Entry-Level Environmental Scientist

S&ME, Inc.•Charlotte, NC

About The Position

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. Visit the Life tab on our LinkedIn profile to learn more about life at S&ME. 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. 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. 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. 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.

Requirements

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 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

Responsibilities

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.

Benefits

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