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Freshwater Science Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Lab/Field Technician

Ludington, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Strong preference will be given to local candidates with a full or partial college degree in environmental sciences/biology * Experience with small boat operations and knowledge of freshwater/Great ...

Showing results 41-60

Freshwater Science information

See Michigan salary details

$9.6K

$70.1K

$133.8K

How much do freshwater science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for freshwater science in Michigan is $70,066.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,400.00 and $97,600.00 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 freshwater science?

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 freshwater science, 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.

What can you do with a freshwater science degree?

A freshwater science degree prepares individuals for careers in environmental consulting, resource management, research, and conservation related to freshwater ecosystems. Graduates can work as aquatic biologists, water quality specialists, environmental educators, or policy advisors, often utilizing fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data management skills. Certifications in water testing or GIS can enhance job prospects in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Freshwater Science jobs in Michigan?

For Freshwater Science jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freshwater Science jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Freshwater Science jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Freshwater Science job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,066 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Lab/Field Technician

HDR

Ludington, MI • On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


HDR rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 447 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water Business Group, you'll help shape how communities manage water for generations to come. From delivering safe drinking water and treating wastewater responsibly to developing sustainable water supplies and protecting lives and property through flood control, your work will directly support public health, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure resilience. We bring together experts across disciplines to solve complex challenges with bold thinking and technical excellence. Whether you're modernizing aging systems or pioneering innovative approaches, your contributions will make a meaningful difference in people's lives. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to lead change, drive progress, and leave a lasting legacy.
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.
The Lab/Field Technician is a temporary/part-time position based in Ludington, Michigan. The role will assist setting and lifting scientific gill nets on Lake Michigan, pick captured fish from gill nets and sort into species and size groups, count measure and weigh fish, mend and repair gill nets as well as keep the facility clean. Big lake experience with boats, trailers, and fish handling strongly preferred. Shift schedules include early mornings, evenings and weekends as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Strong preference will be given to local candidates with a full or partial college degree in environmental sciences/biology
  • Experience with small boat operations and knowledge of freshwater/Great Lakes fish species is preferred

#LI-EV1
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Microsoft Office product experience
  • General background-related experience
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917