2

Entry Level Environmental Science Jobs in Lombard, IL

Building trusted relationships with our network of engineering and sciences consultants under our ... Experience collaborating in a team-oriented environment * Interpersonal and verbal communication ...

Building trusted relationships with our network of engineering and sciences consultants under our ... Experience collaborating in a team-oriented environment * Interpersonal and verbal communication ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Environmental Science information

See Lombard, IL salary details

$12

$21

$34

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental science in Lombard, IL is $21.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $24.86 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 Lombard, IL?

The most popular types of Environmental Science jobs in Lombard, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Lombard, IL?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Lombard, IL are:

What cities near Lombard, IL are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs?

Cities near Lombard, IL with the most Entry Level Environmental Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Science job openings in Lombard, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $45,031 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Entry Level Environmental Engineer/Scientist

GZA GeoEnvironmental

Oak Brook, IL โ€ข On-site

$66K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc. (GZA) is currently seeking an Entry Level Environmental Engineer/Scientist with 1-2 years of consulting experience to support our growing environmental due diligence, site investigation and remediation, and regulatory compliance and permitting practice in our Oak Brook, Illinois, office. The successful candidate will have a solid educational background and must be self-motivated with a professional attitude.
As an Entry Level Environmental Engineer/Scientist, you will work on a fast-paced team of Scientists, Engineers, Project Managers, and Principals. You will perform extensive fieldwork and gain experience in field documentation with drilling teams, soil/groundwater/soil vapor sampling, monitoring well installations, remediation/construction field documentation, and environmental regulatory compliance and permitting projects. Our close-knit culture here at GZA will allow you to grow professionally. You will be mentored by seasoned professionals, who will in turn look to you to share technical knowledge and ideas. Our success relies on this collaborative environment. GZA emphasizes a One Company environment, and as a member of our team, you may be asked to assist on projects and tasks outside of your primary responsibilities.
Between field work projects, you will work in a professional office setting, preparing detailed and accurate field documentation, data analysis, and reporting. In addition, you may be exposed to our Water Quality, Ecological Services, and Geotechnical practices in our Oak Brook and Chicago offices.
What You Will Be Bringing:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Engineering, Geology, Environmental Science, or related field (Master's Degree a plus)
  • 1-2 years of related environmental engineering experience
  • Strong attention to detail with excellent analytical capabilities
  • Perform technical execution of projects under the supervision of project managers
  • Ability to follow directions, and work independently or in a team setting
  • Strong communication skills, problem solving, and organizational skills
  • Working knowledge of computers and Microsoft Office suite
  • Availability to work Monday through Friday and some evenings and weekends
  • Ability to travel locally and regionally
  • A valid driver's license in good standing
  • 40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER and FE/EIT certification a plus
  • Database, CADD, or ArcGIS a plus

The base salary for this position may range between $66,000 and $80,000. The actual base salary and total compensation will depend on many factors, including location, candidate experience, education, professional licensure, and other qualifications.
What You Will Be Getting:
  • Professional development and a focus on continued education and learning (including tuition reimbursement).
  • Opportunity to work in a wide range of engineering, manufacturing, and industrial environments.
  • Flexible hybrid work environment.
  • Small firm feel with a larger firm reputation and resources.
  • Mentorship from experts in the industry.
  • Generous, company-subsidized benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) retirement plan.

GZA is an employee-owned multidisciplinary engineering consulting firm with a history of more than 60 years of providing innovative engineering solutions to improve the natural and built environments. We are an ENR Top 500 Design firm focused on environmental, geotechnical, water, ecological, and construction management services. With a staff of interrelated professionals dedicated to providing high-level expertise on complex projects above, below, and at ground-level, GZA's experts provide seamless integration across practice areas, client type, and project location.
GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc. is an Affirmative/Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, citizenship status, marital or veteran status, age or other protected status.
Note to Staffing Agencies:
GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies, recruiting firms, or other third parties. All unsolicited resumes will be considered a gift, and GZA will not be obligated to pay a referral fee. GZA explicitly reserves the right to hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. This policy is in place to ensure we respect the relationships with our preferred vendors and avoid any potential misunderstandings.
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.