Environmental Scientist

About the position Environmental Works, Inc. (EWI) is seeking an Environmental Scientist who enjoys hands-on field work and solving technical problems. This role combines environmental sampling and reporting with remediation system operations, maintenance, and general site and grounds upkeep. The position involves outdoor work collecting samples, operating equipment, and maintaining sites, as well as office work for documentation and review. EWI has over 30 years of experience providing comprehensive environmental services, including strategic planning, compliance, remediation, field services, drilling, and tank services, with a focus on empowering their team to make decisions and offer innovative solutions.

Responsibilities

• Collect soil, groundwater, surface water, air, vapor, stormwater, and wastewater samples for laboratory testing.
• Prepare, label, package, and ship samples and maintain accurate sampling records, and support proper handling and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.
• Support drilling, soil and rock logging, monitoring and recovery well installation, site surveys, and remediation activities.
• Record field observations, review environmental data, identify discrepancies, and prepare clear field summaries, tables, and technical reports.
• Operate and monitor remediation systems, including groundwater recovery wells and water treatment equipment, following site procedures.
• Collect and record water levels, system flow readings, weather conditions, and other data needed to track system performance and meet monitoring requirements.
• Help troubleshoot equipment issues and handle routine maintenance involving pumps, motors, piping, and monitoring equipment.
• Inspect sites for compliance with project plans and permit requirements, report issues, and help address needed corrections.
• Perform hands-on site, building, and grounds maintenance, including vegetation control, cleanup, and keeping access to wells and equipment clear.
• Support site inspections and monitoring required by project work plans and permits while reporting operating issues, maintenance needs, and safety concerns promptly.
• Communicate with Project Managers, coworkers, clients, regulators, and vendors to coordinate field work and follow through on project needs.
• Follow company safety procedures and site-specific health and safety plans, use required personal protective equipment, and maintain accurate field, maintenance, time, and expense records.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Geology, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field.
• A valid driver’s license and ability to meet company vehicle insurance requirements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Ability to obtain the site-specific Illinois Class K Wastewater Treatment Operator certification after hire.
• You can read and follow work plans, maps, drawings, and written and verbal instructions.
• You communicate clearly, both in conversation and in writing.
• You work well both independently and as part of a team.

Nice-to-haves

• One to five years of environmental field experience preferred, including sampling, monitoring, or remediation work.
• Knowledge of remediation system operations and maintenance preferred.
• Experience working with or troubleshooting pumps, motors, and piping is a plus.
• 40-hour HAZWOPER and confined space training preferred.
• Experience with AutoCAD or GIS is a plus.
• You’re reliable, organized, and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage routine tasks and adjust when project priorities change.
• You have strong problem-solving skills, take a hands-on approach, and are willing to learn new equipment and processes.
• You enjoy a mix of hands-on field work and office work.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision
• 401(k) with up to 4% company match
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and company contributions
• Company-paid Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Company-paid Employee Assistance Program
• Voluntary Accident, Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness, Life & AD&D coverage
• Prescription, surgery/imaging, cancer care, and health navigation programs
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Career development and training
• Boot reimbursement
• Gym membership reimbursement