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Science Researcher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PhD or equivalent research experience in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field. Exceptional candidates with strong research contributions are encouraged to ...

Research Scientist II

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Research/Project Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL) Overview Under minimal or general guidance from the principal investigator, the Research Scientist classification is intended to provide a career ...

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Science Researcher information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$111.6K

$162.3K

How much do science researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for science researcher in California is $111,621.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $152,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Science Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, a solid grounding in scientific methodology, and typically an advanced degree (such as a master's or Ph.D.) in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (like SPSS or R), and data collection systems is commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective written and verbal communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for conducting reliable research, interpreting results accurately, and sharing findings with the scientific community.

What are some common challenges science researchers face when collaborating on interdisciplinary projects?

Science Researchers often encounter challenges such as differing methodologies, terminologies, and expectations when working on interdisciplinary teams. Effective communication and flexibility are key to bridging gaps between fields, ensuring that all team members understand project goals and processes. Additionally, managing data integration and balancing various timelines can be complex, but these experiences ultimately foster innovation and professional growth. Cultivating strong collaborative skills is essential for success in such dynamic research environments.

What is the difference between Science Researcher vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectScience ResearcherLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in a scientific fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industry research centersLaboratories, clinical settings, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, private researchHealthcare, manufacturing, quality control

Science Researchers typically hold advanced degrees and focus on designing experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings. Laboratory Technicians usually have technical diplomas or degrees, performing routine tests, maintaining equipment, and supporting research activities. Both roles are essential in scientific settings but differ mainly in education level, responsibilities, and scope of work.

How do you become a science researcher?

To become a science researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced positions. Gaining experience through internships, research projects, and developing skills in laboratory techniques and data analysis are also important steps in pursuing this career.

How much does a science researcher get paid?

The average salary for a science researcher varies depending on experience, education, and location, but typically ranges from $45,000 to $85,000 per year. Entry-level positions often start around $40,000, while experienced researchers with advanced degrees can earn over $100,000. Salaries may also include benefits such as research funding, conference allowances, and access to specialized equipment.

How much does a science researcher make?

The average salary for a science researcher varies depending on experience, education, and location, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced researchers with advanced degrees and specialized skills can earn over $100,000. Salaries are often complemented by benefits such as research funding and professional development opportunities.

What does a science researcher do?

A science researcher conducts experiments, collects data, and analyzes results to advance knowledge in a specific scientific field. They often work in laboratories or research institutions, using tools like microscopes, software, and laboratory equipment, and may publish findings in scientific journals.
Infographic showing various Science Researcher job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,621 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Director, Science Directorate

US National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Mountain View, CA โ€ข On-site

$210K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide executive leadership for a multidisciplinary organization conducting scientific research, instrument design, and flight project operations.

  • Oversee the formulation, budgeting, scheduling, execution, integration, and evaluation of scientific projects and programs across various scientific disciplines.

  • Lead and inspire the organization to achieve scientific research goals and ensure effective management of scientific portfolios.


Job description

The incumbent serves as Director of the Science Directorate at NASA Ames Research Center (ARC), providing executive leadership of a multidisciplinary organization conducting basic and applied scientific research, science instrument design and development, and flight project operations in the areas of astrophysics, space biosciences, Earth sciences, planetary sciences, and exobiology.Qualifications:As a basic requirement for entry into the Senior Executive Service (SES) under a career appointment, you must clearly articulate and describe within your 2-page resume that you possess the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and Mandatory Technical Qualifications MTQ(s) related to this position. If your 2-page resume does not reflect demonstrated evidence of the ECQs and MTQ(s), you may be disqualified. Any additional pages over the 2-page limit will not be reviewed.
Your resume should include evidence of progressively responsible supervisory, managerial, or professional experience which involved management of a program or organization of significant scope and complexity, normally obtained over several years by serving in positions at the GS-15 level or equivalent.
If you are (1) currently serving under a career SES appointment, (2) eligible for reinstatement into the SES (this means you were previously employed as a Career SES employee and you successfully completed a one-year probationary period), OR (3) have successfully completed a SES Candidate Development Program (CDP) and certified by OPM, you do not need to address the ECQs in your resume. However, your resume must clearly state that you are a current career SES, eligible for SES reinstatement, or SES CDP certified and year of certification.
Please DO NOT submit separate documents addressing the ECQs or MTQ(s). Only your 2-page resume will be accepted and considered. Any additional documents submitted will not be accepted.
EXECUTIVE CORE QUALIFICATIONS (ECQs)
For more information on the ECQs, please visit OPM's ECQ webpage.
ECQ 1 - Commitment to the Rule of Law and the Principles of the American Founding: This core qualification requires a demonstrated knowledge of the American system of government, commitment to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law, and commitment to serve the American people. Competencies: Knowledge of the American System of Government, Commitment to the Rule of Law, and Civic-Mindedness
ECQ 2 - Driving Efficiency: This core qualification involves the demonstrated ability to strategically and efficiently manage resources, budget effectively, cut wasteful spending, and pursue efficiency through process and technological upgrades. Competencies: Fiscal Responsibility, Managing Resources, Leveraging Technology
ECQ 3 - Merit and Competence: This core qualification involves the demonstrated knowledge, ability and technical competence to effectively and reliably produce work that is of exceptional quality. Competencies: Technical Skill, Problem Solving, Agility and Resilience
ECQ 4 - Leading People: This core qualification involves the demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a group toward meeting the organization's vision, mission, and goals, and to drive a high-performance, high-accountability culture. This includes, when necessary, the ability to lead people through change and to hold individuals accountable. Competencies: Accountability, Developing Others, Executive Judgment
ECQ 5 - Achieving Results - This core qualification involves the demonstrated ability to achieve both individual and organizational results, and to align results to stated goals from superiors. Competencies: Operational Mindset, Innovation, Strategic Thinking
MANDATORY TECHNICAL QUALIFICATION (MTQ):
Your resume must include accomplishments that address the MTQ(s).
MTQ: Demonstrated experience leading a multidisciplinary scientific organization, providing strategic direction for complex scientific research portfolios across disciplines such as astrophysics, Earth science, planetary science, space biosciences, exobiology, or related scientific fields. This includes experience leading the formulation, budgeting, scheduling, execution, integration, and evaluation of scientific projects and programs. Competencies: Program/Project Management and Research
Your application package must be in your own words. Experience statements copied from a position description, vacancy announcement, or other reference material constitutes plagiarism and may result in disqualification and losing consideration for the job. Please visit https://www.nasa.gov/careers/how-to-apply/#Artificial-Intelligence to review NASA's guidance on the use of artificial intelligent (AI) or AI-assisted tools during the application process.Education:This position has a positive education requirement. To be eligible, you must clearly state in your resume the following: degree, major and/or minor, and college/university. A college or university degree generally must be from an accredited (or pre-accredited) college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools which meet these criteria, please refer to Department of Education Accreditation page.
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major study in engineering, physical science, mathematics, life sciences, computer science, or other field of science is required.
An official transcript will be required if you are selected.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs. These education credentials must be deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, click here.Employment Type: OTHER