Environmental Scientist Jobs in Pennsylvania
Environmental Scientist jobs in Pennsylvania are consistently in demand, concentrated in environmental consulting, state regulatory compliance, energy development, and remediation work, with openings at every level from entry-level field technician to senior project scientist. Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Harrisburg anchor most of the hiring, with established employers like AECOM, Arcadis, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection maintaining ongoing rosters. The most sought-after specialties include site remediation, stormwater management, and air quality compliance, reflecting Pennsylvania's dense industrial heritage and active regulatory environment. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 21+ Environmental Scientist jobs
WHO WE ARE
As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.
What We Offer:
Impact - The work you do here matters to millions.
Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it?
Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
Benefits - We care about your well-being.
The City of Philadelphia is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer.
Learn more here: https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service
Equal Access to Civil Service Testing
The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov. For more information, go to: www.phila.gov/humanrelations
The City of Philadelphia is committed to ensuring access to Civil Service examinations by providing appropriate accommodation for candidates with documented medical or religious reasons. Candidates may request accommodation for a Civil Service examination by contacting the Office of Human Resources (OHR) at 215-686-2350 or by email at janine.labletta@phila.gov. The accommodation process is interactive and requires cooperation and communication between the applicant and OHR. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis using the required documentation that is submitted. Requests are to be made in a timely manner prior to the scheduled date of the Civil Service examination.
Only an on-line application will be accepted for this exam. Paper applications will not be accepted.
Computers are available in the 3-1-1 Walk-In Center located in Room 167 of City Hall (Weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM) and at your local Philadelphia Free Library branch.
For inquiries regarding City employment, contact the Office of Human Resources Monday through Friday between 8 AM and 4 PM by telephone at 215-686-0880 or by email at hrhelpdesk@phila.gov
Information concerning employment with the City of Philadelphia may be found at:
- work.phila.gov
- https://www.phila.gov/departments/office-of-human-resources/jobs/civil-service-faqs/
- www.facebook.com/PhilaOHR
- www.twitter.com/PhilaOHR
- www.youtube.com/@PhilaOHR
- www.linkedin.com/showcase/philahr
General Definition
This is entry level environmental science work of a training nature analyzing data, assisting in solving environmental problems, and assisting in routine data collection for projects or program activities. Positions in this class are allocated to one of the following assignments in the Water Department: Aquatic Sciences, Earth Sciences, Biological Sciences, Plant Sciences, Environmental Policy and Environmental Resource Management, or in the Department of Parks and Recreation in the Plant Sciences or the Environmental Policy and Environmental Resource Management Assignments only. Employees in this class learn to use analytic skills to perform select environmental or natural resource science techniques, and procedures, analyze data, and carry out sampling plans. Employees assist other technical personnel conducting laboratory and field tests. Work is performed under the direction of a Parks and Recreation Operations Manager in the Parks and Recreation Department assignments or an Environmental Scientist Supervisor, Engineer, or City Planner Supervisor responsible for directing environmental program activities in the Water Department assignments.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Phone: 215-686-2349
For all other inquiries please contact Customer Service at 215-686-0880 or email hrhelpdesk@phila.gov.
Notes to Applicants and Projected Exam Information
Candidates who pass the exam and are placed on the civil service list will be retained on the list for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years after the establishment of the Eligible List.
PREFERENCE FOR PHILADELPHIA RESIDENTS
To receive such preference, candidates must respond to the question regarding residence on this application. This response will be used to determine eligibility for preference for residents. Documentation of residence may be required if there is any question as to whether you meet the residency preference requirements.
If an applicant does not respond to the appropriate residence question, it will be assumed that the applicant does not qualify for residence preference. Eligibility for residence preference must be determined by the date of the test administration. No requests for residence preference will be granted after the test administration.
INDEBTEDNESS NOTICE
Such person shall also be required to certify as a condition of employment that he or she is fully current on any and all debts, taxes, fees, judgments, claims, and other accounts and obligations due and owing to the Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) or has voluntarily entered into a payment agreement with PGW.
Failure to enter into a payment agreement shall result in the cancellation of the appointment and removal from the certification. The name of the eligible candidate will be returned to the eligible list.
PREFERENCE POINTS FOR CANDIDATES FOR OPEN-COMPETITIVE EXAMS
U.S. VETERAN'S PREFERENCE
LEGACY PREFERENCE
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER SERVICE PREFERENCE
- Successfully completed a term of volunteer service with Peace Corps, AmeriCorps NCCC (including FEMA Corps), or AmeriCorps VISTA are eligible for additional points
- Successfully completed at least 450 hours of service with AmeriCorps State and National (including Teach for America).
- 1 point added to their final score if they have completed 450 Hours of the above service.
- 2 points added to their final score if they have completed 675 Hours of the above service.
- 3 points added to their final score if they have completed 900 Hours of the above service.
- 5 points added to their final score if they have completed 1700 Hours of the above service.
PHILADELPHIA SCHOOL DISTRICT CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION PREFERENCE
PROJECTED EXAM DATE
Candidates will need access to a desktop computer or laptop with a webcam and internet access to take the examination. Candidates will need to be able to operate computerized software proficiently and independently.
If you do not have access to a desktop computer or laptop with a webcam and internet access, or cannot operate computerized software proficiently and independently, please contact the Shar Nyinyi at shar.nyinyi@phila.gov and alternative arrangements will be made for you to take this examination.
An Eligible List will be established the week of October 12, 2026. Please note that this date may change.
TEST REVIEW
In accordance with Civil Service Regulation 9.091B, candidates will have 30 days after the results have been mailed to review their test and to file appeals to the key answers. Call 215-686-0880 if you wish to schedule a Test Review.
Level of Education Required
College
Minimum Acceptable Training and Experience
Candidates who meet all eligibility requirements within nine months of the application deadline will be admitted to this examination. Candidates may not be hired until all requirements have been satisfied. Candidates must indicate their anticipated graduation date.
1. EDUCATION:
Completion of a bachelor’s degree program at an accredited college or university in a qualifying scientific field. *
- Qualifying scientific fields include:
- Aquatic Sciences: Aquatic Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Aquatic Toxicology, Limnology, Marine Biology, Marine Ecology, Oceanography, Wetland Sciences, Wildlife and Fisheries Management
- Biological Sciences: Bacteriology, Biology, Biological Sciences, Ecology, Environmental Science, Microbiology, Molecular Biology
- Earth Sciences: Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, Geosciences, Geology, Geochemistry, Hydrology
- Environmental Policy and Environmental Resource Management: Forest Science, Environmental Management, Environmental Policy, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Natural Resource Management, Sustainable/Renewable Energy Management, Watershed Management, Wildlife Science
- Plant Sciences: Botany, Forestry, Plant Biology, Plant Taxonomy, Soil Sciences
NOTE: Selective Factor Certification may be utilized, as needed, to fill specific positions.
In accordance with Civil Service Regulation 11.032 - Selective Factor Certification – the appointing authority may request certification of eligible candidates with the specified education or training to fill specific positions in this class. Certification to fill such position will be made from the two highest ranking eligible candidates on the eligible list who possess the specified qualification.
PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.
LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND/OR CERTIFICATES
Possession of a valid proper class motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prior to appointment and during tenure of employment as a Graduate Environmental Scientist if required by work assignment.
WHO WE ARE
As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.
What We Offer:
Impact - The work you do here matters to millions.
Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it?
Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
Benefits - We care about your well-being.
The City of Philadelphia is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer.
Learn more here: https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service
Equal Access to Civil Service Testing
The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov. For more information, go to: www.phila.gov/humanrelations
The City of Philadelphia is committed to ensuring access to Civil Service examinations by providing appropriate accommodation for candidates with documented medical or religious reasons. Candidates may request accommodation for a Civil Service examination by contacting the Office of Human Resources (OHR) at 215-686-2350 or by email at janine.labletta@phila.gov. The accommodation process is interactive and requires cooperation and communication between the applicant and OHR. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis using the required documentation that is submitted. Requests are to be made in a timely manner prior to the scheduled date of the Civil Service examination.
Only an on-line application will be accepted for this exam. Paper applications will not be accepted.
Computers are available in the 3-1-1 Walk-In Center located in Room 167 of City Hall (Weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM) and at your local Philadelphia Free Library branch.
For inquiries regarding City employment, contact the Office of Human Resources Monday through Friday between 8 AM and 4 PM by telephone at 215-686-0880 or by email at hrhelpdesk@phila.gov
Information concerning employment with the City of Philadelphia may be found at:
- work.phila.gov
- https://www.phila.gov/departments/office-of-human-resources/jobs/civil-service-faqs/
- www.facebook.com/PhilaOHR
- www.twitter.com/PhilaOHR
- www.youtube.com/@PhilaOHR
- www.linkedin.com/showcase/philahr
General Definition
This is entry level environmental science work of a training nature analyzing data, assisting in solving environmental problems, and assisting in routine data collection for projects or program activities. Positions in this class are allocated to one of the following assignments in the Water Department: Aquatic Sciences, Earth Sciences, Biological Sciences, Plant Sciences, Environmental Policy and Environmental Resource Management, or in the Department of Parks and Recreation in the Plant Sciences or the Environmental Policy and Environmental Resource Management Assignments only. Employees in this class learn to use analytic skills to perform select environmental or natural resource science techniques, and procedures, analyze data, and carry out sampling plans. Employees assist other technical personnel conducting laboratory and field tests. Work is performed under the direction of a Parks and Recreation Operations Manager in the Parks and Recreation Department assignments or an Environmental Scientist Supervisor, Engineer, or City Planner Supervisor responsible for directing environmental program activities in the Water Department assignments.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Phone: 215-686-2349
For all other inquiries please contact Customer Service at 215-686-0880 or email hrhelpdesk@phila.gov.
Notes to Applicants and Projected Exam Information
Candidates who pass the exam and are placed on the civil service list will be retained on the list for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years after the establishment of the Eligible List.
PREFERENCE FOR PHILADELPHIA RESIDENTS
To receive such preference, candidates must respond to the question regarding residence on this application. This response will be used to determine eligibility for preference for residents. Documentation of residence may be required if there is any question as to whether you meet the residency preference requirements.
If an applicant does not respond to the appropriate residence question, it will be assumed that the applicant does not qualify for residence preference. Eligibility for residence preference must be determined by the date of the test administration. No requests for residence preference will be granted after the test administration.
INDEBTEDNESS NOTICE
Such person shall also be required to certify as a condition of employment that he or she is fully current on any and all debts, taxes, fees, judgments, claims, and other accounts and obligations due and owing to the Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) or has voluntarily entered into a payment agreement with PGW.
Failure to enter into a payment agreement shall result in the cancellation of the appointment and removal from the certification. The name of the eligible candidate will be returned to the eligible list.
PREFERENCE POINTS FOR CANDIDATES FOR OPEN-COMPETITIVE EXAMS
U.S. VETERAN'S PREFERENCE
LEGACY PREFERENCE
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER SERVICE PREFERENCE
- Successfully completed a term of volunteer service with Peace Corps, AmeriCorps NCCC (including FEMA Corps), or AmeriCorps VISTA are eligible for additional points
- Successfully completed at least 450 hours of service with AmeriCorps State and National (including Teach for America).
- 1 point added to their final score if they have completed 450 Hours of the above service.
- 2 points added to their final score if they have completed 675 Hours of the above service.
- 3 points added to their final score if they have completed 900 Hours of the above service.
- 5 points added to their final score if they have completed 1700 Hours of the above service.
PHILADELPHIA SCHOOL DISTRICT CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION PREFERENCE
PROJECTED EXAM DATE
Candidates will need access to a desktop computer or laptop with a webcam and internet access to take the examination. Candidates will need to be able to operate computerized software proficiently and independently.
If you do not have access to a desktop computer or laptop with a webcam and internet access, or cannot operate computerized software proficiently and independently, please contact the Shar Nyinyi at shar.nyinyi@phila.gov and alternative arrangements will be made for you to take this examination.
An Eligible List will be established the week of October 12, 2026. Please note that this date may change.
TEST REVIEW
In accordance with Civil Service Regulation 9.091B, candidates will have 30 days after the results have been mailed to review their test and to file appeals to the key answers. Call 215-686-0880 if you wish to schedule a Test Review.
Level of Education Required
College
Minimum Acceptable Training and Experience
Candidates who meet all eligibility requirements within nine months of the application deadline will be admitted to this examination. Candidates may not be hired until all requirements have been satisfied. Candidates must indicate their anticipated graduation date.
1. EDUCATION:
Completion of a bachelor’s degree program at an accredited college or university in a qualifying scientific field. *
- Qualifying scientific fields include:
- Aquatic Sciences: Aquatic Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Aquatic Toxicology, Limnology, Marine Biology, Marine Ecology, Oceanography, Wetland Sciences, Wildlife and Fisheries Management
- Biological Sciences: Bacteriology, Biology, Biological Sciences, Ecology, Environmental Science, Microbiology, Molecular Biology
- Earth Sciences: Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology, Geosciences, Geology, Geochemistry, Hydrology
- Environmental Policy and Environmental Resource Management: Forest Science, Environmental Management, Environmental Policy, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Natural Resource Management, Sustainable/Renewable Energy Management, Watershed Management, Wildlife Science
- Plant Sciences: Botany, Forestry, Plant Biology, Plant Taxonomy, Soil Sciences
NOTE: Selective Factor Certification may be utilized, as needed, to fill specific positions.
In accordance with Civil Service Regulation 11.032 - Selective Factor Certification – the appointing authority may request certification of eligible candidates with the specified education or training to fill specific positions in this class. Certification to fill such position will be made from the two highest ranking eligible candidates on the eligible list who possess the specified qualification.
PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.
LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND/OR CERTIFICATES
Possession of a valid proper class motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prior to appointment and during tenure of employment as a Graduate Environmental Scientist if required by work assignment.
See All 21 Environmental Scientist Jobs in Pennsylvania
Find roles in Pennsylvania that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Environmental Scientist JobsEnvironmental Scientist Jobs by City in Pennsylvania
Where Pennsylvania roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Environmental Scientist Job Market in Pennsylvania
A snapshot from current Pennsylvania openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services
What Pennsylvania Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in environmental scientist jobs across Pennsylvania.
- Active Pennsylvania registration or licensure recognized by DEP for applicable environmental work
- Bachelor's degree or higher in environmental science, geology, chemistry, or a related field
- Experience with PADEP regulations, permit applications, and environmental reporting requirements
- Proficiency in field sampling, soil and groundwater investigation, and laboratory data interpretation
- Familiarity with GIS software and environmental data management platforms
- Strong technical writing skills for regulatory reports, EIS documents, and client deliverables
Environmental Scientist Jobs in Pennsylvania: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become an environmental scientist in Pennsylvania?
Most environmental scientists in Pennsylvania enter the field with a bachelor's degree in environmental science, geology, chemistry, or a closely related discipline, then build credentials through professional certification. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection does not require a single universal state license, but many employers and project roles require a Professional Geologist license issued by the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists. Earning a credential like the CHMM or HAZWOPER certification also strengthens candidacy for compliance and remediation roles.
How much do environmental scientists make in Pennsylvania?
Environmental scientists in Pennsylvania earn a median of about $76,110 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $50,660 for the lowest 10% to over $125,520 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire environmental scientists in Pennsylvania?
Employers hiring environmental scientists in Pennsylvania right now include Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, EnviroTrac, and RETTEW, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Pennsylvania's concentration of consulting firms, energy companies, and state regulatory agencies means demand is spread across both the private sector and government roles throughout the state.
Which Pennsylvania cities have the most environmental scientist jobs?
Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and Bethlehem have the most environmental scientist openings in Pennsylvania. Philadelphia leads because of its dense concentration of consulting firms and proximity to industrial Superfund sites, Pittsburgh draws remediation and energy-sector work tied to its legacy manufacturing and active natural gas development, and Harrisburg generates consistent openings through Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection headquarters and regional offices.
Are there remote environmental scientist jobs in Pennsylvania?
Yes, but they're limited. Much of the role involves fieldwork, site inspections, and sample collection that requires physical presence. About 9% of environmental scientist openings tied to Pennsylvania are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, and those positions tend to be concentrated in data analysis, report writing, regulatory review, and GIS-based project work rather than field-heavy assignments.
How can I get hired as an environmental scientist in Pennsylvania with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying for field technician or environmental analyst roles at Pennsylvania-based consulting firms, which routinely hire recent graduates for supervised site work and sampling. Large firms like AECOM and Arcadis run associate-level programs that bring in candidates without deep experience. A HAZWOPER 40-hour certification or a completed internship with a PADEP regional office gives an immediate edge, and adjacent roles in water quality monitoring or laboratory analysis at utilities or county conservation districts are a common lateral door into the profession.
Where can I find and apply to environmental scientist jobs in Pennsylvania?
You can find and apply to environmental scientist jobs in Pennsylvania on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers actively hiring in the state. Search the available roles, find positions that match your background and location, and apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 21 Environmental Scientist Jobs in Pennsylvania
Find roles in Pennsylvania that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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