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

Manpower New Mexico

Engineer-Environmental

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

Bachelor's degree in occupational safety and health environmental science or a related discipline. 8+ years of experience in the semiconductor industry consulting or with a regulatory agency. 5+ ...

TERRACON

Field Geologist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

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 ...

Roadrunner Venture Studio

Lead Scientist

Albuquerque, NM

$90K - $120K/yr

This is a hands-on technical leadership position for someone who thrives in deep tech environments ... Work closely with peer R&D scientists and executive leadership to align technical milestones with ...

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All JobsEnvironmental Scientist JobsEnvironmental Scientist Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

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 Jul 22, 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 jobs can I get with environmental science?

Environmental scientists can work in roles such as environmental consultants, conservation scientists, environmental analysts, and sustainability specialists. These jobs often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and reporting, and may require knowledge of environmental regulations and tools like GIS software.

What jobs can I do with environmental science?

Environmental scientists can work in roles such as environmental consultants, conservation scientists, environmental analysts, and sustainability specialists. They often work in fields like environmental policy, water and air quality management, ecological research, and environmental education, utilizing skills in data collection, analysis, and environmental regulations.

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 do you do as an environmental scientist?

An environmental scientist studies the environment and develops solutions to environmental problems. They collect data, analyze pollution levels, and assess the impact of human activities on ecosystems. The role often involves fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and using tools like GIS software, with certifications such as the Professional Environmental Certification (PEC) being beneficial.

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 are the top 12 careers for environmental majors?

Environmental scientists can pursue careers such as environmental consultant, conservation scientist, environmental engineer, wildlife biologist, environmental policy analyst, sustainability manager, environmental technician, climate change analyst, water resource specialist, environmental educator, renewable energy analyst, and environmental health and safety officer. These roles often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of environmental regulations, and proficiency with tools like GIS and data analysis software.
More about Environmental Scientist jobs
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:
Environmental Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Environmental Scientist job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,127 per year, or $38 per hour.
HS/Associate Scientist 2

HS/Associate Scientist 2

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$5.7K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 20 hours ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 560 rated colleges and universities

Job description

HS/Associate Scientist 2
Requisition ID
req34701
Working Title
HS/Associate Scientist 2
Position Grade
13
Position Summary
The University of New Mexico Environmental Health Sciences Core Center (EHSCC), and the New Mexico Integrative Science Program Incorporating Research in Environmental Sciences (NM-INSPIRES) with the UNM College of Pharmacy seeks to hire a HS/Associate Scientist 2. NM-INSPIRES is funded by the National Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) through the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and aims to support basic and translational research, and community engagement in New Mexico. The Center supports NIH-funded investigators examining mechanisms of environmentally-induced cancers, immune and infectious diseases, and cardiopulmonary diseases of great public health importance.
The HS/Associate Scientist 2 position is an essential component of this Center and requires a broad understanding of environmental research to inform policy decisions about environmental issues that challenge the integrity and sustainability of global systems. This position will include opportunities to conduct research with mentorship within the Center to contribute to, and/or establish a research program.
Duties, Responsibilities, and Knowledge:
  • Work closely with the Center Director in all areas including prioritizing Center activities, writing progress reports to the NIH, and writing/editing annual reports, and renewal applications
  • Attend and sometimes lead Center leadership meetings and contribute ideas to foster the Center's growth, uniqueness, and identity
  • Be familiar with any new NIEHS policies and rules as it pertains to the EHSCCs
  • Support NM-INSPIRES Pilot Project Program by creating new initiatives
  • Connecting Center researchers with stakeholders/community members to facilitate community-based research pilot projects that aim to empower communities and effect policy changes
  • Support NM-INSPRES Career Development Program by creating new initiatives
  • Assist in identifying early stage investigators and providing them with resources and support to foster career development in environmental health sciences
  • Assist Program Manager in organizing the annual retreat and external advisory board meetings
  • Develop a new NM-INSPIRES seminar series and establish Center activities designed to foster environmental health science research at UNM
  • Coordinate workshops to highlight our Cores to attract new Center members
  • Maintain lists and communicate with new and existing Center members
  • Provide day-to-day technical leadership and functional supervision to other staff within NM-INSPIRES
  • Develop and work with the Administrative Core on Center Assessment. Participate in the development and delivery of reports, presentations, and manuscripts associated with research findings

See the Position Description for additional information.
Conditions of Employment
  • For individual positions in which driving is a job requirement, a valid NM driver's license and valid UNM driver's permit will be required.
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.

Minimum Qualifications
Master's degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Preferred Qualifications
  • PhD in Environmental Sciences or a related field
  • Demonstrated experience in research, community engagement, and leadership such as project/program management
  • Experience with project management and stakeholder engagement
  • Strong record or potential for publications in environmental health
  • Experience with environmental justice as evidenced
  • Organizational skills and the ability to be detail oriented
  • Knowledge of the unique environmental disparities that exist in Southwest communities
  • Commitment to working with a team
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse stakeholders and environmental researchers
  • Excellent writing skills
  • Familiarity or experience with NIEHS P30 Environmental Health Sciences Core Centers
  • Ability to interface with the internal and external individuals regarding the program activities or accomplishments
  • Ability to prepare and present training/informational material

Additional Requirements
Campus
Health Sciences Center (HSC) - Albuquerque, NM
Department
COP Pharmaceutical Sciences (553A)
Employment Type
Staff
Staff Type
Term - Full-Time
Term End Date
01/31/2026
Status
Exempt
Pay
Monthly: $5,721.73
Benefits Eligible
This is a benefits eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for a more information.
ERB Statement
As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.
Background Check Required
Yes
For Best Consideration Date
9/30/2025
Eligible for Remote Work
No
Eligible for Remote Work Statement
Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
Attach Current CV.
Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.

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