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Recent Graduate Environmental Science Jobs in Tennessee

Sustainability ESG Specialist

Dayton, TN ยท Hybrid

$104K - $120K/yr

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career environmental professional who is ... Bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Sustainability, Industrial ...

If you are an experienced vet, more recent graduate, or someone interested in venturing into relief ... The ideal candidate must be able to multitask in a fast-paced environment and have a positive ...

If you are an experienced vet, more recent graduate, or someone interested in venturing into relief ... The ideal candidate must be able to multitask in a fast-paced environment and have a positive ...

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Recent Graduate Environmental Science information

What is a recent graduate environmental scientist?

Recent graduate environmental scientists are individuals who have recently completed a degree in environmental science or a closely related field and are beginning their professional careers. They typically work in entry-level positions, assisting with environmental research, data collection, fieldwork, and reporting. Their roles may include monitoring environmental conditions, supporting sustainability initiatives, or helping with regulatory compliance. These positions provide valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to develop specialized skills in the environmental sector.

What are the typical responsibilities of a recent graduate environmental scientist?

As a recent graduate in environmental science, your daily tasks may include collecting and analyzing environmental data, conducting fieldwork and site assessments, assisting with report writing, and supporting senior scientists in research projects. You'll often collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including engineers, policy experts, and laboratory technicians. Early in your career, you'll have opportunities to develop technical skills, gain exposure to regulatory compliance, and participate in community outreach or public education efforts, all of which can pave the way for advancement in specialized areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recent graduate environmental scientist?

To thrive as a recent graduate in Environmental Science, you need a solid understanding of environmental principles, research methods, and data analysis, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as GIS software, statistical analysis programs, and laboratory equipment is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help set candidates apart in this field. These skills are essential for effectively collecting and interpreting data, collaborating with diverse teams, and contributing solutions to environmental challenges.

What is the difference between Recent Graduate Environmental Science vs Environmental Technician?

AspectRecent Graduate Environmental ScienceEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science or related fieldBachelor's degree often preferred; certifications like OSHA or EPA may be advantageous
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, fieldwork, research settingsField sites, laboratories, environmental monitoring locations
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, government agencies, environmental consultanciesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, industrial sites
Common Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level roles for recent graduatesEntry-level or early-career environmental monitoring roles

Overall, Recent Graduate Environmental Science roles focus on entry-level research and data analysis, while Environmental Technicians typically perform field sampling and monitoring tasks. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds but differ in work environment and specific responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Recent Graduate Environmental Science jobs in Tennessee?

For Recent Graduate Environmental Science jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Recent Graduate Environmental Science jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Recent Graduate Environmental Science jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Recent Graduate Environmental Science jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Recent Graduate Environmental Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Recent Graduate Environmental Science job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Professor of Plant Ecology, Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Science

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

Chattanooga, TN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description
The Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Science (BGE) at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) in the College of Arts and Sciences invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Plant Ecology beginning August 1, 2027. We seek candidates with research and teaching focused in any area of plant ecology.
Qualifications
Requirements for the position include:
  • Ph.D. focused in plant ecology, botany, plant conservation, or related field [individuals who are all but dissertation (ABD) will be considered; however, the degree must be awarded prior to the start date;
  • Ability to teach from the freshman undergraduate level through the Master's level in ecology, plant ecology (lecture and laboratory), plant conservation, and general botany, as well as undergraduate courses in introductory biology, environmental science, and courses in areas of specialization;
  • Ability to establish an independent research program in plant ecology or plant conservation involving undergraduate and graduate students;
  • Ability to work collegially with students, fellow faculty, staff, and community partners; and
  • Ability to utilize high-impact practices in teaching and student engagement from the undergraduate to the graduate level

The successful candidate's application will also provide evidence of the following preferred qualifications:
  • Research, teaching, and mentoring experience in field-based plant ecology, plant conservation, plant (eco-)physiology, habitat or species restoration, biodiversity conservation, and potentially incorporate other expertise areas, e.g., remote sensing and GIS (Geographic Information Systems), conservation/education outreach, molecular methods, or statistical programming languages (e.g. R, Python);
  • Contribute to UTC's undergraduate and graduate biology, geology, and environmental science students through research and teaching focused on contemporary environmental challenges;
  • Creatively seek a wide range of external funding opportunities to support independent research or UTC undergraduate and graduate students in the candidate's field; and
  • Provide university, community, and professional service, including collaborations with community partners.

Application Instructions
Review of applications will begin on October 15, 2026. To be considered for the position, all applications must include all the following:
  • A cover letter;
  • A statement of research experience and vision, providing evidence of position requirements;
  • A statement of teaching experience and philosophy, providing evidence of position requirements;
  • A curriculum vitae;
  • All unofficial transcripts; and
  • A list of names, titles, and email addresses for three (3) references for confidential letters of recommendation to be requested at later stages in the search process. At least one reference must be able to comment on teaching ability.

Questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Gretchen Potts, BGE Department Head, Gretchen-Potts@utc.edu. Applications must be submitted electronically through the UTC Faculty Career Site.
BGE has 35 full-time faculty with more than 850 majors distributed between BS Biology, BS Geology, BS Environmental Science, and MS Environmental Science degrees. BGE has an interdisciplinary MS graduate program with 30-40 students per year.
UTC is in the heart of Tennessee's fourth-largest city, lies along the dam-controlled Tennessee River in the southern Appalachian fold-and-thrust belt, adjacent to the Cumberland Plateau and within view of the Blue Ridge. Its climate, geography, hydrology, and history contribute to its geologic complexities and rich biodiversity. UTC's proximity to numerous public and private natural areas within the biologically diverse southern Appalachian region provides exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary, field-based research involving undergraduate and graduate students. Raccoon Mountain Caverns, a 5.5-mile-long limestone cave located just a 15-minute drive from UTC's campus, was recently donated to UTC and BGE manages the caverns access and use for teaching and conducting research.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga is the second-largest campus in the University of Tennessee System and serves a diverse student body of more than 11,000 undergraduate and graduate students through six academic colleges. Since its founding as Chattanooga University in 1886, UTC has established a reputation for excellence built on a unique blend of the private and public traditions of American higher education. Today, UTC brings a passion for excellence in all pursuits and is dedicated to making a difference in our community and in the lives of our students.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga proudly calls Chattanooga home-a city lauded by U.S. News and World Report, Money Magazine and Southern Living (to name a few!) for its unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. Nestled between scenic Lookout Mountain and the Tennessee River, Chattanooga offers breathtaking natural beauty, lively city amenities and a small-town feel.
Our city has it all, with historic cultural institutions like the Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra and the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, iconic attractions like Rock City and Ruby Falls, opportunities for epic outdoor adventures, and an eclectic contemporary art, music, and food scene.
Chattanooga's robust economy fosters an environment where tech start-ups thrive alongside established industries and corporations. It's where innovation meets tradition, creating endless opportunities for growth and success.
UTC embodies Chattanooga's dynamic spirit, serving as one of the city's most vital institutions where progressive transformation and community thrive. UTC is where Chattanooga goes to build the future.