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Entry Level Environmental Science Jobs in Pullman, WA

Assistant Scientist

Moscow, ID · On-site

$22.60/hr

In this entry-level role, you'll support daily laboratory operations by preparing reagents and ... Relaxed yet professional environment * Wellness program including bike/walk to work incentive

Entry Level Environmental Science information

See Pullman, WA salary details

$12

$21

$34

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

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level environmental science in Pullman, WA is $21.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $24.66 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Science jobs in Pullman, WA? The most popular types of Environmental Science jobs in Pullman, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Pullman, WA? For Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Pullman, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Pullman, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs in Pullman, WA are:
What cities near Pullman, WA are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Science jobs? Cities near Pullman, WA with the most Entry Level Environmental Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Science job openings in Pullman, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,709 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

$22.60/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description

We're hiring a detail-oriented Assistant Scientist to join our team. In this entry-level role, you'll support daily laboratory operations by preparing reagents and solutions, managing samples and laboratory supplies, performing quality control (QC) data reviews, and assisting scientists with a variety of laboratory tasks. Your work will help keep our laboratory running efficiently while building valuable hands-on experience. 


Starting Pay: $22.60 per hour, DOE


This position is on-site only in Moscow, Idaho.


About Us

Alturas Analytics, Inc. is a contract research organization, bioanalytical laboratory providing personalized MS/MS bioanalytical services to the pharma and biotech industries worldwide. We are a growing, privately owned company working with our collaborators to aid in the treatment and cure of disease. Joining the Alturas team means becoming a part of a supportive and passionate community. Our staff consists of talented, dedicated individuals who are committed to delivering the highest quality of service to our clients. Our goal is simple - to ensure that Alturas employees thrive so that we can do the best possible work in our field, ensuring greater care for our world.


Benefits

  • We pay 100% of your premiums for health, dental, and vision insurance and a portion of the premium for dependent coverage
  • PTO, paid sick time and paid holidays
  • Bonus program based on company-wide goals
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) (with company match) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options - including Dependent Care
  • Life insurance and short- and long-term disability at no cost to you
  • Safe Harbor 401k with an automatic 3% employer contribution with additional 1% match option
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) focused on mental health
  • Voluntary Life, AD&D, Critical Illness and Accident insurance

Perks

  • Work-life balance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development and promotion
  • Relaxed yet professional environment
  • Wellness program including bike/walk to work incentive
  • Charitable donation matching and paid time off for volunteering
  • Monthly catered lunches, holiday celebrations, unlimited (good) coffee, beverages, snacks and more!

Position Summary:

The Assistant Scientist is an entry-level position that serves as the training pathway to becoming an Associate Scientist. In this role, employees begin by learning and performing laboratory support functions while developing the technical skills and experience needed to transition into an Associate Scientist position. 


Essential Duties and Tasks:

  • Maintains all lab supplies (including purchase, receipt, stock, inventory, and disposal)
  • Prepares various reagents and solutions for laboratory use
  • Assists laboratory personnel to enable efficient laboratory operations
  • Performs routine facility maintenance and inspections
  • Cleans laboratory glassware
  • Performs sample custodian duties including tracking, verifying and distribution of samples
  • Performs QC review of data


Additional Duties and Tasks:

  • Performs other duties as needed or assigned



Requirements

Education and Experience Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in a physical, biological or chemistry science required
  • Laboratory coursework required
  • 1-3 years of work experience preferred
  • Working knowledge of MS Office


Skills and Abilities Requirements:

  • Skills in verbal and written communication
  • Ability to interpret procedures, regulations and guidelines 
  • Ability to enter data and work accurately with computers


Physical Requirements:

  • Sitting up to 1/3 of the time
  • Working in front of a computer monitor up to 2/3 of the time
  • Walking up to 1/3 of the time between departments/offices
  • Standing up to 2/3 of the time
  • Using hands to handle or feel up to 2/3 of the time
  • Reaching with hands and arms up to 2/3 of the time
  • Talking or hearing less than 1/3 of the time
  • Climbing or balancing less than 1/3 of the time
  • Stooping or kneeling less than 1/3 of the time
  • Lifting up to 10 lbs. up to 2/3 of the time 
  • Lifting up to 25 lbs. less than 2/3 of the time 
  • Lifting up to 50 lbs. less than 2/3 of the time
  • Close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less) needed to read small labels

About the Area

Located in a vibrant town and home to the University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho is a friendly community with beautiful natural surroundings and a lively cultural scene. You'll enjoy walkable streets, live music, and access to some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in the country. The Palouse area is made up of several neighboring towns, including Pullman, Washington, where you'll find a bustling college town environment with diverse dining options, events for everyone, and the Washington State University campus.


Community Involvement

Our goal is to build an enduring company of integrity in an environment that provides rewarding career paths and empowers individuals to engage in the well-being of the communities in which they reside. We seek to inspire the next generation of scientists through involvement of educational programs at every level. From making science fun for elementary-aged students, active participation in science fairs and guest lecturing at the undergraduate university level, we are stepping towards fostering a generation where science is exciting and an integral component of everyday life.


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.