Entry-Level Environmental Scientist

Entry-Level Environmental Scientist

Requisition Number: 2026-1350-02

Are you looking for more than a first job, but a hands-on opportunity to develop your technical skills, learn from experienced professionals, and contribute to projects that protect and improve the communities we serve? If you're ready to build a strong foundation while making a measurable environmental impact, this is where you start. S&ME is looking for an entry-level Environmental Scientist to join our team in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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What You Will Do:

As an Environmental Scientist, you will work under the supervision of experienced professionals and project managers to perform both office and field work related to environmental assessments, compliance, and permitting projects. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience and make a meaningful impact on the environment.

• Conduct Environmental Assessments: Perform fieldwork and reporting for environmental assessments, including Phase I and Phase II ESAs and Brownfields assessments.
• Conduct Fieldwork and Sampling: Complete/install soil borings, monitoring wells, and vapor point installations under the direction of experienced professionals; collect and analyze groundwater, vapor, and soil/sediment samples.
• Compliance Monitoring: Monitor compliance through stormwater sampling, vapor intrusion assessments and mitigation, as well as underground storage tank (UST) assessments and investigations.
• Data Recording and Reporting: Record and interpret data, compare results to regulations, and prepare standard environmental reports.

What We Are Looking For:

We're looking for someone genuinely excited to build a career in environmental science, not just clock in and out. Someone who enjoys being outside, asks thoughtful questions, pays attention to the details, and takes ownership of their work. You're dependable, organized, and ready to roll up your sleeves while learning from experienced professionals.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in biology, environmental science, engineering, geology, chemistry, or a closely related field
• Experience: 0-2 years of related environmental field work experience
• Certifications: OSHA HAZWOPER 40-hour
• Key Competencies:
  
  
  
  • Basic technical writing skills at the college level
  
  
  
  

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

This role involves hands-on work in outdoor environments, and with Company-provided Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), you'll need to be comfortable with:

• Working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
• Working outside of normal business hours and traveling (typically out-of-town and/or overnight) as project needs arise

We Are S&ME:

At S&ME, we're committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we've built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of over 1,000 employee-owners across 10+ states collaborates to create a meaningful impact on our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people-focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it's a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.

What We Offer:

Comprehensive Health & Wellness Programs

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• Wellness Program offering $50 off per month on 2027 premiums
• Pet Insurance for your furry family members

Ownership & Financial Perks

• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan to help you plan ahead
• Term Life & Long-Term Care Coverage - available Spring 2026

Work-Life Balance & Career Development

• Paid Holidays, PTO with rollover options, and Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, and Credential Incentive Program
• Employee Recognition Program, $2,000 Referral Bonuses, and a company vehicle & fuel card for project-based roles

If you're passionate about making an impact and want to work with a firm committed to our employees and providing quality service to our clients, we'd love to hear from you!

This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.