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Associate Research Scientist Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Sr . R&D Engineer

Novato, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

Job Title : ABB Talent Pool - R&D Engineer / R&D Senior Engineer / R&D Team Lead / Associate ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

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Associate Research Scientist information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

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$43

$68

How much do associate research scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate research scientist in Santa Rosa, CA is $43.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.71 and $50.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Research Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectAssociate Research ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree, some experienceMaster's or Ph.D., more extensive research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratory or research settings, often in academia or industrySimilar environments, often with increased responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, academiaResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, academia

In summary, an Associate Research Scientist typically holds a bachelor's or master's degree and has limited research experience, working under supervision. A Research Scientist usually has a master's or Ph.D. with more independent research responsibilities. Both roles are common in research-focused industries and share similar work environments, but the Research Scientist position generally requires more advanced credentials and experience.

What does an Associate Research Scientist do?

An Associate Research Scientist is a professional who conducts scientific research and experiments under the supervision of senior scientists. They design and execute experiments, analyze data, and contribute to the preparation of research papers and reports. Typically working in academic, government, or industry settings, Associate Research Scientists help advance knowledge in their field and may also assist in mentoring junior staff or students. Their role often requires specialized knowledge in a scientific discipline and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

What are typical collaboration opportunities for an Associate Research Scientist within a research team?

Associate Research Scientists frequently collaborate with senior scientists, research assistants, and sometimes external partners to design experiments, analyze data, and interpret results. They often contribute to group meetings, present findings, and may help with manuscript preparation. These roles require strong communication and teamwork skills, as projects are usually interdisciplinary and rely on effective information sharing. Collaboration offers valuable learning experiences and can open pathways for career advancement within the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Research Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Research Scientist, you need a solid background in scientific research, data analysis, and relevant field-specific knowledge, typically supported by at least a master's or PhD degree. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, analytical software (such as MATLAB, R, or Python), and compliance with research protocols is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help distinguish outstanding candidates. These competencies ensure rigorous experimentation, accurate data interpretation, and clear collaboration within research teams, all of which drive scientific progress.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Scientist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Research Scientist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Research Scientist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Associate Research Scientist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Research Scientist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Research Scientist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Associate Research Scientist jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Associate Research Scientist job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Research Scientist job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,480 per year, or $44 per hour.

$93K - $224K/yr

Other

Medical, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Berkeley Lab's Laser Technologies Group has an opening for a Career-Track Research Scientist position.

As a Career-Track Research Scientist, you will use your expertise in the development of advanced laser-matter interaction processes and the fabrication of next-generation optical devices. The position will focus on leveraging femtosecond laser technologies to engineer complex 3D architectures and functional optical components. The successful candidate will bridge the gap between fundamental laser physics and the realization of advanced photonic devices, ensuring the development of scalable, high-performance solutions for a variety of applications.

We're here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

Why join Berkeley Lab?

We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:

  • Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans

  • A culture where you'll belong - we are invested in our teams! 

  • In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.

  • Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)

  • Pet insurance

You will:

  • Contribute to innovative research in ultrafast laser-material interactions, focusing on 3D additive manufacturing and surface fabrication

  • Design and fabricate advanced optical components, including optically/electrically tunable 3D optics

  • Conduct fundamental studies to unveil the mechanisms of laser-matter interactions in novel materials

  • Manage work plans for multiple research tasks, lead high-throughput data collection and analysis, and implement iterative improvements to system performance.

  • Develop creative resolutions to complex technical challenges involving multi-material integration. 

  • Apply computational analysis and multiphysics simulations to design photonic structures and interpret experimental results.

  • Collaborate with internal scientists, research associates, and postdoctoral fellows to advance the group's technical capabilities.

  • Contribute to or co-author the writing of technical proposals and manuscripts, and represent the Laboratory at scientific meetings and program reviews.

  • Actively works to build a network of contacts and collaborators within their field of research and at funding agencies

  • Prepare funding proposals

  • Report research progress to funders

  • Present findings at seminars and/or conferences

  • Adhere to all LBNL and EH&S safety guidelines and requirements.

 

We are looking for:

  • Advanced degree. in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related experimental field.

  • Demonstrated experience in femtosecond 3D additive manufacturing techniques - including but not limited to - 3D Direct Laser Writing, Multiphoton Metal Reduction, and Laser-Induced Forward Transfer

  • Experience in development of THz time domain spectroscopy systems

  • Strong background in the fundamental non-linear physics and multi-photon processes underpinning ultrafast laser-matter interactions

  • Experience in optics, experimental system design, and the construction of advanced optical setups

  • Proficiency with advanced femtosecond 3D manufacturing processes and tubable optics fabrication

  • Knowledge of hyperspectral imaging and detector requirements

  • Proficiency with advanced material characterization techniques (morphological, composition, phase)

  • Optics simulation knowledge, including electromagnetic simulation software and classical optics.

  • Excellent communication skills, including writing and presenting.

  • Excellent time management and organizational skills

  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment as well as independently.   

  • Ability to publish research and present results in conferences, program reviews and DOE independent assessments   

 

Desired skills/knowledge:

  • Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related experimental field.

  • Project management experience

  • Experience in pump-probe experimentation 

  • Strong programming and data analysis skills

Requested Application Materials:

  • Curriculum Vitae.

  • Publication list

  • Names and contact information for at least three individuals who can write letters of reference 

Additional information:

  • Appointment type: This is a full-time, 1 year, career-track term appointment that may be renewed to a maximum of five years and that may be converted to career based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.

  • Salary range: The expected salary for this position is $142,116 - $157,068, which fits into the full salary of $93,504 - $224,400 depending upon the candidate's skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of experience.

  • Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.

  • Work modality: This position is eligible for a flexible work mode, with onsite or hybrid work being the preferred modes, though full-time telework or remote work modes may be considered. Hybrid work is a combination of teleworking and performing work on-site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab. Work schedules are dependent on business needs.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.


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