FAQ’s on Working at First Environment
How long has First Environment been in business?
First Environment was founded in New Jersey in 1977 under the name Groundwater Technology. As the company expanded, we changed our name to First Environment, Inc. to reflect our broad range of services.
How do I find out about employment opportunities in the company?
Employment opportunities are listed on our website, or, you may contact the Human Resources Manager at First Environment.
What should I expect at the interview?
We view the interview process as an exchange where we get to know each other. Depending on your field and the level of experience, you may meet with several associates and managers to discuss your experience, strengths, and interests.
What types of professional experience and education do First Environment employees have?
First Environment has a diverse multi-disciplinary workforce comprised of attorneys, scientists, geologists, MBA’s, engineers, economists, policy strategists and management system experts. Since First Environment supports a variety of projects spanning diverse industries and service areas, we require professionals with varying skills and experience. Therefore, a specific degree or professional type doesn’t apply; initiative, dedication and resourcefulness are often the qualities successful First Environment employees possess.
What types of projects are employees involved in?
First Environment’s clients span a broad range of industries, including energy, oil & gas, pulp & paper, chemicals, equipment, plastics, automotive, carpet & flooring, and real estate. Clients range from government entities, to small/medium businesses, to global corporations. An employee’s background, strengths and interests serve to determine projects they work on in the arenas of site investigation, environmental management systems, regulatory compliance, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, climate change, sustainability, and others.
What is the average size of a First Environment project team?
Usually, 4-10 employees work on a specific project together. In order to create a harmonious and well-rounded blend of talent and expertise, teams are developed based on the employee’s skill sets and experience. Some employees often take a leadership role in one project while, at the same time, are part of the team for a different project. Task forces are typically comprised of Project Overseer(s), Project Manager(s), and a core team. Our style encourages cooperative relationships that foster communication, flexibility, creativity, and most important, teamwork.
What compensation plans and benefits does First Environment offer?
Our compensation is competitive and considers experience, training, billing rate, and new business development. When establishing compensation ranges, we benchmark comparable firms, cost of living indexes, and consult recruitment statistics.
First Environment offers medical and dental insurance for employees and their families. The plan includes wellness benefits including discounts on chiropractic care. The company provides its employees with short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, eleven paid holidays, sick/personal time, and vacation time. In addition, the company offers a 401K plan where the company matches 50% of the first 6% that employees contribute. The company also has a discretionary profit sharing plan and tuition reimbursement for pre-approved courses.
Does First Environment offer internships?
Yes. We typically offer internships for college and graduate level students during the summer months. Each year we identify several interesting projects across a variety of disciplines for which we seek intern assistance. Interested students should frequently check our website, or submit their resume to the Human Resources Manager for consideration if an appropriate opportunity surfaces.