2

Entry Level Phd Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Phd information

What are entry level PhD jobs?

Entry level PhD jobs are positions designed for individuals who have recently completed their doctoral studies and are beginning their professional careers. These jobs typically require advanced research, analytical, or technical skills developed during a PhD program and may include roles in academia, industry, government, or nonprofit sectors. Examples of entry level PhD jobs include postdoctoral researcher, data scientist, research scientist, policy analyst, and consultant. While the specific requirements and responsibilities vary by field, these positions offer opportunities to apply specialized knowledge and begin building a professional track record.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level PhDs transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Entry-level PhDs often encounter challenges adjusting to the faster-paced, results-oriented environment of industry compared to academia. Adapting to collaborative, cross-functional teams and learning to communicate technical findings to non-expert stakeholders is crucial. Additionally, shifting focus from independent research to project-based work with clear deliverables may require new time management and prioritization skills. However, these challenges present excellent opportunities for professional growth and skill development in a supportive team setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level PhD professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level PhD professional, you need advanced research skills, subject matter expertise, and a doctoral degree in your field. Familiarity with specialized software, statistical tools, and laboratory or data analysis systems is commonly required depending on the discipline. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative mindset help set you apart in multidisciplinary environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovation, contributing to complex projects, and integrating effectively into research or industry teams.

What is the difference between Entry Level Phd vs Research Assistant?

AspectEntry Level PhdResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsPhD or near completionBachelor's or Master's, sometimes pursuing PhD
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research labs, universitiesResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, some industry R&DUniversities, government agencies, private sector
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles for PhD holdersEntry-level research roles for those with advanced degrees

Entry Level Phd positions typically require candidates to have completed or be close to completing a PhD, often working in academic or research environments. Research Assistants usually hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree and support research projects. While both roles involve research activities, Entry Level Phd roles are geared toward recent PhD graduates or candidates, whereas Research Assistants often have less advanced degrees but support similar research tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Phd jobs in Missouri?

The most popular types of Phd jobs in Missouri are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Phd jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Phd jobs in Missouri are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Phd job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution.

Geotechnical Engineer (Entry-Level)

Shannon & Wilson, Inc.

Saint Louis, MO โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
  • Perform geotechnical engineering and geological analyses and calculations.
  • Prepare and write engineering and other reports.
  • Perform field explorations, collection of samples, geologic reconnaissance, and mapping.
  • Perform with construction observation on job sites and prepare summary logs and other documentation.
  • Perform geotechnical lab testing and communicate results.
  • Interact and communicate with clients, vendors, and staff at all levels.
  • Support marketing activities, including preparation of cost proposals.
  • Follow Shannon & Wilson's Quality Assurance policy.
  • Follow and promote Shannon and Wilson's Health and Safety and Loss Prevention policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

Requirements
  • BS in Civil Engineering and MS or PhD Degree in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • 0 - 6 years of experience in Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Have obtained or in process of receiving a Engineer-in-Training Certificate
  • On track to obtain Professional Engineering (PE) License.
  • Work experience (and/or coursework) in one or more of the following areas: soil mechanics; rock mechanics; rock and soil slope stability; shallow and deep foundations; tunneling; microtunneling; seismic design; earthquake engineering; and retaining structures.
  • Some knowledge or experience of field/construction observation in one or more of the following areas: logging geotechnical explorations, observation of pile driving operations, observations of earthwork activities, installation and recording of geotechnical instrumentation, field reconnaissance, and/or underground work.

Level Placement
Typically, depending on an applicant's education, experience, other qualifications they possess, if they are a fit for the company and local office culture, and the current business needs, an Entry-Level Geotechnical Engineer typically would be placed at a Shannon & Wilson Professional I, II, III, or IV level.
Shannon & Wilson is committed to providing a comprehensive total rewards package that includes the following benefits:
  • Employee stock ownership
  • Medical, prescription, vision, dental, long-term care and life insurance plans are offered to employees (and their families).
  • Pre-tax health and daycare FSA
  • Profit sharing and 401(k) plans with annual safe-harbor contributions
  • 10 - 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees, based on years of experience (prorated for part-time employment)
  • Sick leave accrues based on state requirements
  • 9 paid holidays per year + 1 personal holiday
  • Paid volunteer day
  • Paid time off for bereavement and jury duty
  • Two weeks of paid parental leave
  • Lunch & Live wellness webinars and an Employee Assistance Program
  • Mentorship Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free parking

Shannon & Wilson is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Shannon & Wilson participates in the E-Verify program.
Please note that non-solicited resumes from external recruitment agencies will not be considered as introductions to our business, unless a preapproved agreement is in place and the external recruitment agency has been engaged to work on this specific vacancy.