ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Project Scientist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Giant Magellan Telescope

Project Scientist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$155K - $240K/yr

Project Scientist Element: Science Manager: Chief Scientist Type: Full-Time Location: Pasadena, CA Job Summary Reporting to the GMTO Chief Scientist (CS), the Project Scientist (PS) will assist and ...

UC San Diego

Assistant Project Scientist

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$97K - $121K/yr

Assistant Project Scientist Salary range: A reasonable salary range estimate for this position is $97,000 -$121,800. The posted UC academic salary scales (Current Academic Salary Scales | UCOP) set ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProject Scientist JobsProject Scientist Jobs in California

Project Scientist information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$80.2K

$149K

How much do project scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for project scientist in California is $80,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $100,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Project Scientist?

Project scientists are assigned research tasks on a project. You find project scientists in many different industries. As a project scientist, you may work to create new products in a specific industry to meet projected market demands, or you may research ways to improve an established product. For example, a project scientist in the textile industry may try to discover a soft yet durable fabric to be used in making clothing. To become a project scientist, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in the science field in which you wish to work and extensive research experience.

What is a Project Scientist?

A Project Scientist is a professional who manages and conducts scientific research within specific projects, often in academic, government, or industry settings. They are responsible for designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and ensuring that the scientific goals of the project are met. Project Scientists often collaborate with other researchers, supervise laboratory staff, and contribute to scientific publications or reports. Unlike principal investigators, they may not lead their own research groups but play a critical role in advancing project objectives.

What is the difference between Project Scientist vs Research Scientist?

AspectProject Scientist

Required CredentialsTypically requires a Ph.D. or equivalent in a relevant scientific field
Work EnvironmentWorks on specific projects, often within research institutions or industry labs
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in government agencies, biotech, pharmaceuticals, and research organizations
Primary FocusConducts research, experiments, and data analysis to support project goals

Research Scientists and Project Scientists both hold advanced degrees and work in research settings. However, Research Scientists often focus on fundamental research and long-term scientific inquiry, while Project Scientists are more involved in applying research to specific projects with defined objectives. The roles overlap in credentials and work environment, but Project Scientists tend to work more closely with project management and deliverables.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Project Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Project Scientist, you need advanced scientific knowledge, research experience, and typically a master's or doctoral degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with data analysis software, laboratory instruments, and project management tools is common in this role. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and collaboration skills are crucial soft skills for success. These competencies enable Project Scientists to efficiently lead research initiatives, ensure data integrity, and achieve project goals within multidisciplinary teams.

What are the typical collaboration dynamics for a Project Scientist within a research team?

As a Project Scientist, you will frequently collaborate with principal investigators, research associates, technicians, and sometimes external partners to execute project goals. You are often responsible for coordinating experimental design, data analysis, and reporting findings, ensuring that all project milestones are met. Regular meetings, interdisciplinary teamwork, and clear communication are crucial to address challenges, share progress, and integrate diverse expertise within the group. This collaborative environment fosters learning and may open opportunities for leading sub-projects or mentoring junior staff.
More about Project Scientist jobs
What are popular job titles related to Project Scientist jobs in California? For Project Scientist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Project Scientist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Project Scientist jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Project Scientist jobs in CA? For Project Scientist jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Project Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Project Scientist job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,212 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Project Scientist

Giant Magellan Telescope

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$155K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Title: Project Scientist
Element: Science
Manager: Chief Scientist
Type: Full-Time
Location: Pasadena, CA
Job Summary
Reporting to the GMTO Chief Scientist (CS), the Project Scientist (PS) will assist and support the CS in all aspects of the scientific definition, development, and planning efforts for design and construction of the GMT observatory, and in interacting with the scientific community.
To this end, the PS will have a variety of specific responsibilities working with the GMTO Science Advisory Committee; working with the Project Manager and technical team; supporting the activities of the Development and Communications team and the Education and Public Outreach team. The successful candidate will represent the project at national and international meetings.
The ideal candidate will be an experienced observational astronomer with at least 10 years of post-doctoral experience in research, writing publications and grants, and giving scientific, technical, and public talks. Research and observational experience should include a range of observational techniques, data analysis and reduction. The ideal candidate will also have experience in the development of optical and infrared imagers and spectrographs, adaptive optical (AO) systems, and the integration and scientific operation of AO-enabled high-contrast, high spatial resolution, and high temporal resolution astronomical instrumentation
Job Duties
Work with the Chief Scientist to provide scientific leadership for the GMT Project. Specific areas of support will include:
  • The scientific and logistical organization of the annual Community Science Meetings.
  • Serve as an ex-officio member and vice-Chair of the Science Advisory Committee to support the Chair in coordinate the activities and presentations to the SAC and organize SAC meetings.
  • Monitor and refine the scientific, functional, and operational requirements for the Observatory as appropriate, responding to evolution of the field and input from the community and Project.
  • Maintain the GMT Observatory Level One Requirements.
  • Work closely with the GMT Project Manager, Project Engineer and System Engineer to ensure the implementation of the Level 1 Requirements throughout the construction and commissioning phases.
  • Serve as a member of the GMT Change Control Board.
  • Works closely with the Science Instrument Element Manager to develop the first-generation science instruments and develop the second-generation instrumentation plan.
  • Oversee the development and implementation of the science requirements for the GMT instruments during the development of the first-generation instruments, in collaboration with the Science Instrument Element Manager.
  • Work with the Project Manager on the development of the operational plans for the observatory.
  • Work with the Lead Systems Engineer to guide commissioning activities.
  • Support GMT's Development and Communications Team as needed.
  • Support GMT's Education and Public Outreach activities as needed.

Essential Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
  • A PHD in astronomy, astrophysics, or related field.
  • 10 years post-doctoral experience engaged in observational research using ground-based observations.
  • Demonstrated analytical, leadership, maangement, and organizational skills.
  • Demonstrated excellence in scientific writing and verb al communication in English.
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively in diverse scientific, technical, and public environments.
  • Ability to travel and work in a variety of environments, including the GMTO offices in Pasadena, Santiago (Chile), international GMTO partner sites, and the GMTO site within Las Campanas Observatory (LCO) in Chile.

Desired Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
  • Experience in instrument development for ground-based observatories
  • Experience in the development and use of adaptive optics systems on 8-m class telescopes
  • Experience with the daytime and nighttime operation of 8-m class optical observatories.
  • Experience supporting the development of international scientific projects.

Working Conditions
  • Open-plan office spaces
  • Indoor and outdoor fabrication and construction sites
  • National and international travel

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to travel by air between US, Chile, and international work sites
  • Ability to function safely and effecitvely in remote and high elevation (2500m/8500ft) observatory environments

Direct Reports
None
Featured Benefits
  • Medical Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Dental Insurance
  • Disability Insurance

Hiring Range
$155,000-$240,000
The salary for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, and training.
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, contact a Giant Magellan Telescope Corporation Human Resources Representative.

Apply