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Entry Level Nepa Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Nepa information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Nepa position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) Specialist, you need a solid understanding of environmental regulations, research and analysis skills, and a relevant bachelor's degree in environmental science, policy, or a related field. Familiarity with environmental impact assessment tools, GIS software, and technical writing is highly beneficial, with some employers preferring candidates who have completed NEPA training or possess certifications like the Environmental Professional Intern designation. Strong communication, attention to detail, and organizational skills help you stand out when preparing reports and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams. These abilities are crucial for ensuring compliance with environmental policies and producing thorough, high-quality assessments in a collaborative setting.

What are typical responsibilities for someone in an Entry Level NEPA position?

In an Entry Level NEPA position, your main responsibilities generally include supporting the preparation of environmental documentation, conducting research and data analysis, and assisting with fieldwork activities. You’ll often help draft sections of Environmental Assessments (EAs) and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs), coordinate with other team members, and gather relevant information from various stakeholders. Over time, you may also help track project timelines and ensure all documentation meets regulatory requirements. This is a great opportunity to gain experience with environmental review processes, while developing technical and project coordination skills that are highly valued in the field.

What is an Entry Level NEPA job?

An Entry Level NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act) job involves assisting in the preparation of environmental assessments and impact statements to ensure compliance with federal regulations. Responsibilities may include conducting research, collecting data, drafting reports, and supporting senior environmental professionals in reviewing project impacts. These roles are often found in government agencies, consulting firms, or nonprofit organizations. Strong analytical skills, knowledge of environmental laws, and attention to detail are important for success in this field.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Nepa jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Nepa job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nepa job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Entry Level Environmental Scientist

Entry Level Environmental Scientist

Dewberry

Glen Allen, VA

$63K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Dewberry rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Environmental Scientist in our Richmond, VA office. This is an excellent career opportunity for an enthusiastic and talented individual to join a team of outstanding professionals. This full-time opening will provide the applicant with the opportunity to work as part of a team in all facets of environmental services including wetland science, regulatory permitting, and NEPA documentation. The successful candidate will have 0-3 years of experience. 

Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 60 locations and 2,500 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors is our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a new graduate, you’ll have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects at the forefront of the industry. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call “Dewberry at Work,” that have inspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century.


  • Plan and conduct field delineations of wetlands and Waters of the US.
  • Prepare delineation reports, functional assessments, mitigation plans, and jurisdictional determinations.
  • Prepare permit applications under Sections 404/401 of the Clean Water Act.
  • Coordinate with state, federal, and local regulators as appropriate.
  • Conduct vegetation and wildlife habitat surveys.
  • Conduct threatened and endangered species surveys.
  • Research and write NEPA documents.
  • Prepare consultations with the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
  • Prepare Section 106 consultations with the State Historic Preservation Officer.
  • Conduct permit compliance monitoring and assist in conducting environmental site assessments.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD, Microstation and /or GIS.

  • Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Geology, or a related field.
  • 0-3 years of related experience.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Proficiency in MS Office software.
  • Desire to work in a team environment.
  • Local Virginia, Maryland and/or District of Columbia experience and certified arborist are a plus.

*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.

*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.

*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry, will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry’s background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.

Notice to Third Party Recruiters:  Dewberry only compensates job placement recruiters that have a valid Dewberry-approved written agreement in place for recruiting services. Dewberry does not compensate third party recruiters for unsolicited job placement candidate information.


The projected range for this position is $63,000 - $65,200 annually. Depending upon other factors, i.e., skills, experience, location, market conditions, the range may vary slightly.


As an entry-level hire, you’ll be part of a class of peers with 0-1 year of professional experience. Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and team building activities led by an advisory team to:

  • Form lasting connections with peers in your class.
  • Gain a better understanding of career growth and meaningful opportunities to align with your professional goals.
  • Expand your knowledge of Dewberry and what we do.

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