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Entry Level Environmental Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$77K - $101K/yr

Your Opportunity Stantec is seeking an enthusiastic entry level environmental scientist to join our team of Nature-based Solutions professionals. The position will assist in the completion of project ...

Environmental Scientist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$77K - $101K/yr

Your Opportunity Stantec is seeking an enthusiastic entry level environmental scientist to join our team of Nature-based Solutions professionals. The position will assist in the completion of project ...

Be Seen First

Entry Level Environmental Field Technician Full Time San Francisco, CA, US Salary Range: $25.00 To ... Recent Graduate with BA/BS in environmental sciences, health & safety, industrial hygiene or ...

Be Seen First

Entry Level Environmental Field Technician Full Time San Francisco, CA, US Salary Range: $25.00 To ... Recent Graduate with BA/BS in environmental sciences, health & safety, industrial hygiene or ...

Environmental Scientist

FL · On-site +1

$72K - $95K/yr

Metric Engineering, Inc. is seeking entry level/junior scientist candidates with 0-3 years of professional experience for a full-time Environmental Scientist or Environmental Specialist position ...

Environmental Scientist / Geologist

Austin, TX · Hybrid

$74K - $97K/yr

Tetra Tech is seeking an Entry-Level Environmental Scientist to support environmental investigation, compliance, permitting, and reporting projects for oil and gas clients. The selected candidate ...

New

Entry Level Environmental Technician - Oakland, California Intertek, a leading provider of quality ... AS or BS Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Geology, Biology, Chemistry, or some ...

Entry Level Environmental Technician - Oakland, California Intertek, a leading provider of quality ... AS or BS Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Geology, Biology, Chemistry, or some ...

Environmental Scientist 1

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$80K - $106K/yr

Apex is seeking entry-level Environmental Field Scientists that will be responsible for conducting comprehensive on-site environmental assessments at various operational sites to ensure compliance ...

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Entry Level Environmental Scientist information

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$41K

$84.1K

$123K

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level environmental scientist in the United States is $84,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Does an Entry-Level Environmental Scientist Do?

The job of an entry-level environmental scientist is to perform research and analysis on the environment. They typically work under supervision or on a team of senior-level scientists. An entry-level environmental scientist may work in the field on sample collection or facility inspection or test samples in a lab in order to or assess the presence of hazardous substances or pollution in the water, land, or air. These research projects look for potential solutions to pollution, ways to prevent health hazards, or methods to increase sustainability.

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 cities are hiring for Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Environmental Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Environmental Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Environmental Scientist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Environmental Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,123 per year, or $40.4 per hour.
Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientist

Stantec

Chicago, IL • On-site

$77K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Stantec rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

74th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Job Description
Grounded in safety, quality, and ethics, our experts lead their fields and guide our work with rigor, a creative spirit, and vision for growth. Stantec is committed to fostering an inclusive community of diverse talents, backgrounds, and expertise. We're a place to apply your passion and collaborate with top environmental talents on work that's critical to our clients and the communities they support. Join a team with a company that values creativity and hard work and is involved in diverse, world class projects.
Your Opportunity
Stantec is seeking an enthusiastic entry level environmental scientist to join our team of Nature-based Solutions professionals. The position will assist in the completion of project level work to support our clients through a variety of projects including (but not limited to): watershed evaluations and flood risk mitigation, wetland and stream restoration projects, green infrastructure, native landscaping and NbS Co-benefit analysis. Primary responsibilities will be related to performing key tasks to support environmental restoration project designs, construction oversight, and yearly monitoring and reporting.
Your Key Responsibilities
  • Stream geomorphological data collection and analysis
  • Soil and water quality sampling and analysis
  • Hydrologic studies of watersheds, flood risk studies and mitigation
  • NbS Project Implementation Oversight
  • Periodic site and storm water inspections
  • Aquatic biological sample collection (lake and stream)
  • Endangered resource record reviews
  • GPS data collection and mapping support
  • ArcGIS online mapping and data collection applications
  • Assist with and prepare portions of written reports, tables, spreadsheets, databases, and maps for client and regulatory agency review
  • Work will be conducted under the supervision of a project manager or a field team leader
  • Willingness to travel and conduct fieldwork for extended periods, including overnight travel, is expected for this position. Field work may include exposure to the elements including inclement weather.

Qualifications
Qualifications - External
Your Capabilities and Credentials
The ideal candidate will have:
  • The ability to effectively communicate project status to project manager and appropriate staff
  • Strong technical writing skills
  • A working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Willingness to learn GIS, AutoCad and other design related software.
  • Ability to pass drug test, background check, physical, and must have a satisfactory driving record in accordance with the Company's driving policy
  • The ability to work independently
  • Must be an advocate for the company's and client's health and safety programs. Stantec values employee safety as the highest priority and believes in a safety-first culture.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen, alcohol screen, and baseline physical.
  • Must have a valid driver's license with a good driving record

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in an environmental (watershed studies, environmental engineering, ecology, environmental management, natural resources, wildlife biology, or related field) discipline
  • 0-3 years of environmental consulting industry experience

This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
Stantec is a place where the best and brightest come to build on each other's talents, do exciting work, and make an impact on the world around us. Join us and redefine your personal best.

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