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Entry Level Environmental Scientist Jobs in Virginia

This is an entry-level position: the Scientist performs the activities above under direct ... Maintain training and compliance in health, safety, environmental, and operational requirements.

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Entry Level Environmental Scientist information

See Virginia salary details

$40.6K

$83.4K

$121.9K

How much do entry level environmental scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level environmental scientist in Virginia is $83,402.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,400.00 and $97,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level environmental scientist do?

An Entry Level Environmental Scientist assists with research, data collection, and analysis to help assess environmental conditions and solve environmental problems. Their duties often include conducting fieldwork, collecting soil, water, or air samples, and writing reports based on their findings. They may also help ensure compliance with environmental regulations and support senior scientists with ongoing projects. This role typically serves as a starting point for a career in environmental science, providing valuable hands-on experience.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level environmental scientist expect during their first year?

As an Entry Level Environmental Scientist, you can expect to participate in fieldwork such as collecting soil, water, or air samples, assisting with site assessments, and conducting basic laboratory analysis. You'll likely support senior scientists by compiling data, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Collaboration is common, as you'll often work closely with engineers, project managers, and regulatory agencies. Early in your career, you may also help coordinate logistics for field projects and learn to use specialized equipment and software. These experiences provide a strong foundation for future advancement within the field.

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, you need a solid grounding in environmental science principles, data collection, and analysis, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental sampling instruments, and regulatory guidelines is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help candidates excel in collaborating with teams and reporting findings. These abilities are crucial for conducting accurate research, ensuring compliance, and contributing to impactful environmental solutions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Environmental Scientist vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEntry Level Environmental ScientistEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science or related field; some roles may require internshipsAssociate's or bachelor's degree in environmental technology or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, report writing, often in labs or outdoor settingsField sampling, site assessments, data collection, often outdoors
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutionsEnvironmental service companies, government agencies, industrial sites

Entry Level Environmental Scientists typically focus on data analysis, research, and reporting, requiring a bachelor's degree. Environmental Technicians mainly perform field sampling and data collection, often with an associate's or bachelor's degree. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and focus areas.

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Scientist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Environmental Scientist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Environmental Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Scientist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,402 per year, or $40.1 per hour.

Entry-level Civil or Environmental Engineer

SCS Engineers

Midlothian, VA

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


SCS Engineers rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 452 rated engineering


Job description

What we are looking for

Are you looking for a career that will make an impact globally and within your local community? SCS is at the forefront of developing sustainable environmental solutions through innovative engineering with a focus on the solid waste industry, emission reductions, and renewable energy projects.   

As an entry-level engineer, you will provide engineering/design support to the Mid-Atlantic team within our existing solid waste practice which is focused on providing engineering and environmental services to private and municipal clients in the landfill, landfill gas, air permitting, and solid waste management industries. You'll receive hands-on training and mentorship while gaining valuable experience in both the field and the office. Potential projects include landfill and other solid waste facility permitting and design (all phases, including construction plans, specifications and construction documents), engineering analysis, feasibility studies, report writing, as well as construction oversight. You will be based out of our Richmond, VA office with occasional local travel for fieldwork.

How you can make an impact

As an entry-level engineer, you will contribute to a variety of technical, regulatory, and engineering tasks, including:

  • Prepare engineering calculations in support of reports and design and permit documents.
  • Prepare engineering and permitting design drawings using AutoCAD.
  • Prepare permit applications and/or regulatory agency submittals and responses with supporting documentation.
  • Complete quality control reviews on all work (reports, design plans, design calculations, data, etc.) prior to submission.
  • Coordinate with contractors, subcontractors, and clients as directed.
  • Prepare short form site-specific health and safety plans as requested.
  • Participate in health and safety training as required.
  • Conduct and document construction quality assurance observations in the field to ensure compliance with construction documents.
  • Work may include both office and field activities, such as field meetings with clients.
  • Multi-media sampling (soil, groundwater, surface water, sediment, air) and reporting.
  • Oversight of construction activities, collection of samples, etc., as well as office activities including engineering analysis.
  • Occasional travel may be required.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science degree in civil, environmental, biosystems, or geotechnical engineering required.
  • 3 months of relevant solid waste, environmental and/or engineering internship, work and/or research experience required.
  • Basic AutoCAD and Autodesk Civil3D knowledge is preferred.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with keen attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and verbal technical communication skills.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) preferred.
  • Valid Driver's License with a driving record in good standing required.
Pay RangeUSD $70,000.00 - USD $75,000.00 /Yr.Additional InformationPlease note that our pay ranges are determined by several factors, including relevant experience, internal pay equity, and location. They do not include any of the amazing benefits of being an employee-owner, which are listed below. SCS is building a world where environmental systems and infrastructure strengthen the health, safety and resilience of communities - from reducing methane emissions at landfills to producing alternative energy, from repurposing contaminated properties to sequestering carbon. As a 100% employee-owned firm, we bring a long-term perspective, personal ownership and shared success to everything we do. We live our values every day: We care. We are a team. We are tenacious. Join us and be part of a team where your work has real impact - on the world and on your own growth. As a growing firm, we offer excellent opportunities for career advancement and a comprehensive package, including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Insurance 100% employer- funded Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and 401K including employer match Annual Bonus Program Student Debt Employer Contribution Program Paid holidays, PTO and Paid Parental Leave SCS Engineers is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). SCS provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran or disabled status. If you have questions, difficulty using our online system and/or you need an accommodation due to a disability then please contact us about your interest in employment at recruiting@scsengineers.com #LI-JM1Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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