation, testing, or software development.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Desired Attributes
  • General machine knowledge of agriculture or off-road equipment and machinery
  • Practical working knowledge and application of UDP, TCP/IP, CAN, or other networking communication protocols.
  • Basic experience with microcontrollers such as Arduino, RaspberryPi, or more complex embedded systems.
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude
  • Strong mathematical and analytical problem-solving skills
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment
  • Experience with Linux Ubuntu
  • Experience with Bash scripting.
  • Experience with C++ or Qt

VISA Sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $65,000-$90,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
#ZR
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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