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Freshwater Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$15 - $19/hr

The Sweetman Lab in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management is seeking a lab assistant position for research examining the impact of macroplastic pollution on freshwater ecosystems in ...

CARDINAL POINT CAPTAINS INC

Steward Assistant

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

The R/V Lake Guardian berths at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Freshwater Sciences Marine Facilities dock in Milwaukee, Wisconsin when not conducting survey operations throughout the ...

Innovate!, Inc.

Senior Geospatial Scientist

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120 - $138/hr

Knowledge of open-science principles, metadata, reproducible research, code repositories, and transparent documentation. * Familiarity with Pacific salmon ecology and the freshwater, estuarine ...

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How much do freshwater science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 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 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 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 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 I do with a freshwater science degree?

A freshwater science degree prepares individuals for careers in environmental consulting, water resource management, conservation, research, and policy development related to freshwater ecosystems. Graduates often work for government agencies, research institutions, non-profit organizations, or private companies, utilizing skills in data collection, analysis, and environmental monitoring. Certifications in GIS, water quality testing, or environmental impact assessment can enhance job prospects.

What do freshwater scientists do?

Freshwater scientists study the ecosystems, water quality, and organisms in lakes, rivers, and streams. They conduct fieldwork, collect data, analyze water samples, and develop conservation or management strategies to protect freshwater environments.
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What states have the most Freshwater Science jobs?

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Freshwater Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freshwater Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,389 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Data Science Support - Data Collection and Management

Think Tank, Inc.

Seattle, WA

Contractor

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

*Position is Subject to Contract Award

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Description of Duties:

  • Compile and organize existing large spatial and temporal datasets for evaluating effects of management actions on managed fish or shellfish populations in freshwater, estuarine, or nearshore marine environments of the PNW.
  • Conduct literature reviews to extract data and published relationships between ecological outcomes and potential stressors or habitat metrics.
  • Collect fish and environmental data in freshwater, estuarine, and nearshore marine environments (harsh conditions; may involve driving vehicles/boats/trailers and occasional ship-survey assistance).
  • Lead data processing and visualization; share compiled data, comprehensive workflow protocols, and research products so others can interact with and understand the work.
  • Write reports, contribute to journal manuscripts, and present results at regional meetings and scientific conferences, as needed.
  •  

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

Required:

  • Education: Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college/university with a major related to the task order, with emphasis in fisheries, ecology, natural sciences, mathematics, statistics, oceanography, or hydrology.
  • Experience: Three (3) or more years of relevant experience, including familiarity with the species and habitats managed by NOAA Fisheries in the West Coast region.

Desired:

  • Advanced degree in a related field - may substitute for two (MS) or four (PhD) years of experience.

CERTIFICATIONS:

Required:

  • Valid U.S. driver's license - required and maintained throughout the period of performance.
  • Public trust suitability; background investigation cleared prior to beginning performance.
  • Government-required training to be completed within 5 business days of start: NOAA IT Security, NOAA Safety, Sexual Assault/Sexual Harassment Prevention & Response (NAM 1330-52.222-70(b)(6)), and Records Management 101. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Required (Deliverables):

  • Datasets compiled from existing sources or extracted from literature reviews, stored in an accessible, organized way (e.g., interactive data dashboards backed by code repositories).
  • Reproducible workflows documented in written reports and code repositories.
  • Written status reports and other ad hoc communications as needed.

SKILLS:

Required:

  • Strong quantitative skills including familiarity with modeling and data analysis; familiarity with software such as R, GitHub, etc.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication; experience writing reports and publishing peer-reviewed articles.
  • Familiarity with common workplace software such as Google Suite and Microsoft Office.
  • Ability to manage workload, stay organized, and produce high-quality work efficiently; able to work independently and on interdisciplinary teams.

Apply