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Associate Scientist Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Engineer/Scientist to support the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) in the execution of its mission, including providing technical ...

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Engineer/Scientist to support the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) in the execution of its mission, including providing technical ...

Range Conservation Scientist

Carlsbad, NM · On-site

$58.66K - $90K/yr

Description Range Conservation Scientist CEHMM a 501(c)3 non-profit conservation and environmental services organization, is seeking a full-time Range Conservation Scientist to develop technical ...

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Associate Scientist information

See New Mexico salary details

$18

$34

$55

How much do associate scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate scientist in New Mexico is $34.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.02 and $39.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is an Associate Scientist?

An associate scientist takes on more responsibilities than an assistant scientist, supporting research and each experiment under the lead scientist, often in a laboratory environment. As an associate scientist, there are many industries you can work in, including the research field where the lead scientist oversees your project, and you help author papers. Many pharmaceutical companies hire associate scientists to analyze samples to develop drugs and assist with preclinical and clinical studies. Private companies need you to produce specialty chemicals for their clients. Materials scientists at the associate level conduct research and test the properties of metals, plastics, and other materials for their use in new products and packaging. Some positions have duties that include training other team members and overseeing students and fellows.

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

To thrive as an Associate Scientist, you generally need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant scientific field, along with strong analytical and laboratory skills. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), data analysis software, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that distinguish top performers. These skills ensure accurate data collection, reliable experimental outcomes, and productive collaboration within research or product development teams.

What are some common challenges an Associate Scientist might face when transitioning from academia to industry?

Associate Scientists moving from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to a faster-paced environment and focusing on project-driven outcomes rather than open-ended research. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on teamwork, meeting strict deadlines, and following standardized protocols. Adjusting to these expectations, learning new technologies, and effectively communicating results to cross-functional teams are key areas where new hires may need support.

What does an Associate Scientist do?

An Associate Scientist is a professional who supports research and development projects, typically in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and document results under the supervision of senior scientists. Associate Scientists play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge and product development by performing laboratory tasks, maintaining equipment, and following established protocols. Their work contributes to discoveries, quality control, and regulatory compliance within their organization.

What is the difference between Associate Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectAssociate ScientistResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field; some roles may require a PhDTypically a Master's or PhD in a related discipline
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, governmentBiotech, pharmaceuticals, academia, government
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level or mid-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, career progression

Associate Scientists and Research Scientists often work in similar environments within biotech, pharma, or academic sectors. The main difference lies in experience and educational requirements, with Research Scientists typically holding higher degrees and engaging in more independent or advanced research. Both roles are essential for scientific progress, but Research Scientists usually have more responsibility and autonomy in their projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist jobs in New Mexico? The most popular types of Scientist jobs in New Mexico are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Scientist jobs in New Mexico? For Associate Scientist jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Scientist jobs in New Mexico look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Scientist jobs in New Mexico are:
What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Associate Scientist jobs? Cities in New Mexico with the most Associate Scientist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Scientist jobs in NM? For Associate Scientist jobs in NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Engineer Scientist 6

Mele Accociates

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

MELE Associates, Inc. is seeking to add an experienced Engineer/Scientist to support the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) in the execution of its mission, including providing technical, programmatic management, environmental planning and logistics support services. This full-time on-site position is contingent upon contract award.
Essential Functions:
  • Demonstrate sufficient ability to assess and provide program and technical management knowledge and capabilities to advise FPO on execution of cost, scope, and schedule for major system acquisitions, and to represent, within program guidance, the NNSA's program interests and positions in interactions with other agencies and corporate entities.
  • Apply systems engineering principles (such as requirements and interface management, risk management, work breakdown structure, decision analysis) for the development and maintenance of an integrated program baseline.
  • Identify, track, mitigate, and resolve technical risks and issues related to product and/or system performance objectives.
  • Participate in Program Meetings to include Product Realization Team (PRT) meetings.
  • Attend and participate in Project Officer Group and sub-group meetings (joint DoD/NNSA) and within guidance provided by the Lead Engineer and/or FPM.
  • Contribute to or lead assessments of current and needed capability and capacity of the NNSA weapons production complex for the W93 Program and recommend necessary facility and resource planning based on this information.
  • Assist Federal Program Office (FPO) with implementation of the Program Execution Instruction.
  • Coordinate FPO Program and Technical Management products and deliverables.
  • Assist with FPO Organization structuring and Roles and Responsibilities.
  • Track and manage Defense Programs, DoD, and Congressional actions and inquires.
  • Establish and manage FPO programmatic plans and materials as required for program execution.
  • Provide programmatic interface with DoD, Design Agencies and Production Agencies.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Current, active DOE Q Clearance/Top Secret Clearance with ability to acquire SCI.
  • Masters's degree in engineering or science-related field. Eight (8) years of relevant experience is equivalent to a four (4) year bachelor's degree.
  • Minimum fifteen (15) years of government experience
  • Superior communication, organizational, interpersonal, and writing skills.

This position is contingent upon contract award.
LOCATION: This is a full-time on-site position in Washington, DC 20585, Germantown, MD 20874 or Albuquerque, NM 87123 USA
#OPT
SALARY: Salaries are determined based on several factors including external market data, internal equity, and the candidate's related knowledge, skills, and abilities for the position.
Benefits MELE Offers
• Employer-paid employee Medical, Dental and Vision Care.
• Low-Cost Family Health Care offered.
• Federal Holidays and three (3) weeks' vacation
• 401(k) with Employer Match
• Cross-training opportunities
About MELE Associates, Inc.
With over 300 employees and offices in Rockville, MD, Washington, DC, and Albuquerque, NM, MELE is a veteran-owned government contractor empowering its customers with innovative solutions for more than three decades. MELE has team members located across the U.S. and has served more than a hundred countries across hundreds of project locations. The company offers technical, engineering, and programmatic support expertise to a host of U.S. federal and international agencies, including, but not limited to, the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, INTERPOL, and the International Atomic Energy Agency. MELE's services include national security, intelligence, IT/cybersecurity, facility management and engineering, CBRNE defense and nuclear security, emergency response training/management, and mission and program support.
MELE Associates, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. MELE Associates, Inc. is an E-Verify employer.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.