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Project Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RK&K is currently seeking a Senior Project Scientist to support our Florida team. This position will work with a variety of projects including transportation infrastructure, water resources ...

Wetland Project Scientist

Manchester, NH · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

BETA Group, Inc is looking for a Wetland Project Scientist to join our growing New Hampshire team and play a key role in shaping environmentally responsible projects across New England. From ...

Sr. Project Scientist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Trileaf is seeking a full-time Sr Project Scientist with 5 -15 years of experience conducting environmental and real estate due diligence (Phase I Environmental Site Assessments and Property ...

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Project Scientist information

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$38K

$81.3K

$151K

How much do project scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for project scientist in the United States is $81,277.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a project scientist do?

A project scientist conducts research, experiments, and data analysis related to specific scientific projects, often working under the supervision of principal investigators. They typically have advanced degrees in their field and use tools like laboratory equipment or software to support project goals. Their responsibilities include designing experiments, collecting data, and ensuring scientific accuracy throughout the project lifecycle.

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 jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

A Project Scientist typically requires advanced education and specialized skills, making it unlikely to earn $10,000 monthly without a degree. However, some high-paying roles in sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach that income level without formal degrees, often relying on experience, networking, and skill development. These roles may involve self-employment, commission-based pay, or freelance work.

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.

Which 3 jobs will survive AI?

Project scientists and other research-focused roles that require complex problem-solving, creativity, and domain expertise are less likely to be fully replaced by AI. Jobs involving strategic decision-making, advanced scientific research, and specialized technical skills tend to persist, especially when combined with continuous learning and adaptability. Roles that require human judgment and nuanced understanding are expected to remain in demand despite AI advancements.

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.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of science and research, senior project scientists or principal investigators in specialized areas such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $400,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles. High compensation often correlates with seniority, industry demand, and the complexity of projects managed.
What cities are hiring for Project Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Project Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Project Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Project Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Project Scientist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Project Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,277 per year, or $39.1 per hour.
Project Scientist III

Project Scientist III

RK&K

Tampa, FL • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


RK&K rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

317th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

RK&K is currently seeking a Senior Project Scientist to support our Florida team. This position will work with a variety of projects including transportation infrastructure, water resources, utilities, and site development. You will work with a multidisciplinary team to guide projects through Florida's regulatory environment by managing current projects, leading project teams, and collaborating with regulatory agencies and clients.

Essential Function

  • Assist engineering teams with regulatory guidance, permitting strategies, technical writing, proposal development, construction environmental compliance, and oversight/management of environmental tasks for a variety of projects
  • Coordination with Water Management Districts, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), and United States Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) on 401/404 permit applications, United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS), United States Coast Guard (USCG), and other regulatory agencies to receive successful authorizations
  • Assist staff with technical study documentation and associated agency coordination
  • Assisting our National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) staff with NEPA compliance efforts. Technical writing assignments would include: natural resources evaluations, protected species habitat assessment and survey reports, and regulatory agency permitting applications
  • Coordinate multi-discipline tasks related to wetland delineations, threatened and endangered species, wetland mitigation, stormwater management, Section 4(f)/recreational resources, air and noise, hazardous materials, and Section 106 Cultural Resources
  • Manage task deliverables and complete QA/QC reviews and procedures
  • Give presentations or complete interviews with clients
  • Regularly coordinate with clients by means such as regular progress meetings
  • Facilitates meetings and presentations with existing and potential clients.

Required Skills and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Natural Resources, Environmental Science, Biology/Biological Sciences, Engineering, Environmental Policy, Forestry, or related discipline
  • 8 years of technical and management experience in natural resources and other environmental permitting
  • Comprehensive knowledge of local, state and federal laws and regulations with demonstrated experience in environmental project delivery
  • Infrastructure engineering/design and construction concepts
  • Client-facing experience with clients such as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), FDEP, USACE, USFWS, or Florida Power & Light (FPL)
  • Municipal Projects
  • Excellent verbal, technical writing, and computer skills, especially with Microsoft Office and ArcGIS
  • Adept at research and problem-solving
  • Detail oriented, energetic, and highly reliable with a strong work ethic
  • Outstanding responsiveness to client and project needs
  • Experience managing project tasks and teams
  • Demonstrated ability to develop project approaches and lead successful projects
  • Skilled in verbal and written communications

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • 15 years of technical and management experience in natural resources and other environmental permitting
  • Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP), Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB) American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), Professional Engineer (PE), or similar credentials
  • FWC Gopher Tortoise Mechanical Excavation Permit
  • Graduate degree in related field a plus
  • Experience or understanding of geographic information systems

Other Duties

This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions (as covered under ADA) expected. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities and duties required by the employee. Other duties are assigned as required.

What We Offer

RK&K offers excellentpotentialforcareer advancementand professional growth. We also offer attractive compensation packages commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Paid time off
  • Hybrid work (home and office)
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances
  • Paid parental leave
  • Wellness programs and employee resource groups
  • Career Development
  • Matching 401(k) plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Much, much more!

Why RK&K?

As a full-service engineering and construction management firm, RK&K gives you the opportunity to directly impact the communities in which we live and work. What sets RK&K apart is an award-winning culture that has fostered a spirit of collaboration and trust for over 100 years. To its clients, the firm delivers concepts, processes, and outcomes that are designed for success. RK&K has earned its reputation as a trusted partner, responsive employer, and community steward.

Design your career at RK&K, Apply Today!