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Environmental Scientist Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Generate subsurface maps and cross-sections and collaborate with engineering and environmental scientist staff on projects. Oversee field monitoring and testing of soils including boring ...

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting for a Environmental Technician to support our Texas remediation services Team. The position will be tied to our El Paso, Texas office but we ...

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Environmental Scientist information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$38.6K

$79.1K

$115.7K

How much do environmental scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental scientist in Rio Rancho, NM is $79,127.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,500.00 and $92,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Environmental Scientist, you need a solid background in environmental science or related fields, strong analytical skills, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental modeling tools, and data analysis programs is often required, along with relevant certifications like HAZWOPER. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for collaboration and effective reporting. These competencies are vital for accurately assessing environmental issues, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving impactful solutions.

What type of work do environmental scientists do?

Environmental scientists analyze environmental data, conduct fieldwork, and develop solutions to environmental problems such as pollution, waste management, and conservation. They often use tools like GIS and require knowledge of environmental regulations, working in labs, offices, or outdoor settings to assess and address ecological issues.

What are some common challenges Environmental Scientists face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Environmental Scientists often collaborate with professionals from engineering, policy, and public health backgrounds. A common challenge is translating scientific findings into actionable recommendations that are understandable to non-scientists. Balancing differing priorities, such as regulatory compliance versus environmental protection, can also create tension. Effective communication and adaptability are essential for ensuring that environmental concerns are accurately represented and integrated into broader project goals.

What Do Environmental Scientists Do?

Environmental scientists conduct research designed to recognize hazardous conditions that affect the environment or public health, such as pollution or water contamination, and suggest ways to control or remove them. This research generally involves collecting and analyzing various environmental samples, examining published data from other scientists, and exploring connections between the results and human activity. Environmental scientists need to be excellent communicators and writers, preparing reports, research papers, and presentations that demonstrate and defend their findings.

What is the difference between Environmental Scientist vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEnvironmental ScientistEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, or related field; often advanced degrees for specialized rolesAssociate's or bachelor's degree in environmental technology or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research labs, data analysis, report writingField sampling, data collection, equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, consulting firms, research institutionsEnvironmental service companies, government agencies, industrial sites

Environmental Scientists and Environmental Technicians both work to protect the environment, but Scientists focus on research, data analysis, and developing solutions, while Technicians primarily collect samples and perform field tests. Their roles complement each other within environmental projects.

What are Environmental Scientists?

Environmental Scientists are professionals who study the environment and find ways to protect it from pollution and other hazards. They analyze air, water, and soil samples to identify environmental problems and develop solutions to minimize human impact on the environment. Their work often involves conducting research, preparing reports, and advising organizations and governments on environmental policies. Environmental Scientists play a crucial role in sustainability and conservation efforts worldwide.
What job categories do people searching Environmental Scientist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Scientist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Environmental Scientist jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Environmental Scientist job openings:
Field Geologist

Field Geologist

TERRACON

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 hours ago


Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Job Description
Evaluate and interpret subsurface field and sampling data including soil and groundwater to develop conclusions concerning the environmental and geologic site conditions. Generate subsurface maps and cross-sections and collaborate with engineering and environmental scientist staff on projects. Oversee field monitoring and testing of soils including boring investigations and soil type classification. Interpret soil, bedrock and groundwater elevation and quality data. Prepare written plans and reports related to site investigations, assessments and remediation activities. Projects may include construction projects focusing on earthwork and structural foundations; well design and sampling; environmental assessments including Phase I/II site assessments; seismic risk assessments.
Responsibilities
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Understand and practice quality acumen.
  • Support consistent quality standards on proposal and project delivery.
  • Developing level Geologist/ Hydrogeologist responsible for conducting analyses of component portions of projects; assignments are designed to develop knowledge and abilities.
  • Performs site visits, field observations and field data collection or assignments.
  • Assists in the collection and analysis of data from sampling, reports, maps, drawings, tests and aerial photographs to evaluate, plan and permit projects.
  • Conducts water, soil and other sampling.
  • Implements technical requirements to complete client projects by directing field staff to sample, test and collect data and/or document site activities.
  • Outlines required investigative program(s) by selecting the proper alternative techniques to conduct site studies in field of expertise.
  • May have limited client contact pertaining to specific projects/tasks.

Qualifications
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Hydrogeology or related field and a minimum of 1 year related experience.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.

Preferred Certification:
  • Certification in field of expertise preferred.

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