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Entry Level Wastewater Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Elutions

Domain Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

... training is available. ** Entry Level Candidates are Encouraged to Apply!!!** General ... Grasp concepts related to fluid mechanics, pumping systems, wastewater treatment processes, and ...

Elutions

Domain Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

... training is available. ** Entry Level Candidates are Encouraged to Apply!!!** General ... Grasp concepts related to fluid mechanics, pumping systems, wastewater treatment processes, and ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 2 - Manassas

Manassas, VA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

... automation, water / wastewater, power controls and protection, energy management, and ... Assigns technical tasks and coordinates with entry-level engineers * Assigns tasks and coordinates ...

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All JobsWastewater Engineer JobsEntry Level Wastewater Engineer JobsEntry Level Wastewater Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Wastewater Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$40.2K

$85.6K

$141.3K

How much do entry level wastewater engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level wastewater engineer in Virginia is $85,640.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $102,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects and responsibilities for an entry level wastewater engineer during their first year on the job?

As an entry level wastewater engineer, you can expect to assist with a variety of tasks such as preparing engineering reports, conducting site visits, collecting and analyzing water samples, and supporting the design of treatment systems. You’ll often work closely with senior engineers to learn about regulatory requirements, permitting processes, and best practices in system maintenance. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including environmental scientists, CAD technicians, and project managers—is common, providing valuable exposure to different aspects of project delivery. Over time, you’ll gradually take on more responsibility and may have opportunities to contribute to client meetings or help manage small projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Wastewater Engineer vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectEntry Level Wastewater EngineerWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental or Civil Engineering, Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent, relevant state certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and analysis in engineering offices or field sitesOperate and monitor water treatment equipment at treatment plants
Industry UsageEngineering firms, municipal wastewater departmentsMunicipal water treatment facilities, private water companies

While both roles focus on water quality, an Entry Level Wastewater Engineer primarily handles design and planning tasks, requiring an engineering degree and certification. In contrast, a Water Treatment Plant Operator manages daily operations at treatment facilities, often with a high school diploma and specialized licenses. Both roles are essential in water management but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

What does an entry level wastewater engineer do?

An entry level wastewater engineer assists in designing, analyzing, and maintaining wastewater treatment systems and infrastructure. Their work often involves helping senior engineers with the planning and implementation of processes that remove contaminants from water, preparing technical reports, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. They may also collect and analyze water or soil samples, conduct site inspections, and use computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop project plans. This role provides foundational experience in environmental and civil engineering while supporting the protection of public health and the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level wastewater engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Wastewater Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, typically supported by a bachelor's degree and an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification. Familiarity with AutoCAD, GIS software, hydraulic modeling tools, and regulatory compliance systems is highly valuable. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this role. These abilities ensure accurate project design, regulatory adherence, and successful collaboration in delivering safe and efficient wastewater solutions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Wastewater Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Wastewater Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Wastewater Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Wastewater Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Wastewater Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Wastewater Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,640 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Entry Level Environmental Engineer (Water Practice)

ERG

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers. The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment. 

ERG is seeking an entry-level Civil/Environmental Engineer to support projects within our Water Practice. This role is ideal for a recent graduate or very early-career professional interested in water resources, water quality, and wastewater management. The selected candidate will provide project-level support across a range of technical and analytical water projects.
Job Description:
  • Provide technical and project support across ERG’s water projects
  • Assist with research, data collection, and analysis related to water resources, water quality, wastewater management, and water and wastewater treatment
  • Prepare technical reports, documentation, and project deliverables
  • Analyze water and wastewater treatment needs, treatment performance. and costs
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and project managers to support client objectives
  • Assist with project coordination and administrative tasks that support successful project execution
Qualifications and Skills:
  • Bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering with a focus on water/wastewater, or a related field
  • 0-1 years of professional experience
  • Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills
  • Strong data analysis skills including advanced Excel functions and R
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
  • Academic coursework or research experience related to wastewater, water resources, or water quality
  • Internship or project experience in environmental consulting, water management, or related fields
  • Familiarity with environmental regulations and compliance frameworks related to water programs
ERG offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, educational benefits, FSAs, a generous 401k plan, profit sharing, an EAP, 11-20 paid vacation days per year, 10 paid holidays per year, 56 hours or more of sick leave (based on the state you work in) per year (pro-rated for part-time) and more. The salary range for all positions depends on the years and type of experience. 
  
ERG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable EEOC regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual preference, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.  
   
Please be aware, the only authentic corporate domain for ERG is https://www.erg.com.  ERG may, on occasion, screen applicants via telephone or video interviews via Skype, Teams, GoToMeeting, or another type of video platform. However, any candidate extended a job offer might be asked to meet in person with an ERG employee before providing confidential personal information associated with new employment. 
  
If you’re a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ERG’s online application process as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources via email at Resumes-Lex@erg.com or call (781) 674-7293. 
  
ERG fosters a friendly, flexible work environment. ERGers are dedicated to serving clients who are committed to making the world a better place. We promote and recognize principles of fairness and respect in the work we do, the partnerships we foster, and the culture we value both within and outside of our organization.