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Field Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Execute field research operations related to planting, thinning, weeding, pollinations, and sample ... seed packaging. * Assist with general facility operations including general clean-up and ...

Referral bonuses About the Role: We're looking for dependable Temporary Research Workers to support a field research program. This is a hands-on seasonal position with duties that may vary throughout ...

Support seed production activities such as field scouting, data collection, and roguing fields. * Coordinate closely with the Agronomy Supervisor and Research Specialist to support day-to-day field ...

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Field Research Assistant information

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$24K

$46.6K

$97.5K

How much do field research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for field research assistant in the United States is $46,629.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,500.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a field research assistant?

A Field Research Assistant supports research projects by collecting data, conducting surveys, and assisting in field experiments. They often work outdoors or in various locations relevant to the study, gathering samples, taking notes, and ensuring data accuracy. This role requires attention to detail, organizational skills, and sometimes physical stamina, depending on the research setting. Field Research Assistants typically work under the supervision of senior researchers or scientists.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a field research assistant?

To thrive as a Field Research Assistant, you must have a solid understanding of data collection techniques, observational skills, and often hold a degree in a relevant scientific field. Familiarity with GPS devices, data entry software, and laboratory equipment may be required, as well as certifications like first aid depending on fieldwork conditions. Strong attention to detail, adaptability, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this position. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safety, and smooth collaboration with research teams in sometimes challenging or remote environments.

What are the typical working conditions and environments for field research assistants?

Field Research Assistants often work outdoors in a variety of environments, such as forests, wetlands, agricultural sites, or urban areas, depending on the project focus. The job may involve traveling to remote locations, working in different weather conditions, and sometimes performing physically demanding tasks like hiking or carrying equipment. Most positions require working on a team, collaborating closely with lead researchers and other assistants to gather accurate field data. If you enjoy hands-on, dynamic work and being part of scientific investigations outside an office setting, this role offers an exciting and rewarding experience.

Is it hard to get a job as a field research assistant?

Securing a position as a field research assistant can vary depending on the field, location, and level of experience, but generally requires relevant education, such as a degree in a related discipline, and sometimes prior research or fieldwork experience. Competition may be moderate, and strong organizational and data collection skills are often valued. Entry-level roles are accessible with proper qualifications and a willingness to work outdoors or in remote environments.

What qualifications do I need to be a field research assistant?

To be a field research assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring or requiring a bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology, environmental science, or social sciences. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work outdoors in various conditions are important, along with familiarity with data collection tools and basic computer skills.
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What cities are hiring for Field Research Assistant jobs?

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What are the most commonly searched types of Field Research jobs?

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What states have the most Field Research Assistant jobs?

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Infographic showing various Field Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,629 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Field Research Assistant

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$16.88 - $19.01/hr

Full-time

Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


University Of New Mexico rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Field Research Assistant
Requisition ID
req37454
Working Title
Field Research Assistant
Position Grade
06
Position Summary
Field and lab technician to work on SHIPs for the FOR-NM project. This position will work on building out electrical components of the SHIPs in the lab. Responsible for supporting Lead SHIP technician in testing and calibrating sensors in the lab. This position will support the Lead SHIP technician in the installation of these sensors in the field.
Work requires periods of heavy physical effort, handling heavy objects, general construction skills, and/or extended periods of standing or walking for large portions of the work day. Field work may involve prolonged exposure including high temperatures, dusty conditions, high light, low humidity, and high winds. Outdoor work may also include chance encounters with poisonous snakes or spiders however these organisms will not be handled in any way. Laboratory work may include exposure to hazards or physical risks that require following basic safety procedures. The duty station for this position is UNM Biology. Often requires working long hours in the field outside of normal business hours (dawn-dusk measurement campaigns, etc.).
See the Position Description for additional information.
Conditions of Employment
  • Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
  • Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.

Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or GED; at least 1 year 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
  • Demonstrated experience operating safely in remote and rugged terrain. Wilderness first aid training is preferred.
  • Demonstrated technical understanding of electronics and electricity. A background in engineering is desirable.
  • Demonstrated experience with computer programming. Demonstrated experience with basic construction tools such as hand saw, table saw, cordless drills, etc.

OTHER DESIRABLE SKILLS:
  • Demonstrated proficiency with Campbell datalogger programming and data retrieval, interface with multiplexers and sensors.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with instrumentation, and ecophysiological field instrumentation. In particular, basic micrometeorology sensors, soil water content, temperature and sapflow probes.

Additional Requirements
Campus
Main - Albuquerque, NM
Department
AS Biology General Administrative (048F)
Employment Type
Staff
Staff Type
On-Call
Term End Date
Status
Non-Exempt
Pay
Hourly: $16.88-$19.01
Benefits Eligible
No Benefits
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
No
For Best Consideration Date
8/11/2026
Eligible for Hiring Incentive
Eligible for Remote Work
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.
Submit a resume with UNMJobs application.
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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