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Entry Level Environmental Scientist Jobs in Reston, VA

Hadronts

Entry Level Software Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

... platforms in a small team environment using a variety of software languages and protocols ... science discipline from an accredited college (or) university and 1 to 2 years of related ...

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All JobsEnvironmental Scientist JobsEntry Level Environmental Scientist JobsEntry Level Environmental Scientist Jobs in Reston, VA

Entry Level Environmental Scientist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$42.7K

$87.5K

$128K

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

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level environmental scientist in Reston, VA is $87,518.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $102,500.00 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.

More about Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Scientist jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Environmental Scientist jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs in Reston, VA?

For Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Entry Level Environmental Scientist job openings:

Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Scientist job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,518 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Environmental Scientist 1

Apex Companies

Rockville, MD

$76K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Join our Rockville, MD team as an Environmental Scientist 1 and gain hands-on experience supporting a wide range of environmental projects. This is a highly field-focused role, with approximately 90% of your time spent conducting investigations and sampling at commercial construction sites and other project locations. You'll work with soil, groundwater, air, and other environmental media while gaining exposure to Phase I/II ESAs, due diligence, and environmental field investigations.

Your Responsibilities as an Environmental Scientist 1 - Staff Scientist:

  • Conduct environmental field investigations and collect soil, groundwater, air, and other environmental samples.
  • Perform field reconnaissance and support Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs).
  • Support environmental projects at commercial construction sites, including construction-based fieldwork and field investigations.
  • Gather, document, and upload field data and observations.
  • Analyze and interpret field data and assist with preparing technical reports using established templates.
  • Maintain and organize field equipment and supplies.
  • Work primarily in the field (90%), with office time as needed for data uploads, equipment collection, report preparation, and other project support.
  • Participate in emergency response work, which may occasionally require off-hours or weekend availability.

What we're looking for:

  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Geology, or a related scientific field.
  • Experience with environmental field sampling, field investigations, or data collection preferred.
  • Familiarity with soil, groundwater, air, and/or other environmental sampling.
  • Experience or coursework related to Phase I/II ESAs, environmental due diligence, or construction-related environmental work is a plus.
  • 40hr HAZWOPER certification preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately document field data.
  • Technical writing and Microsoft 365 skills.
  • Valid driver's license, good driving history, and reliable personal transportation are required. Mileage reimbursement is provided for business travel.

Schedule & Travel:

  • This is a highly field-oriented position, with approximately 90% of the work performed in the field.
  • Most fieldwork is Monday through Friday, approximately 7:00 AM-3:00 PM, hours will vary based on projects
  • Emergency response work may occasionally require off-hours and weekend availability.
  • When not working in the field, employees are expected to work from the Rockville office.

As an Environmental Scientist, you will support a variety of environmental and industrial hygiene projects with a strong focus on field work. You will spend the majority of your time in the field conducting inspections, sampling, and project support activities for commercial, industrial, and government clients throughout the DMV area.

Your responsibilities may include:

  • Conduct hazardous materials building surveys, including asbestos-related inspections and assessments.
  • Perform water damage assessments, mold inspections, and mold sampling.
  • Support asbestos abatement projects through monitoring and field observations.
  • Collect environmental samples, including drinking water, radon, air, soil, and building material samples as needed.
  • Gather, analyze, and interpret field data to support project conclusions.
  • Prepare technical reports and input data into project templates.
  • Follow project scopes, safety procedures, and technical guidance from project managers and senior staff.
  • Support a variety of environmental projects while developing technical expertise through hands-on experience.

What We're Looking For:

  • Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Geology, or a related scientific field.
  • Experience in environmental field sampling, inspections, or data collection (entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply).
  • Experience with or knowledge of industrial hygiene, hazardous materials, or environmental sampling is a plus.
  • Certifications such as Asbestos Inspector, HAZWOPER, or NIOSH 582 are highly desirable.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to collect accurate field data.
  • Ability to write technical reports and communicate findings clearly.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications.
  • Valid driver's license, good driving history, and reliable transportation are required.

Why You'll Love Working for Us

  • Company-subsidized medical and dental insurance.
  • Company-paid life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance.
  • 401(k) match and tuition assistance.
  • Cross-training and opportunities to work on a variety of environmental projects.
  • Performance-based bonuses and other incentives.
  • Opportunities for continued technical and professional development.
  • The opportunity to work alongside some of the best and brightest professionals in the environmental industry.
  • Join a 2,000+ employee national firm with 70+ locations across the United States.

#LI-MW1

Apex Job Title: Scientist 1 - Staff Scientist

Req ID: 

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