Entry-Level Environmental Scientist

Career Architecture Title: Environmental Scientist: Scientist I

Job Ad Title: Entry-Level Environmental Scientist

Requisition Number: 2026-1260-04

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 Greenville, South Carolina.

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What You Will Do:

As an entry-level Environmental Scientist working under the supervision of licensed professionals and project managers, you will perform essential scientific tasks related to site assessments, environmental studies, and natural resource projects. Your responsibilities will include conducting field activities such as soil and water sampling, wetland delineations, and fauna/flora identifications. Additionally, you will prepare technical environmental reports and ensure regulatory compliance through training and meticulous data entry for field activities. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience and make a meaningful impact on the environment.

• Conduct fieldwork including stream and wetland delineations, protected species habitat assessments, soil and groundwater sampling, and installation of monitoring wells.
• Perform data collection, analysis, and organization for use in environmental evaluations and regulatory documentation.
• Prepare reports, data tables, and figures, including comparison of findings to applicable state and federal environmental standards.
• Utilize GIS for mapping and spatial analysis related to natural resource assessments.
• Collaborate with team members and clients to navigate regulatory processes such as 404/401 permitting and contribute to project planning and deliverables.

What We Are Looking For:

We're looking for someone who's 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 your 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, environmental engineering, geology, chemistry or closely related field
• Experience: 0-2 years of related environmental work experience
  
  
  
  • Experience with wetland delineations, Section 401/404 permitting process, protected species surveys and ecological surveys, a plus (willing to train the right candidate)
  • GIS experience, a plus
  
  
  
  
• Certifications: Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Engineer in training (EIT) or Geologist in Training (GIT), or on track to obtain Professional registration, or ability to obtain in the future
• 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.