Entry Level Field Scientist

August Mack Environmental, Inc. • Independence, OH

18h

About The Position

The Entry Level Field Scientist supports environmental field operations across a variety of project types. Under the guidance of senior staff, the role performs task-oriented work including groundwater and soil sampling, vapor intrusion studies, and monitoring well installations. The scientist also assists with Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments and develops competency in other areas such as stormwater sampling, industrial hygiene inspections, and remedial construction support. The position requires strict adherence to safety protocols, accurate field documentation, and coordination with subcontractors and internal teams. Fieldwork may require Level C PPE and respirators and takes place in diverse outdoor conditions.

The position involves approximately 90% field and site-visit work and 10% office work. Travel may include day trips within the state or neighboring states, extended travel with overnight stays, and long-term remote assignments as needed. Employees average four hours of paid overtime per week, with start times between 5 and 8 a.m. depending on location. Additional overtime, weekend work, intermittent 24-hour on-call duty, or shift work may be required based on project needs.

Requirements

• Associate or bachelor's degree in Geology, Environmental Science, Construction Management, or a related science field; alternatively, a high school diploma or equivalent and some construction or labor experience.
• Strong computer skills and verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to follow instructions and assist with fieldwork tasks.
• Ability to set up job sites and handle sampling equipment under supervision.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for maintaining tools and vehicles.
• Ability to document field data and support project paperwork.
• Familiarity with PPE, including respirators when required.
• Ability to support subcontractor coordination and promote site safety.
• Successful background check, motor vehicle review, and pre-employment drug screen.
• For driving positions, a current valid driver's license, acceptable driving record, and ability to operate vehicles safely.
• Ability to meet OSHA HAZWOPER medical evaluation requirements and comply with applicable drug-testing requirements.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move continuously for up to 10–12 hours per day; bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl; lift and carry up to 50 pounds and occasionally move heavier loads with assistance or equipment; climb ladders; and work on uneven terrain and in confined spaces.
• Ability to perform repetitive physical tasks, operate hand and power tools, operate and calibrate sampling equipment, and learn to operate machinery such as scissor or boom lifts and skid steers.
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions and in environments where hazardous materials, waste, biological agents, noise, heat, cold, or vibration may be present.
• Ability to wear daily work PPE and, when required, work for extended durations in Level C PPE, including respirators and protective suits.
• Willingness and ability to travel to job sites, sometimes on short notice, and work in remote or undeveloped locations with limited amenities.
• Visual acuity to read instruments, maps, and documentation; ability to hear and respond to instructions and safety signals in noisy environments; and ability to maintain alertness and situational awareness in changing field conditions.

Nice To Haves

• Zero to one year of experience in environmental consulting is recommended.
• Beneficial certifications include 40-hour Hazardous Waste Site Operation (HAZWOPER), First Aid/CPR, RCRA Certification, and USDOT HAZMAT Certification.
• Some positions may benefit from certifications such as Asbestos Building Inspector or Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor.

Responsibilities

• Perform task-oriented work under instruction and serve as Site Supervisor/Health and Safety Officer on most project work.
• Understand and apply project safety considerations.
• Develop competency in groundwater sampling, monitoring well installation, vapor intrusion studies, sample collection, and Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments.
• Develop competency in at least two additional tasks based on project needs, such as stormwater sampling, industrial hygiene inspections and sampling, Operations and Maintenance or remedial construction labor support, excavation oversight and sampling, construction/redevelopment oversight, or renewable energy reconnaissance.
• Verify public and private utility locates are complete and appropriately marked before work begins.
• Set up jobs, complete load lists, and perform on-site work.
• Assist with subcontractor management, health and safety oversight, and paperwork.
• Inspect vehicles and equipment for safe operation.
• Identify potential sources of contamination at job sites.
• Prepare accurate field documentation according to project-specific requirements.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including Level C PPE and respirators when required.
• Use a personal or company vehicle for company business and maintain an active cell phone for work coordination.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA HAZWOPER requirements, including annual medical evaluations.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and welfare benefits effective on the first day of employment.
• Generous paid time off, including community service time off.
• Eight paid holidays.
• Paid parental leave.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Annual company reimbursement for one professional organization membership, one job-related external training, and one professional license or certification.
• Team-building activities and social events.
• Donation of time, service, and resources to local organizations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree