ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freshwater Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Versar, Inc.

PTOC Freshwater Taxonomist

Columbia, MD · On-site

$24.35 - $26/hr

Bachelor's degree in marine science or related field required * 15+ years of technical experience in conducting Freshwater benthic macroinvertebrate taxonomy * SFS (Society for Freshwater Science ...

ACRT

Macroinvertebrate Taxonomist

Stow, OH · On-site +1

A. degree in natural science field of study Experience: 2+ years of experience in macroinvertebrate sampling and genus or species level identification in freshwater ecosystems. Preferred ...

ACRT

Macroinvertebrate Taxonomist

Stow, OH

A. degree in natural science field of study Experience: 2+ years of experience in macroinvertebrate sampling and genus or species level identification in freshwater ecosystems. Preferred ...

ACRT

Macroinvertebrate Taxonomist

Stow, OH · On-site

A. degree in natural science field of study Experience: 2+ years of experience in macroinvertebrate sampling and genus or species level identification in freshwater ecosystems. Preferred ...

Wisconsin

Animal Care Technician III

Bayfield, WI · On-site

$41K/yr

Bachelor or Master's degree, from an accredited institution, in aquaculture, fisheries biology, freshwater science, hatchery management or related water-science field, is preferred. How to Apply: TO ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFreshwater Science Jobs

Freshwater Science information

See salary details

$11K

$80.4K

$153.5K

How much do freshwater science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for freshwater science in the United States is $80,389.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical projects or responsibilities for someone working in Freshwater Science?

Professionals in Freshwater Science often conduct fieldwork to collect water and biological samples, analyze data to assess water quality or ecosystem health, and prepare reports or recommendations for environmental management. Depending on the position, you might collaborate with governmental agencies, conservation organizations, or research institutions to develop restoration plans or monitor the impact of human activities. Teamwork is common, as projects often require input from hydrologists, ecologists, engineers, and policy experts. This diversity of tasks provides an engaging, dynamic work environment, and offers excellent opportunities for skill development and professional growth.

What is a Freshwater Science job?

A Freshwater Science job involves studying freshwater ecosystems, including rivers, lakes, wetlands, and groundwater. Professionals in this field research water quality, aquatic life, pollution impacts, and habitat restoration. They often work for government agencies, environmental organizations, universities, or consulting firms. Their work helps protect water resources, support biodiversity, and inform policies for sustainable water management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Freshwater Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Freshwater Science, you typically need a background in biology, ecology, or environmental science, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with field and laboratory research. Familiarity with water quality monitoring tools, GIS software, statistical analysis programs, and sometimes certifications like HAZWOPER or professional society memberships are valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help set candidates apart in this interdisciplinary role. These skills ensure accurate research, effective data interpretation, and collaborative project outcomes essential to managing and protecting freshwater resources.

More about Freshwater Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Freshwater Science jobs? Cities with the most Freshwater Science job openings:
What states have the most Freshwater Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Freshwater Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freshwater Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freshwater Science jobs are:
Freshwater Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freshwater Science job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, and 96% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,389 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Freshwater Macroinvertebrate Taxonomist

Freshwater Macroinvertebrate Taxonomist

Normandeau Associates

PA • On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Normandeau is seeking a full-time, experienced Freshwater Macroinvertebrate Taxonomist to support our ecological laboratory at our Stowe, PA office. This position primarily involves laboratory and office work, with occasional field responsibilities. On an annual basis, duties are typically performed in a laboratory or office setting approximately 70% of the time, with the remaining 30% dedicated to fieldwork. During the field season (generally April through October), field responsibilities may increase.
Laboratory and office work is conducted year-round and generally follows a standard 8-hour workday. Field assignments, may require consecutive days working outdoors alongside a field crew in a variety of weather conditions, including potentially remote or physically challenging environments. Field days typically range from 8 to 12 hours and may include irregular schedules, extended hours, and weekend work.
Overnight travel and extended assignments in other states may be needed, depending on project needs.
Essential Responsibilities:
  • Laboratory Sample Processing, Identification, and Analysis
    • Process collected samples in preparation for identification. This may include, but is not limited to, sorting and/or subsampling following standard protocols.
    • Identify freshwater benthic macroinvertebrates to the family, genus, or species level using taxonomic keys and microscopy from samples collected from freshwater waterbodies of the eastern United States.
    • Maintain and organize a reference collection of specimens to ensure taxonomic accuracy.
    • Perform quality control and validation of identification data to ensure consistency and reliability in results and analysis.
    • Maintain laboratory equipment or supply inventory and ensure proper storage.
  • Field Work and Surveys
    • Collect samples from streams, rivers, lakes, and wetlands using a variety of standard sampling techniques.
    • Ensure proper handling, preservation, and labeling of collected specimens following established protocols.
    • Assess and document habitat conditions, including instream characteristics such as substrate composition, flow regime, and water depth.
    • Maintain field equipment ensuring proper cleaning, storage, and transport.
  • Data Management and Reporting
    • Tabulate, manage, and analyze data using MS Excel.
    • Assist with report writing and preparation.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • BS/BA in zoology, environmental science, biology, or similar focus.
  • 1 year of experience with freshwater macroinvertebrate taxonomy.
  • Specific experience with identification of freshwater invertebrates from benthic habitats.
  • Experienced with the use of compound and dissecting microscopes and taxonomic keys.
  • Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
  • Physical ability to work in outdoor field conditions, including wading in streams and rivers and carrying equipment.
  • Organizational skills to manage workload and the ability to assist with multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Valid Driver's License.
  • Must be able to successfully complete a HAZWOPER medical evaluation.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Certification as a Taxonomist by the Society for Freshwater Science.
  • Field work experience.
  • Small boat handling experience.

Salary: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour. Rate is negotiable with higher levels for experience.
Benefits:
  • Medical (with HRA), Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Employer paid LTD and Basic Life
  • Optional additional life insurance
  • 401k with employer match
  • ESOP program
  • 2 personal days a year
  • 11 paid holidays a year
  • 1 volunteer day a year
  • Accrued vacation and sick time

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply