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Entry Level Microplastics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Microplastics information

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$12

$16

$22

How much do entry level microplastics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level microplastics in the United States is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Microplastics Researcher, you generally need a background in environmental science, chemistry, or biology, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, microscopy, spectrometry, and data analysis software such as R or Python is commonly required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help you excel in data collection, reporting, and teamwork. These skills are essential for producing accurate research results and contributing to solutions for microplastic pollution.

What are the typical daily tasks for an entry level microplastics researcher and how do they contribute to broader environmental studies?

As an entry level microplastics researcher, your daily tasks often include collecting environmental samples (such as water, soil, or biota), preparing and analyzing them in the laboratory using techniques like microscopy or spectroscopy, and recording detailed data. You'll also assist with maintaining laboratory equipment and ensuring samples are processed according to protocols. Collaboration with senior researchers and data analysts is common, as your findings contribute to larger projects assessing the sources, distribution, and impacts of microplastics. This hands-on work is crucial for informing environmental policies and remediation strategies.

What are entry level microplastics jobs?

Entry level microplastics jobs are positions suited for individuals who are new to the field of environmental science and focus on the study, detection, and analysis of microplastics in various environments. These roles may involve laboratory work, field sampling, data analysis, and assisting with research on the sources, distribution, and impacts of microplastics. Candidates typically need a background in environmental science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. These jobs provide hands-on experience and are a stepping stone toward more advanced research or environmental consulting roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Microplastics vs Entry Level Marine Biologist?

AspectEntry Level MicroplasticsEntry Level Marine Biologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer a relevant bachelor's degreeBachelor's degree in Marine Biology, Environmental Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, field sampling sites, research facilitiesResearch vessels, laboratories, coastal and marine environments
Industry UsageEnvironmental research, pollution monitoring, laboratory analysisMarine conservation, research, environmental assessment

Entry Level Microplastics roles focus on sampling, analyzing plastic particles in environments, often requiring laboratory skills and environmental knowledge. Entry Level Marine Biologists have broader responsibilities in studying marine ecosystems, requiring a relevant degree and fieldwork experience. Both roles are essential in environmental protection but differ in scope and specific skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microplastics jobs? The most popular types of Microplastics jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Microplastics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,227 per year, or $16.9 per hour.
Zero Waste Campaign Associate

Zero Waste Campaign Associate

The Public Interest Network

Portland, OR • On-site

$38.25K - $39.50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

PIRG is hiring a Campaign Associate to help drive our campaigns to Break the Waste Cycle and move us towards a "circular" or "zero waste" economy in which less is consumed and all materials are reused, recycled and composted. 

Our country has a waste problem. Natural resources are continually extracted to produce goods that are used - often just once - before they are thrown into landfills, incinerators or the natural environment. This system of consumption and disposal results in the waste of precious resources and in pollution that threatens our health, environment and the global climate.

To protect public health and the environment, conserve natural resources and landscapes, and address the mounting crisis of climate change, America needs to move toward an economic system characterized by zero waste. 

Our Zero Waste Campaign Associate will support campaigns to phase out fast fashion, reduce needless plastic waste, protect us from microplastics and other zero waste efforts.
  • Build powerful coalitions: Reach out to a broad range of organizations and affected constituency groups across the political spectrum to demonstrate support for our campaign goals.
  • Earn traditional media and social media attention: Organize news conferences and write opinion pieces. Build a following on social media for your campaign.
  • Organize events and work with volunteers. Organize webinars, community events and public meetings. Recruit organizations and members of the public to attend and participate.
  • Research and write reports: Catalog and analyze data relevant to the issue and our policy proposals to help influence public debate and earn media attention for our cause.
  • Recruit new people to your team: Help build your team by recruiting volunteers, interns and full-time staff.
  • Run a grassroots campaign office each summer: Run a campaign office for the summer, knocking on doors to raise money to support our campaigns, build our organization and membership, and help build critical and timely grassroots support to win key campaigns. Your responsibilities will include meeting your own fundraising goals and managing a team of paid staff. You may be assigned to a different office location for the summer and should be flexible to move.
We are seeking a Campaign Associate who will spearhead this campaign and work with our experienced team of advocates, researchers, and digital and communications experts. Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply. Though we expect you to take your campaign and run with it, we provide training on advocacy and organizing skills, as well as oversight by an experienced advocate. Ideal candidates will have leadership experience, top-notch writing and public speaking skills, an eagerness to learn, and be ready for a challenge. We value organizing experience, including building campus or community groups.
Compensation and Benefits
The target annual compensation for this position is $38,250 - $39,500. PIRG offers an excellent benefits package. Our benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents, time off, a commuter benefit program, a 401(k) plan with employer match, parental leave, long term disability insurance, and may include needs-based student loan assistance. We also offer an excellent training program and opportunities for advancement. 

Why work with PIRG? Check out 10 reasons: https://pirg.org/why-work-with-us/. 

Our Mission and Values
PIRG is part of The Public Interest Network, which operates and supports organizations committed to a shared vision of a better world and a strategic approach to social change. Visit https://pirg.org/core-values/ for things you should know about our network when you apply.

Please do not use AI when drafting your application. We want to know how you think and write.

PIRG is an equal opportunity employer.