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Entry Level Environmental Science Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

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Entry Level Environmental Science information

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$11

$19

$30

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental science in Oak Ridge, TN is $19.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you go into with environmental science?

Entry level environmental science graduates can pursue roles such as environmental technician, field analyst, or conservation assistant. These jobs often involve data collection, environmental monitoring, and reporting, requiring knowledge of laboratory tools, GIS software, and environmental regulations.

What is the lowest salary for an environmental scientist?

Entry-level environmental scientists typically earn starting salaries around $40,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on location, education, and employer. Salaries can be lower for internships or part-time roles and increase with experience and certifications such as GIS or environmental impact assessment skills.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Environmental Scientist, a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field, along with strong analytical and research skills, is essential. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as GIS), laboratory techniques, and environmental regulations is commonly required. Effective communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for accurately collecting data, interpreting findings, and collaborating on projects that address environmental challenges.

What Are Entry-Level Environmental Science Jobs?

Entry-level environmental science jobs include working in biology, geology, chemistry, education, public relations, public policy, or consulting. Your specific duties differ depending on whether you have a research job or a position in analysis or public relations, which typically requires more extensive writing and a broader knowledge of public policy, ecological law, and environmental regulations. In a research position, your responsibilities include handling sample and data collection, performing land surveys, conducting assessments of wildlife habitat and wetlands, testing and analyzing samples, and helping with studies that recommend further research or policy changes. Environmental science researchers may work at an academic or research institution, while other environmental science professionals may work for a non-profit or in private industry or government.

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 environmental science?

To start a career in environmental science, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, or a related field. Gaining practical experience through internships, volunteering, or research projects, along with developing skills in data analysis and environmental tools, can improve job prospects. Certifications such as GIS or environmental monitoring can also be beneficial for entry-level positions.

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.

Can I get an environmental science job with no degree?

Entry-level environmental science positions often require at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but some roles may be available to those without a degree if they have relevant experience, certifications, or technical skills such as GIS or laboratory work. However, many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in environmental science or related fields for more advanced or specialized roles.

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 Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Environmental Science jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN 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 Oak Ridge, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,701 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
InSite Technician (Material Handler)

InSite Technician (Material Handler)

Clean Harbors

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$14.42 - $28.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Clean Harbors rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 75 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Clean Harbors is looking for Chemical Handlers to join our safety conscious team!   

Do you enjoy...     

  • Staying active and on your feet?
  • Learning and applying knowledge about science and chemistry?  
  • Working directly with customers?

Why work for Clean Harbors?

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority, and we live it 3-6-5!   
  • Competitive wages and generous paid time off
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment 
  • Group 401K/RRSP with company matching component
  • Company paid training and tuition reimbursement
  • Company provided vehicles and equipment
  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career!

RESPONSIBILITIES

Wondering what to expect in starting a career at Clean Harbors?  

InSite Technicians perform a wide range of tasks, including:  

  • Making waste pickups throughout a customer’s facility; 
  • Conducting chemical bulking and consolidation;
  • Packaging and labeling waste products to maximize efficiency and maintain compliance; 
  • Participating in spill response on customer’s site as needed; 
  • Operating forklifts;
  • Inspecting drums for container integrity and regulatory compliance;
  • Ensuring the safe loading and unloading of waste hauling vehicles;  
  • Completing waste stream sampling and profiling.  

This position is an entry level role, but many of our leaders started in this job! With safety as our top priority, you'll get the training and support to not only succeed at your job but advance your career.

QUALIFICATIONS

What does it take to work for Clean Harbors?  

  • High School diploma or equivalent;  
  • Valid driver’s license;  
  • Grade 4 Industrial Wastewater License preferred; 
  • Willingness to complete a background check, drug test, and physical.  

To learn more about Clean Harbors, and to view and apply online for exciting opportunities in our company, visit us at https://careers.cleanharbors.com/    

Clean Harbors is the leading provider of environmental, energy, and industrial services throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Our mission is to create a safer, cleaner environment through the treatment, recycling, and disposal of hazardous materials. Come help us save the world!  

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.

Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making. 

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.


Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.

Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.


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About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US

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