Environmental Technician I

UES; Reno (NV); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

UES in Reno, NV is seeking an Environmental Technician I to support engineering projects through basic environmental testing, monitoring, and compliance activities. This entry‑level role works under close supervision alongside senior staff to gain hands‑on experience in environmental science within the engineering industry.

You will assist with fieldwork, travel up to 70%, collect samples, record data, and help prepare reports.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; associate degree or coursework in Environmental Science/related field preferred.
• Familiarity with basic environmental concepts and willingness to learn industry standards and regulations.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established protocols.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and data entry.
• Effective communication and ability to work well as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Assist with collecting soil, water, and air samples under supervision.
• Support field monitoring activities, including equipment setup, calibration, and maintenance.
• Record and organize field data and assist in preparing basic reports and logs.
• Follow procedures for environmental testing to ensure reliable results.
• Help monitor construction sites for compliance with environmental standards.
• Learn and apply safety standards and company policies in daily tasks.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and supplies used in field and laboratory work.
• Provide support in preparing documentation for permit applications and compliance reporting.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support project goals.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Basic computer skills

Environmental testing knowledge

Safety compliance

Field data collection

Education

High school diploma

Associate’s degree or coursework in Environmental Science or related field

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

The Environmental Technician I is an entry‑level role that provides support to engineering projects through basic environmental testing, monitoring, and compliance activities. Under close supervision, this role assists with fieldwork, data collection, and routine documentation to ensure projects meet environmental regulations and support sustainable practices. The technician works alongside senior staff and project managers, gaining hands‑on experience in environmental science within the engineering industry.

Responsibilities

• Assist with collecting soil, water, and air samples under the guidance of senior technicians or engineers.
• Support field monitoring activities, including equipment setup, calibration, and routine maintenance.
• Record and organize field data accurately and assist in preparing basic reports and logs.
• Follow established procedures for environmental testing and sampling to ensure reliable results.
• Help monitor construction and project sites for compliance with environmental standards, such as erosion control and waste management.
• Learn and apply safety standards, environmental regulations, and company policies in daily tasks.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and supplies used in field and laboratory work.
• Provide support in preparing documentation for permit applications and compliance reporting.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support project goals and company initiatives.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; an Associate’s degree or coursework in Environmental Science, Engineering Technology, or a related field is preferred.
• Familiarity with basic environmental concepts and willingness to learn industry standards and regulations.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established protocols.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and data entry.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work well as part of a team.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physical tasks such as lifting equipment.

Travel Requirements

• This position requires extensive travel, approximately up to 70% of the time, in support of business objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adhereance to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on‑site work.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Work is primarily conducted outdoors with exposure to outdoor conditions, including:
  • Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, construction zones, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man‑made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris.
  • Moderate to loud noise levels due to lab equipment, field operations, and construction environments.
  • Exposure to dirt, dust, chemicals, sun, heat, humidity, and varying weather conditions as part of field sample collection and testing.
• Physical requirements include:
  • Ability to lift and carry between 35 and 75 lbs. over distances up to 75 feet, involving regular repetitive motion.
  • Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate laboratory and field equipment for extended periods.
  • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required for laboratory and fieldwork.
  • Ability to use your senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vison, depth vision, and ability to focus) smell, hear, touch (use hands to reach climb or balance, crouch, stoop, crawl, kneel and sit).

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here.