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Natural Science Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Natural Heritage Tech

Richmond, VA · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Applied Sciences and Natural Resources Title: Natural Heritage Tech State Role Title: Environmental ... Notify Zoology Lab Manager of the need for new or replenished lab supplies and equipment.

... natural resources, land-use planning, and geo-design. The team you will work with is collaborative ... and data science, 3D visualization and analytics, data management, and developer APIs

Earth Science Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes observational skills and evidence-based reasoning, connecting earth science to natural disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and resource management. * Curriculum Awareness ...

... natural resources, land-use planning, and geo-design. The team you will work with is collaborative ... and data science, 3D visualization and analytics, data management, and developer APIs

Earth Science Tutor

Richmond, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes observational skills and evidence-based reasoning, connecting earth science to natural disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and resource management. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Earth Science Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes observational skills and evidence-based reasoning, connecting earth science to natural disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and resource management. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Earth Science Tutor

Norfolk, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes observational skills and evidence-based reasoning, connecting earth science to natural disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and resource management. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Emphasizes observational skills and evidence-based reasoning, connecting earth science to natural disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and resource management. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Emphasizes observational skills and evidence-based reasoning, connecting earth science to natural disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and resource management. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Earth Science Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes observational skills and evidence-based reasoning, connecting earth science to natural disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and resource management. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Earth Science Tutor

Blacksburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes observational skills and evidence-based reasoning, connecting earth science to natural disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and resource management. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Earth Science Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes observational skills and evidence-based reasoning, connecting earth science to natural disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and resource management. * Curriculum Awareness ...

... natural resources, land-use planning, and geodesign. The team you will work with is collaborative ... and data science, 3D visualization and analytics, data management, and developer APIs

Showing results 21-40

Natural Science Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$28.8K

$103.7K

$117K

How much do natural science manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for natural science manager in Virginia is $103,678.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,000.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a natural science manager?

To thrive as a Natural Science Manager, you need a strong background in scientific research, project management, and typically a graduate degree in a relevant science field. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory management systems, and sometimes specific certifications in project management or environmental regulations are commonly required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help managers coordinate teams and translate scientific findings into actionable strategies. These combined skills ensure successful project execution, regulatory compliance, and the advancement of organizational goals in scientific settings.

How long does it take to become a natural science manager?

Becoming a natural science manager typically requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as biology, chemistry, or environmental science, which takes about four years. Many positions also prefer or require a master's degree or higher, along with several years of experience in scientific research or project management, making the total pathway often 6 to 10 years depending on education and experience accumulation.

What is the difference between Natural Science Manager vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectNatural Science ManagerEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in natural sciences, often with management experienceBachelor's or higher in environmental science, biology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLeads teams in research, labs, or field projects within organizationsConducts fieldwork, research, and data analysis in environmental settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, government agencies, private companiesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, NGOs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles in natural sciencesEnvironmental research and fieldwork roles

The main difference is that a Natural Science Manager oversees scientific teams and projects within natural sciences, focusing on management and coordination, while an Environmental Scientist primarily conducts research and fieldwork to assess environmental conditions. Both roles require relevant scientific credentials, but the manager's role emphasizes leadership and organizational skills.

How do natural science managers balance administrative duties with leading scientific research projects?

Natural Science Managers often split their time between overseeing administrative tasks—such as budgeting, scheduling, and compliance—and guiding the scientific direction of their teams. This dual responsibility requires strong organizational skills, as managers must ensure that research projects stay on track while also managing staff, reporting progress, and securing funding. Effective Natural Science Managers create clear communication channels and delegate tasks appropriately to balance these demands, enabling them to support both the scientific and operational success of their departments.

What is a natural science manager?

Natural Science Managers are professionals who oversee the work of scientists, including chemists, physicists, and biologists, in organizations such as research institutions, government agencies, or private companies. They are responsible for planning and coordinating scientific research and development projects, managing budgets, and ensuring that their teams meet project goals and comply with regulations. In addition to administrative duties, they may also help develop research strategies and interpret results. Natural Science Managers usually have extensive experience in a scientific discipline and strong leadership skills.

How much do natural science managers make?

Natural science managers in Colorado typically earn an average annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and the specific industry. They often oversee research projects, manage teams, and require strong knowledge of scientific methods and project management skills.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Natural Science Manager jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Natural Science Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Natural Science Manager job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,678 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

09583 - Natural Resource Spec Sr

Virginia Department of Transportation

Bristol, VA • On-site

$65K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

594th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description


To support VDOT construction and maintenance programs and to protect the natural environment by providing sound engineering and environmental consultation and services.
How you will contribute:
  • Compensation Site Monitoring and Design: Develop wetland mitigation strategies, including the design of wetland compensation sites to facilitate the permitting of transportation projects. Identify potential mitigation alternatives and perform site selection in project development process. Study potential mitigation sites to evaluate feasibility, cost effective and constructability. Develop conceptual and final design, vegetation schedule, typical sections, outlet control structures, construction and vegetation notes, monitoring requirements and special provisions to facilitate construction of mitigation site. Design wetlands, stream and riparian restoration alternatives to meet permit requirements.
  • Environmental Liaison: Represent VDOT in resolving water quality permit issues and conditions with local, state and federal agencies throughout the project development process to ensure timely issuance of water quality permits. Act as Environmental Liaison, providing guidance throughout project development and construction processes regarding environmental, design and constructability issues. Provide expert technical advice to construction and maintenance personnel regarding on-going projects and activities to remain environmentally compliant on projects. Maintain knowledge of state and federal water quality laws and regulations to facilitate development of transportation projects.
  • Project Management: Provide leadership and environmental and engineering guidance district-wide related to design, water quality, erosion and sediment control, SWM, BMPs, and endangered and threatened species. Support project development and construction processes consistent with environmental regulations, policies, procedures and project schedules. Monitor and update CEDAR software program. Manage water quality portion of the district environmental program. Manage projects that have significant or complex water quality related issues to meet advertisement schedules.
  • Water Quality Permitting: Coordinate or conduct water quality field studies or surveys, biological impact studies and wetland delineations early in the project development process. Plan for and develop avoidance and minimization alternatives for environmental resources in the scoping phase of project development. Provide quality control for both VDOT and consultant water quality design submittals. Oversee development of permit packages. Assemble design and environmental data and prepare permit applications consistent with ad dates. Present projects at the Interagency Coordination Meeting and acquire permits to meet ad schedules.

  • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to apply civil engineering and environmental sciences in the design of wetlands, stream restoration, erosion and sediment control and BMPs.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with diverse audiences and to make presentations and conduct meetings.
  • Ability to develop strategies to avoid, minimize and compensate for environmental impacts.
  • Ability to plan, organize and work on multiple task concurrently.
  • Ability to prepare conceptual designs and special contract provisions.
  • Ability to read, interpret and apply environmental laws and regulations to transportation projects.
  • Ability to work with the public on environmental issues.
  • Knowledge of NEPA, water quality permits, wetlands, stream stabilization, erosion and sediment control and storm water management laws, regulations and permit processes.
  • Knowledge of civil engineering, erosion and sediment control and storm water management.
  • Knowledge of environmental sciences, wetland sciences, and aquatic ecology, fisheries, hydrology, hydraulics and soil sciences.
  • Knowledge of federal and state environmental laws and regulations.
  • Knowledge of solid waste and hazardous materials, threatened and endangered species, pollution prevention, and cultural resources laws, regulations and permit processes.
  • Skill in the use of computers and software applications.
  • Skill in wetland delineation, soil taxonomy and plant identification, aquatic macro benthic identification and biological sampling protocols.

  • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Considerable knowledge of federal, state, local transportation, environmental rules, regulations, policies and practices.
  • Skill in reading highway engineering plans.
  • Skill in the application of environmental requirements to transportation or similar operations.
  • Skill in the use of computers and software applications.
  • Skill in wetland delineation and permitting.
  • Skill in working with project proponents to avoid, minimize, and mitigate environmental impacts.
  • Training and experience in construction inspection, asbestos safety awareness and hazard communications.
  • Valid driver's license.

  • Additional Considerations:
  • A combination of training, experience or education in environmental science, natural sciences, forestry, biology, chemistry, geology, hydrology or related field desired.
  • DEQ: Inspector for Erosion Sediment Control (ESC IN)
  • Knowledge of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, 1987 COE Wetland Delineation Manual, wetland ecology and management.
  • Progressively responsible experience managing complex projects in the transportation engineering and construction industry.
  • Wetland Professional in Training (WPIT) or Professional Wetlands Scientist (PWS) designation.

  • Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
    Competency Model
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
    VDOT Code of Ethics
    Standards of Conduct
    Qualifications
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    About Us
    VDOT utilizes a market based pay program, which has been approved by DHRM. Therefore, advertised rates of pay may or may not align with the Commonwealth pay bands.
    In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: Career Pathways for Individuals with Disabilities, or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155.
    Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer.
    Please be aware all VDOT positions require pre-employment screenings. These screenings may include the following:
    • Fingerprint based Criminal History Background Check
    • DMV Record Check
    • Work History Verification
    • References
    • Pre-employment physical
    • Drug screen

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