Environmental Scientist I

WithersRavenel; Cary (NC); On-site; USD 54,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

WithersRavenel is seeking an Environmental Scientist I to join our Cary, NC team. The role involves conducting Phase I and Phase II ESAs, performing fieldwork, and supporting projects under NCDEQ, USEPA, and ASTM standards.

The ideal candidate has 1–3 years of ESA experience, can collect and analyze environmental data, and prepare technical reports while ensuring regulatory compliance in a fast-paced consulting environment.

Qualifications

• BS/BA in Environmental Science, Geology or related field.
• 1+ year of environmental fieldwork experience.
• 1–3 years of Phase I/II ESA experience.
• Familiarity with ASTM Phase I ESA standards and NCDEQ/USEPA requirements.
• Experience with soil and groundwater sampling and monitoring equipment.

Responsibilities

• Perform Phase I ESAs including site inspections, historical research and regulatory reviews.
• Perform Phase II ESAs including soil, groundwater, surface water sampling; oversee drilling activities.
• Calibrate and maintain field instruments for accurate data.
• Oversee and document remediation and mitigation activities as needed.
• Prepare field notes, chain-of-custody forms, and site photographs.
• Travel to project sites as needed, including overnight stays.

Skills

Environmental fieldwork

Technical writing

Communication

Organizational skills

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Geology, or related field

Tools

Soil sampling equipment

Groundwater sampling equipment

Field instrumentation

Job description

Description

We are seeking a highly motivated Environmental Scientist I to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for conducting Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs), performing environmental fieldwork, and supporting project tasks in compliance with NCDEQ, USEPA, and ASTM standards. The ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of experience in Phase I/II ESAs and be able to independently collect and analyze environmental data, prepare technical reports, and ensure regulatory compliance while working in a fast-paced consulting environment.

Environmental Assessments & Fieldwork

• Perform Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs), including site inspections, historical research, and regulatory reviews.
• Conduct Phase II ESAs, including soil, groundwater, surface water, and vapor intrusion sampling, and oversee subcontractor drilling activities.
• Calibrate and maintain field instruments and sampling equipment to ensure data accuracy.
• Oversee and document environmental remediation and mitigation activities as needed.
• Prepare and maintain field notes, chain-of-custody forms, and site photographs.
• Travel to project sites as needed, including overnight stays.

Data Management & Reporting

• Analyze and interpret environmental data to support decision-making and regulatory compliance.
• Prepare technical reports, including Phase I and Phase II ESA documentation, sampling summaries, and regulatory compliance reports.
• Maintain accurate project records and documentation.

Regulatory Compliance & Project Coordination

• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations.
• Communicate effectively with clients, regulatory agencies, and internal project teams.
• Assist in project planning, budgeting, and coordination as directed by the Project Manager.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the position. All employees may have other duties assigned at any time.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Geology, or a related field.
• 1+ year of experience in environmental fieldwork or related areas (internships, co-ops, or volunteer work in environmental projects are highly valued).
• 1 - 3 years of experience conducting Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs).
• Knowledge of ASTM Phase I ESA standards and NCDEQ/USEPA regulatory requirements.
• Experience with soil and groundwater sampling techniques and environmental monitoring equipment.
• Ability to address client requests or concerns promptly under Project Manager direction.
• Valid driver’s license with the ability to pass an MVR records check.
• Strong technical writing, communication, and organizational skills.
• Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions and terrain.
• Flexibility to travel and stay overnight for out-of-town assignments.

Preferred qualifications:

• 40 Hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) training
• Experience with Microsoft Office Applications

Working Conditions

This role involves year-round outdoor work, including collecting environmental samples and monitoring subcontractors performing tasks like soil borings, well installation, remediation equipment setup, or excavation. Candidates must be comfortable working outside for long periods in various weather conditions and may need to use personal protective equipment and air monitors for safety. Due to the fieldwork's nature, the employee will be exposed to various environmental hazards. The position involves occasional evening or weekend work, travel with overnight stays, and collaboration in a fast-paced, client-focused environment. Flexibility is essential. This position will have approximately 30% field and 70% office responsibilities.

Physical Requirements

In Office Work

The assignment may occasionally require repetitive physical tasks (such as operating a computer), standing and/or sitting for extended periods of time, and carrying equipment and materials up to 50 pounds.

Field Work

The position requires the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions to complete fieldwork. Candidates must be comfortable with extended periods of travel in a vehicle and possess the physical stamina to perform manual tasks such as lifting, digging, and standing for long durations. The ability to regularly lift up to 50 pounds is also required.

WithersRavenel is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, military service, or other non-merit factors protected by federal, state, or local laws. At WithersRavenel, we strive to build and nurture a culture where diversity, inclusivity, and belonging are a normal part of doing business, not an initiative. We know through experience that different ideas, perspectives, and backgrounds create a stronger and more creative work environment that delivers better results. By hiring highly talented people who align with our Core Values, we continue to enrich and broaden our ownership community, as well as the employee and client experience. This purposeful approach to diversity and inclusion leads to greater commitment, collaboration, and effectiveness in our culture, work, and lives.