ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch Assistant JobsResearch Assistant Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Research Assistant information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$7

$20

$29

How much do research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for research assistant in Rio Rancho, NM is $20.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $23.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Research Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectResearch AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often in a related field; some roles require a master'sAssociate's degree or certification in laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, or corporate R&D settingsLaboratories, hospitals, or industrial labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, biotech companiesHospitals, diagnostic labs, manufacturing plants
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Research Assistant and a Laboratory Technician lies in their roles and qualifications. Research Assistants typically hold a bachelor's or master's degree and focus on supporting research projects, data analysis, and academic studies. Laboratory Technicians usually have an associate's degree or certification and perform routine lab tests and maintenance. Both roles work in laboratory environments but serve different functions within research and clinical settings.

What are some common challenges Research Assistants face when balancing multiple projects, and how can they effectively manage their workload?

Research Assistants often juggle several projects simultaneously, which can lead to competing deadlines and shifting priorities. To manage these challenges, it's important to maintain clear communication with supervising researchers, use organizational tools such as project management software or detailed timelines, and regularly review progress with the team. Setting realistic expectations and proactively seeking clarification on priorities can also help ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Developing these time management and collaboration skills is crucial for success in a dynamic research environment.

How much is a research assistant paid?

Research assistants typically earn between $12 and $25 per hour, depending on their experience, education level, and the industry or institution. In some cases, they may receive stipends or salaries ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 annually for full-time positions, especially in academic or research settings.

What Does a Research Assistant Do?

Research assistants gather and document information for their employer. As a research assistant, your responsibilities vary depending on the setting and field in which you work. Most research assistants work in academia, either in the science or humanities departments at a university, or for research institutes. Duties may include collecting data from the library and other sources, conducting surveys, and recruiting volunteers. In a laboratory setting, you may prepare, clean, and maintain lab equipment, assist with experiments, and log readings and results.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

Research assistants typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, social science, or engineering. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with research tools or software are also important qualifications.

What exactly does a research assistant do?

A research assistant supports research projects by collecting, analyzing, and organizing data, often using tools like spreadsheets or statistical software. They may also review literature, prepare reports, and assist with experiments or fieldwork under the supervision of a lead researcher or professor.

How to get work as a research assistant?

To work as a research assistant, candidates typically need a relevant educational background such as a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in research methods and data analysis, and applying to positions through university departments, research institutions, or online job boards are common steps. Strong organizational skills and proficiency with tools like statistical software can improve chances of employment.

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

To thrive as a Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant academic background, often with a bachelor's or master's degree in the field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), literature databases, and sometimes laboratory equipment is typically required. Effective communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities help Research Assistants collaborate and manage complex tasks efficiently. These skills are crucial for producing accurate, reliable research results and supporting the project's overall success.

What are research assistants?

Research assistants are individuals who support research projects by helping with data collection, analysis, literature reviews, and administrative tasks. They often work under the supervision of a lead researcher or professor in academic, scientific, or industry settings. Research assistants may also contribute to the preparation of reports, presentations, and publications. Their role is essential in ensuring that research projects are conducted efficiently and accurately.
More about Research Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Research jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Research Assistant jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Research Assistant job openings:
Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Assistant job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,864 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Research Assistant/Staff

Research Assistant/Staff

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time, Temporary

Posted 15 days ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Research Assistant/Staff
Requisition ID
req35388
Working Title
Research Assistant/Staff
Position Grade
06
Position Summary
Provides technicalassistance, as assigned, in the collection, processing, and coordination ofdata, samples, and/or specimens for a specified research study or group ofstudies. Works within established research protocol and under specificinstructions as to method, process, and technique to perform or assist withroutine tests, experiments, and/or procedures relevant to the field of study.
This is a temporary position with an expected end date of January 31, 2026.
See the Position Description for additional information.
Conditions of Employment
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or GED; at least 1 year of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities which may include practicum.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Research experience participating in research on atmospheric water harvesting.
  • Research experience conducting field research to collect atmospheric water samples, lab research to process field water samples and measure water quality, and data analysis to determine trends in meteorology, air quality, and water quality.
  • Able to travel to field sites across Albuquerque (specifically City of Albuquerque Environmental Health Department Air Quality Program sites) and perform lab and data analysis.
  • Currently enrolled in a degree-granting program at an accredited higher education institution, or have obtained at minimum a bachelor's degree.

Additional Requirements
Campus
Main - Albuquerque, NM
Department
Civil Construction & Env Engrr (456A)
Employment Type
Staff
Staff Type
Temporary - Part-Time
Term End Date
Status
Non-Exempt
Pay
Hourly: $20.00
Benefits Eligible
This is not a benefits eligible position.
ERB Statement
As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.
Background Check Required
No
For Best Consideration Date
Eligible for Remote Work
No
Eligible for Remote Work Statement
Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
Please attach resume.
Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.

What University Of New Mexico employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply