1

Environmental Research Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Wet Lab Carbon Technician

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$39.21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

FWI is looking for a Wet Lab Carbon Technician to join the team supporting NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) - the nerve center for harmful algal bloom detection, hypoxia ...

Wet Lab Carbon Technician

Ann Arbor, MI

$19 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

FWI is looking for a Wet Lab Carbon Technician to join the team supporting NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) -- the nerve center for harmful algal bloom detection, hypoxia ...

Wet Lab Carbon Technician

Ann Arbor, MI

$19 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

FWI is looking for a Wet Lab Carbon Technician to join the team supporting NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) - the nerve center for harmful algal bloom detection, hypoxia ...

Research Assistant - Bilingual

Detroit, MI · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Flourish Research is one of the industry's most progressive and diversified clinical trial ... Flourish is committed to a safe work environment where all employees, customers, and patients are ...

Research Assistant - Bilingual

Detroit, MI · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Flourish Research is one of the industry's most progressive and diversified clinical trial ... Flourish is committed to a safe work environment where all employees, customers, and patients are ...

Research Assistant - Bilingual

Detroit, MI · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Flourish Research is one of the industry's most progressive and diversified clinical trial ... Flourish is committed to a safe work environment where all employees, customers, and patients are ...

Clinical Research Coordinator II

Detroit, MI · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Flourish Research is one of the industry's most progressive and diversified clinical trial ... Flourish is committed to a safe work environment where all employees, customers, and patients are ...

Clinical Research Coordinator II

Detroit, MI · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Flourish Research is one of the industry's most progressive and diversified clinical trial ... Flourish is committed to a safe work environment where all employees, customers, and patients are ...

Clinical Research Coordinator II

Detroit, MI · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Flourish Research is one of the industry's most progressive and diversified clinical trial ... Flourish is committed to a safe work environment where all employees, customers, and patients are ...

Who We Are The School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) is the University of Michigan's interdisciplinary hub for environmental research, education, and engagement, focused on advancing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Environmental Research information

See Michigan salary details

$35.7K

$73.3K

$107.2K

How much do environmental research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental research in Michigan is $73,321.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,400.00 and $85,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an environmental research?

An Environmental Research job involves studying the environment, analyzing data, and developing solutions to ecological problems. Researchers may assess pollution levels, conservation efforts, climate change impacts, or sustainable practices. They often work for government agencies, universities, or private organizations, using scientific methods to inform policies and initiatives. The work typically includes field studies, data collection, laboratory analysis, and report writing.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of someone working in environmental research?

Environmental Researchers often split their time between fieldwork, where they collect soil, water, air, or biological samples, and lab or office work, where they analyze data and write reports. They may design and conduct experiments, review scientific literature, and monitor environmental impacts or trends. Collaboration with colleagues, such as scientists, policy specialists, and local stakeholders, is common to ensure comprehensive and meaningful results. This role requires adaptability, as work environments can vary from outdoor sites to professional offices, depending on project needs. Effective time management and continual learning are also valuable for staying current with evolving research methods and environmental regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in environmental research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Environmental Research, you need a solid background in environmental science or related fields, strong analytical skills, and experience with data collection and interpretation. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, geographic information system (GIS) tools, and environmental sampling equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication help researchers collaborate and translate findings to various audiences. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing high-quality research that supports evidence-based environmental policies and sustainable practices.

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Research jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Environmental Research jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Environmental Research jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Environmental Research job openings:
Infographic showing various Environmental Research job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,321 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Wet Lab Carbon Technician

FedWriters, Inc.

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$39.21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Overview
If you love the rigor of the analytical bench as much as you love the idea that your data helps protect one-fifth of the world's surface fresh water, this role is built for you. FWI is looking for a Wet Lab Carbon Technician to join the team supporting NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) - the nerve center for harmful algal bloom detection, hypoxia tracking, and carbon cycle research across the Great Lakes. You'll run the instruments, own the QA/QC, and help turn raw lake-water samples into the datasets that inform how we understand and protect this critical freshwater ecosystem.
As the Wet Lab Carbon Technician, you will perform routine and complex wet chemistry analyses on water and sediment samples - with a focus on organic and inorganic carbon fractions - in direct support of GLERL's harmful algal bloom and ecosystem research. You'll split your time between precision benchwork in the lab and hands-on fieldwork aboard NOAA research vessels, giving you a rare mix of steady lab craft and open-water adventure.
Responsibilities
  • Perform routine and complex wet laboratory chemical analyses on water and sediment samples, focusing on organic and inorganic carbon fractions (TOC, DOC, DIC, POC) and related nutrient parameters in support of HABs and ecosystem research
  • Prepare chemical reagents, standard solutions, and specialized glassware/plasticware, adhering to strict laboratory cleanliness and quality protocols
  • Operate, calibrate, troubleshoot, and perform routine preventative maintenance on core laboratory analytical equipment (e.g., TOC analyzers, spectrophotometers, fluorometers, filtration apparatus)
  • Execute rigorous laboratory QA/QC procedures, accurately document instrument performance, maintain detailed laboratory notebooks, and manage chemical inventories and Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
  • Log, track, and preserve incoming field samples collected from GLERL research vessels, autonomous vehicles, and the real-time observation network
  • Conduct vacuum filtrations for chlorophyll-a, phycocyanin, particulate organic carbon, and total suspended solids, managing subsequent extraction and analysis processes
  • Process, review, and perform initial quality control checks on analytical datasets; upload finalized data into designated GLERL databases and archives
  • Assist research scientists and engineers with field data and sample collection on NOAA small boats and GLERL research vessels during seasonal monitoring cruises (typically May to November)
  • Collaborate with technical staff to draft and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), data summaries, and quality management records
  • Assist in developing figures, charts, and technical summaries of carbon and bloom data for research communications, technical publications, and presentations
  • Safely operate basic material handling equipment and adhere to all NOAA environmental health and safety regulations within the wet lab facility

Qualifications
Required:
  • BS degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, environmental science, limnology, or a closely related scientific discipline
  • Demonstrated experience working in a wet chemistry laboratory environment handling environmental samples
  • Experience with basic laboratory instrumentation and data entry software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace)
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to lift and carry a 50 lb load to assist with sample coolers and field gear
  • Ability to perform field work and handle sample collection on marine vessels
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and safely within a laboratory setting, function as part of a technical team, and strong interpersonal and communication skills

Desired:
  • Two or more years of experience working in an analytical chemistry or biogeochemistry wet lab focused on aquatic environments
  • Hands-on experience operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining carbon analysis instrumentation, such as Total Organic Carbon (TOC/DOC) analyzers, Dissolved Inorganic Carbon (DIC) analyzers, or elemental analyzers (CHN)
  • Experience with automated nutrient analyzers, spectrophotometers, fluorometers, and vacuum filtration systems
  • Experience working with and developing standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • Experience using certified reference materials (CRMs), creating standards based on SOPs, and calibration of instruments and sensors
  • Familiarity with QA/QC protocols, creating standard curves, running check standards, and tracking instrument drift
  • Experience processing and analyzing environmental datasets using programming languages such as Python or R
  • Experience working at sea or on research cruises within the Great Lakes or similar large aquatic systems
  • General knowledge of freshwater ecology, harmful algal bloom (HAB) dynamics, and carbon cycle biogeochemistry

Work Setting and Environment:
  • Primary location: NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL), 4840 S. State Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48108
  • Telework approved for tasks conducive to remote work, as scheduled with the COR and Technical Lead(s)
  • Full-time schedule (1,912 hours annually), Monday-Friday, flexible hours between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.; field operations may affect hours
  • Local Great Lakes field travel expected May-November; occasional meeting travel December-April; annual travel not anticipated to exceed 4%

FWI is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets.
Why Join Our Team
At FWI, we place the highest importance on creating an exceptional employee experience. You'll have opportunities to achieve your career aspirations through internal promotions, professional development, and other recognition and rewards programs. Join our team and take advantage of the many benefits we offer, including:
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Holiday Pay
  • Paid Time Off

Pay Range
Pay range is from 39.21/hr to 41.27/hr