Entry Level Field Scientist

Job Summary

The Entry Level Field Scientist supports environmental field operations across a variety of project types. Under guidance from senior staff, you will perform task-oriented work including groundwater and soil sampling, vapor intrusion studies, and monitoring well installations. You will also assist with Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments and develop competency in additional areas such as stormwater sampling, industrial hygiene inspections, and remedial construction support. This role requires strict adherence to safety protocols, accurate field documentation, and coordination with subcontractors and internal teams. Fieldwork may involve wearing Level C PPE with respirators and operating in diverse outdoor conditions.

Essential Functions

• Perform task-oriented work with instruction
• Understand and apply safety considerations for projects
• Learn the skills to become competent in core tasks: Groundwater Sampling (Low-Flow, Grab, Peristaltic, & Bailer Techniques), Monitoring Well Installation (Direct-Push, Hollow Stem Auger, etc.), Vapor Intrusion Studies (Leak Testing, Equipment Construction, etc.), Sample collection for soil, groundwater, vapor, etc., Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments
• Learn the skills to become competent in two or more other tasks based on project needs: Stormwater Sampling, Asbestos, lead, mold, radon, indoor air quality (IAQ), and industrial hygiene inspections and sampling
• Provide manual labor support to Operations & Maintenance (O&M)
• Inspect vehicles and equipment for safe operation
• Identify potential sources of contamination when working on a job site
• Accurately prepare field documentation based on project specific requirements
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE); some activities performed in Level C PPE with respirator(s)

Job Specifications

• Education: (1) Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Environmental Science, Construction Management, or a related science field or (2) a high school diploma or equivalency and some construction or labor experience
• Recommended Experience: 0 – 1 year of experience in environmental consulting
• Skills: Strong computer and verbal/written communication skills are a must
• Certifications: (beneficial prior to employment, provided as needed) 40-hour Hazardous Waste Site Operation (HAZWOPER), First Aid (FA)/Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), RCRA Certification, and USDOT HAZMAT Certification. Some positions require Asbestos Building Inspector, Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor, etc.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Foundational Knowledge: Learn job-related functions primarily through verbal instruction, training, and observation in an on-the-job setting
• Introductory understanding of environmental sampling (soil, water, vapor, stormwater, etc.)
• Building construction and materials
• General knowledge of safety practices, regulatory compliance, and utility locate procedures
• Practical Skills: Able to follow instructions and assist with fieldwork tasks; Able to set up job sites and handle sampling equipment under supervision; Basic mechanical aptitude for maintaining tools and vehicles; Capable of documenting field data and supporting project paperwork; Familiar with PPE use, including respirators when required; Supportive role in coordinating subcontractors and promoting site safety

Physical Requirements

• General Physical Demands: Ability to stand, walk, and move continuously for extended periods (up to 10–12 hours/day) and work in a construction environment around heavy equipment; Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling in varied terrain and confined spaces; Ability to lift, carry, and move equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds and occasionally moving heavier loads with assistance or equipment; Ability to climb ladders, access elevated or below-grade work areas, and work on uneven surfaces; Manual Dexterity: Perform repetitive physical tasks such as assembling equipment, collecting samples, and setting up job sites; Operate a hand and power tools; Operate and calibrate a variety of sampling equipment; Learn how to operate machinery, such as a scissor or boom lift, skid steer, etc., with precision and control
• Environmental Exposure: Willingness to consistently work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, cold, ice, rain, snow, wind); Willingness to work in environments with possible exposure to hazardous materials/waste and conditions/worksites, including, but not limited to airborne particulates (silica, asbestos, fiberglass, dust, pollen, ash, aerosols); industrial chemicals (petroleum and oil based products, chlorinated solvents, acids, bases, reagents); contaminated media (groundwater, soil, wastewater, water); lead based paint, mold, PCBs, demolition debris (fiberglass, silica, asbestos); biological agents (poison ivy/sumac/oak, insects); and noise, heat/cold, vibration. Wear and work in PPE on a daily basis, including appropriate work gloves, safety glasses, hard hats, hearing protection, and steel-toed boots; Ability to wear and work in Level C PPE in order to complete tasks, including respirators, Tychem/Tyvek suits, gloves, and safety boots, for extended durations when required by project conditions
• Mobility & Travel: Willingness and ability to travel to job sites, sometimes on short notice; Comfortable working in remote or undeveloped locations with limited amenities
• Cognitive & Sensory Requirements: Strong visual acuity for reading instruments, maps, and documentation; Ability to hear and respond to verbal instructions and safety signals in noisy environments; Ability to communicate effectively in both verbal and written form, including reading and interpreting safety instructions and technical documents

Additional Requirements

• All positions require the completion of a successful background check, motor vehicle review, and pre-employment drug screen.
• This position requires the use of a personal or company vehicle(light duty pickup trucks or cargo vans)on company business.
• Driving positions require a current, valid driver’s license and maintaining an acceptable driving record. Must be physically capable of operating vehicles safely.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA HAZWOPER standards, including completion of annual medical evaluations to ensure fitness for duty in hazardous environments.
• Employees operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) are subject to regular, random drug testing in compliance with DOT requirements.
• Certain projects may require participation in random drug screening programs.
• Employees must maintain an active cell phone to ensure availability for work-related coordination.

Job Context

• 90% field/site visit travel (environmental job hazards), 10% office (controlled environment)
• This classification requires travel to various project locations. Travel may involve day trips via driving within the state or to neighboring states, resulting in longer workdays; and extended and/or further travel (driving or flying), resulting in multiple days and overnights.
• Positions average 4 hours of paid overtime per week with start times of 5 – 8 am (depending on location).
• More overtime (including weekend work) may be required depending upon project demand.
• Some assignments require intermittent 24 hour on call duty and/or shift work based on project needs.

Benefits & Perks

• Health & Welfare: comprehensive benefits effective on your first day of employment
• Paid Time Off & Leave: generous PTO, including community service time off, 8 paid holidays, and paid parental leave
• Retirement Planning: 401(k) with company match
• Professional Development: Annual company reimbursement for one professional organization membership, one job-related external training, and one professional license or certification
• Community & Culture: team building activities, social events, and donation of time, service, and resources to local organizations

Job Context

• This classification requires travel to various project locations. Travel may involve day trips via driving within the state or to neighboring states, resulting in longer workdays; and extended and/or further travel (driving or flying), resulting in multiple days and overnights.
• Positions average 4 hours of paid overtime per week with start times of 5 – 8 am (depending on location).
• More overtime (including weekend work) may be required depending upon project demand.
• Some assignments require intermittent 24 hour on call duty and/or shift work based on project needs.