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Environmental Research Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Farm Worker

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

This worker will join our research farm staff and be assigned to the research farm located on the TSU main campus in Nashville. * Previous experience in a farm or agricultural environment is highly ...

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Showing results 1-20

Environmental Research information

See Tennessee salary details

$37.2K

$76.4K

$111.6K

How much do environmental research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental research in Tennessee is $76,352.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,100.00 and $89,400.00 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.

How do you become an environmental researcher?

To become an environmental researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced positions. Developing skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and environmental monitoring tools, along with gaining research experience through internships or projects, can improve job prospects.

What are the top 12 careers for environmental research majors?

Environmental research majors can pursue careers such as environmental scientist, conservation scientist, environmental analyst, sustainability specialist, environmental consultant, climate change analyst, environmental policy analyst, ecological researcher, environmental engineer, renewable energy analyst, water resource specialist, and environmental educator. These roles often require skills in data analysis, fieldwork, and knowledge of environmental regulations and tools like GIS. Many positions may require advanced degrees or certifications depending on the specialization.

What do environmental researchers do?

Environmental researchers study natural and human-made environments to identify issues such as pollution, climate change, and resource depletion. They collect data through fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and computer modeling, often using tools like GIS and statistical software to inform policy and conservation efforts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Environmental Research jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Environmental Research jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Environmental Research jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Environmental Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Environmental Research job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,352 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Research Assistant (Part-Time, Term)

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago


Vanderbilt University rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

149th of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description


Part-Time Research Assistant
Position Summary
The Granger Lab in the Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt University is seeking part-time Research Assistants to support multiple ongoing research studies focused on classroom peer relationships, emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD), teacher practices, classroom social networks, and elementary school environments.
Research Assistants will work closely with the Project Coordinator and research team to support data collection, participant communication, data management, and general research activities across several school-based projects. This position is ideal for recent graduates or individuals interested in gaining research experience before pursuing graduate training in psychology, education, special education, child development, social work, or related fields.
This is a part-time, grant-funded position. School-based hours are required.
Responsibilities
  • Assisting with school-based data collection in elementary classrooms
  • Administering surveys, questionnaires, and structured research activities
  • Assisting with data entry, coding, cleaning, and organization
  • Preparing study materials and research packets
  • Communicating with teachers and school personnel
  • Assisting with literature reviews and project organization
  • Supporting research team meetings and administrative tasks
  • Assisting with management of classroom social network, behavioral, and biomarker data
  • Maintaining confidentiality and following research protocols and IRB procedures
  • Completing other research-related duties as assigned
Preferred Qualifications
  • Enrollment in or completion of a bachelor's degree in psychology, education, special education, child development, human development, sociology, or related field preferred
  • Interest in education, child development, school psychology, or special education research
  • Experience working with children or school settings preferred
  • Strong organizational and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively
  • Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple responsibilities
  • Experience with Microsoft Office and/or research data platforms preferred
  • Access to reliable transportation is required, as this position includes travel to local school sites for data collection and project activities
About the Lab
The Granger Lab studies peer relationships, classroom social dynamics, teacher decision-making, and emotional and behavioral disorders in elementary school settings. Current projects focus on classroom social networks, teacher practices that support peer relationships, classroom adversity, and intervention development to improve social and behavioral outcomes for students.
The Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt University is consistently ranked among the top special education programs in the nation and is committed to improving outcomes for children and youth with disabilities through research, training, and practice.
Additional Information
  • Part-time position (approximately 20 hours/week depending on availability and project needs)
  • Grant-funded position
  • Compensation commensurate with experience
  • Nashville-based position with in-person responsibilities required

About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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