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National Lab Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$113K - $155K/yr

S. preferred). * 5-8 years work experience designing optical and opto-mechanical systems in a non-academic (industry, national lab, FFRDC or similar) environment with enterprise engineering practices.

We are seeking a lab manager in fast pace growing Pharmacology and CRO company. You will be a ... All employment opportunities are provided without regard to race, color religion, sex, national ...

We are seeking a lab manager in fast pace growing Pharmacology and CRO company. You will be a ... All employment opportunities are provided without regard to race, color religion, sex, national ...

We are seeking a lab manager in fast pace growing Pharmacology and CRO company. You will be a ... All employment opportunities are provided without regard to race, color religion, sex, national ...

S. preferred). * 2-5 years work experience designing, building, or testing optical and opto-mechanical systems in a non-academic (industry, national lab, FFRDC or similar) environment with enterprise ...

Laser Systems Specialist

Boston, MA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Experience in a prototype or R&D build environment (university lab, national lab, or early-stage company) The approximate base salary range for this position is $90,000 - $140,000. We consistently ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$113K - $155K/yr

S. preferred). * 5-8 years work experience designing optical and opto-mechanical systems in a non-academic (industry, national lab, FFRDC or similar) environment with enterprise engineering practices.

Senior Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$113K - $155K/yr

S. preferred). * 5-8 years work experience designing optical and opto-mechanical systems in a non-academic (industry, national lab, FFRDC or similar) environment with enterprise engineering practices.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

S. preferred). * 2-5 years work experience designing, building, or testing optical and opto-mechanical systems in a non-academic (industry, national lab, FFRDC or similar) environment with enterprise ...

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National Lab information

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How much do national lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for national lab in Boston, MA is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a national lab?

National Labs are government-funded research institutions in the United States that focus on scientific research and technological development in various fields, such as energy, physics, biology, and national security. Managed by the Department of Energy and other federal agencies, these labs employ thousands of scientists and engineers to work on projects that advance knowledge and innovation. National Labs play a key role in addressing national challenges, supporting industry, and training future scientific talent.

What are some common collaboration opportunities available for professionals working at a national laboratory?

Professionals at national laboratories frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including scientists, engineers, and external partners from academia, industry, and government agencies. These collaborations often involve joint research projects, grant proposals, and knowledge sharing that can lead to innovative solutions for complex problems. Working in this environment provides valuable networking opportunities and exposure to cutting-edge technology, making it ideal for professionals who enjoy teamwork and continuous learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a national laboratory researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a National Laboratory Researcher, you need a strong background in your scientific discipline, advanced degrees (often a Ph.D.), and experience in experimental or theoretical research. Familiarity with cutting-edge lab equipment, data analysis software, and compliance with safety protocols is typically required. Strong collaboration, problem-solving, and communication skills help researchers work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and convey results. These competencies are crucial for advancing scientific discovery, maintaining rigorous standards, and supporting the laboratory's mission.

What is the difference between National Lab vs Research Scientist?

AspectNational LabResearch Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (Master's or PhD)Usually requires a PhD or equivalent experience
Work EnvironmentGovernment-funded labs, collaborative research settingsUniversities, research institutions, or industry labs
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Energy, national research facilitiesUniversities, private companies, government agencies
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for research roles in government labsRelated to scientific research careers in various sectors

National Labs and Research Scientists both focus on scientific research, often requiring advanced degrees. National Labs are government-funded facilities emphasizing large-scale, collaborative projects, while Research Scientists work across academia and industry, often in university or private sector settings. Both roles involve conducting experiments, publishing findings, and advancing knowledge in their fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lab jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Lab jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to National Lab jobs in Boston, MA?

For National Lab jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching National Lab jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for National Lab jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for National Lab jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most National Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various National Lab job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,051 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Associate Director, STEM Proposal Specialist, Research Development

Boston University

Boston, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Boston University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

209th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Associate Director, STEM Proposal Specialist will be a key member of Boston University's central Research Development (RD) team, focused on elevating the quality, clarity, and competitiveness of STEM proposals across engineering, physical sciences, computing, and emerging technology domains. Reporting to the Director of Research Development, this role will provide expert scientific editing, strategic writing support, and faculty development programming to strengthen proposals for large-scale, multidisciplinary funding opportunities (e.g., NSF Engineering Research Centers, DOE Energy Frontier Research Centers, DoD MURIs, DARPA programs, etc.). Working in close partnership with the RD program manager for large centers, the STEM Proposal Specialist will focus on narrative development, non-technical sections, and faculty readiness, ensuring proposals are not only compliant, but compelling, and cohesive.


Required Skills
  • Advanced degree (PhD or equivalent experience) in engineering, physical sciences, computing, or a closely related STEM field.
  • Demonstrated experience in scientific writing, editing, and proposal development, particularly for federal funding agencies (e.g., NSF, DOE, DoD). 
  • Experience designing or delivering faculty development programs, workshops, or training initiatives

Preferred Experience:

  • Supporting large-scale center proposals (e.g., ERCs, MURIs, EFRCs) or institutional training grants. 
  • Familiarity with NSF CAREER and other early-career funding mechanisms. 
  • Experience in a research development or research strategy role within an R1 institution or national lab.
  • Understanding of convergence research and team science approaches.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. 


Required Experience

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About Boston University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Boston University is an international, comprehensive, private research university, committed to educating students to be reflective, resourceful individuals ready to live, adapt, and lead in an interconnected world. Boston University is committed to generating new knowledge to benefit society. We remain dedicated to our founding principles: that higher education should be accessible to all and that research, scholarship, artistic creation, and professional practice should be conducted in the service of the wider community—local and international. These principles endure in the University’s insistence on the value of diversity, in its tradition and standards of excellence, and in its dynamic engagement with the City of Boston and the world. Boston University comprises a remarkable range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs built on a strong foundation of the liberal arts and sciences. With the support and oversight of the Board of Trustees, the University, through our faculty, continually innovates in education and research to ensure that we meet the needs of students and an ever-changing world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1839

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