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Pavement Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Data Scientist

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$190/hr

Our platform is perfecting the art and science of pay to give 9,000+ companies unparalleled ... Support Pave's data products, including Pave Data Lab and Market Data, with research, analysis, and ...

Data Scientist

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$139K - $174K/yr

We're looking for a Data Scientist to join this pod and help us scale our storytelling, serve our ... Support Pave's data products, including Pave Data Lab and Market Data, with research, analysis, and ...

R&D Food Scientist

Aurora, CO ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

R&D Food Scientist Are you ready to elevate your career in manufacturing operations and be a part ... We have an amazing opportunity to join a high-growth organization and pave the way for future ...

Showing results 21-40

Pavement Research Scientist information

See salary details

$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do pavement research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for pavement research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a pavement research scientist do?

A Pavement Research Scientist studies the materials, design, construction, performance, and maintenance of roadways and other paved surfaces. They conduct experiments and analyze data to develop new materials or methods that improve the durability, safety, and sustainability of pavements. Their research often supports advancements in transportation infrastructure, helping agencies and companies make informed decisions about road construction and rehabilitation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pavement research scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pavement Research Scientist, you need advanced knowledge in civil engineering, materials science, and pavement design, typically supported by a relevant graduate degree. Experience with laboratory testing equipment, pavement analysis software (such as AASHTOWare or PAVEXpress), and familiarity with industry standards are crucial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you interpret data and present findings to diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure the development of innovative, durable pavement solutions that meet safety, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness goals.

How does a pavement research scientist typically collaborate with other professionals in infrastructure projects?

As a Pavement Research Scientist, you will frequently collaborate with civil engineers, materials scientists, transportation planners, and construction teams. Your role often involves providing data-driven recommendations on pavement materials or design, interpreting test results, and contributing to technical reports. Effective communication skills are important, as you may be required to present research findings to stakeholders or help implement new technologies in the field. This interdisciplinary teamwork ensures that research outcomes are practical and aligned with real-world project goals.

What is the difference between Pavement Research Scientist vs Civil Engineer?

AspectPavement Research ScientistCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or related fields; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Civil Engineering; professional licensure may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agencies, industry R&D centersConstruction sites, design offices, project sites, consulting firms
Industry UsageSpecializes in pavement materials, durability, testing, and researchDesign, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure including roads and bridges

While both roles require a background in civil engineering, Pavement Research Scientists focus on research, testing, and development of pavement materials, often working in labs or academic settings. Civil Engineers typically work on designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects in the field or office. The roles complement each other within the transportation and infrastructure industry.

More about Pavement Research Scientist jobs

What cities are hiring for Pavement Research Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Pavement Research Scientist job openings:

What states have the most Pavement Research Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Pavement Research Scientist jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Pavement Research Scientist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Pavement Research Scientist jobs are:

Infographic showing various Pavement Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Senior Civil Engineer - Pavement and Geotechnical

Berriehill Research

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

$108K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform and lead project work related to pavement and geotechnical engineering.

  • Develop and contribute to research, proposals, and presentations in the field.

  • Engage in business development and marketing efforts, including developing proposals in response to RFPs.


Job description

ARA is seeking experienced civil engineers, with emphasis in research related to pavement and geotechnical engineering and pavement/geotechnical asset management, to work full-time in our Transportation Division, Pavement Sciences & Engineering Directorate.

It is preferred that this be an on-site position working in an ARA office in one of the following cities: Champaign, IL; Ventura, CA; Madison, WI; Austin, TX; Mechanicsburg, PA; Dallas, TX; Egg Harbor Township, NJ. However, a remote work exception may be considered for the right candidate who has a proven track record of success in a remote environment and possesses the experience, professional network, and self-direction necessary to work effectively from a remote location. Please indicate your location preference in your application.

We are looking for dynamic engineers who are comfortable with autonomy and leadership, and who enjoy solving complex problems; individuals who want a job that offers challenges that go beyond routine, repetitive tasks. Our engineers are actively involved in all aspects of the research and consulting engineering profession, which includes problem solving, using subject matter knowledge and innovation to offer quality solutions to our clients. Our senior engineers also market to bring in new business, and write high-quality reports, papers, and proposals.

With this position comes a high level of freedom to be innovative and self-directed along with an ability to pursue projects and tasks that are interesting and meaningful. At the same time, candidates must be able to work as a member of an integrated team and exhibit a collegial and professional demeanor towards colleagues and external stakeholders.

Senior civil engineers are expected to:

  • Perform and lead project work in one or more areas related to pavement/geotechnical engineering.
  • Work toward industry status as a subject matter expert.
  • Lead and contribute to business development and marketing efforts.
  • Develop winning proposals in response to RFPs in their area of expertise.
  • Present research and information at conferences, training courses, industry meetings, department meetings, client meetings, etc.

Senior civil engineer requirements:

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree or higher in Civil Engineering.
  • 10+ years of experience related to pavement and/or geotechnical engineering. Graduate/academic research may be considered in partial fulfillment of the experience requirement, if directly applicable.
  • Proven experience of independently leading research projects or research tasks/activities.
  • Strong communication (written and verbal) and organizational skills. Publications in peer-reviewed journals and relevant conference presentations a plus.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • Candidates selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $108,000 to $125,000/year, depending on education and experience, as well as location. ARA also offers competitive benefits that address our employeesโ€™ needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our benefits at https://www.ara.com/benefits/.

About ARA:

ARA is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs more than 2,200 professionals and continues to grow. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in civil technologies, computer software and simulation, defense technologies, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for pavement analysis, environmental site characterization, and robotics.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the companyโ€™s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, โ€œEngineering and Science for Fun and Profitโ€ sums up the ARA experience.