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Scientific Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Experience as a postdoctoral researcher, research fellow, junior/assistant professor, or senior research scientist. * Recent (last ~5 years) representative publications in the relevant subfield, with ...

Experience as a postdoctoral researcher, research fellow, junior/assistant professor, or senior research scientist. * Recent (last ~5 years) representative publications in the relevant subfield, with ...

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Scientific Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$1.8K

$5K

$10K

How much do scientific assistant jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average monthly pay for scientific assistant in Portland, OR is $5,017.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $3,162.58 and $6,158.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scientific assistant?

Scientific Assistants are professionals who support scientists and researchers in laboratories, fieldwork, or academic settings. Their duties typically include preparing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, maintaining equipment, and assisting with documentation and reporting. They play a vital role in ensuring experiments and research projects run smoothly by handling technical and administrative tasks. Scientific Assistants often work under the supervision of senior scientists or researchers and may specialize in fields such as biology, chemistry, or physics.

What are some common challenges scientific assistants face when managing multiple research projects simultaneously?

Scientific Assistants often juggle several research projects at once, which can present challenges in prioritizing tasks, maintaining meticulous records, and meeting deadlines. Balancing administrative duties, laboratory work, and data analysis requires strong organizational and time-management skills. Open communication with supervising scientists and research teams is essential to clarify expectations and ensure that all projects stay on track. Developing efficient workflows and regularly reviewing progress can help Scientific Assistants manage these demands effectively.

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

To thrive as a Scientific Assistant, you typically need a bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline, strong analytical abilities, and experience with laboratory procedures. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as Excel, SPSS, or R), and adherence to safety protocols are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you excel in supporting research activities and collaborating with team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate data collection, maintaining safe lab environments, and contributing to the success of scientific projects.

What is the difference between Scientific Assistant vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectScientific AssistantLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in science or related fieldAssociate degree or diploma in laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, government agenciesHospitals, research labs, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch projects, scientific studies, academiaSample analysis, equipment maintenance, routine testing
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level scientific rolesOften compared for technical laboratory support roles

The Scientific Assistant and Laboratory Technician roles share similarities in work environments and required credentials, but Scientific Assistants typically focus on supporting research activities, while Laboratory Technicians handle routine testing and sample processing. Both roles are essential in scientific and medical settings, with the Scientific Assistant often involved in data collection and analysis, and the Laboratory Technician performing technical procedures.

How to become a scientific assistant?

To become a scientific assistant, candidates typically need a relevant bachelor's degree in a scientific field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Gaining laboratory experience, developing technical skills, and sometimes obtaining certifications can improve job prospects. Strong attention to detail and proficiency with scientific tools and software are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Scientific jobs in Portland, OR are:

What job categories do people searching Scientific Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Scientific Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:

Infographic showing various Scientific Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,204 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

CWT Lab Assistant (Biological Science Assistant)

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

Clackamas, OR • On-site

$3.5K - $4.1K/wk

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Oregon Youth Authority rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 851 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Initial Posting Date:

08/11/2026

Application Deadline:

08/25/2026

Agency:

Department of Fish and Wildlife

Salary Range:

$3,515 - $4,124

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

CWT Lab Assistant (Biological Science Assistant)

Job Description:

Help the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife fulfill its mission: To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.

We are hiring for one permanent, full-time position located in Clackamas.

What you will do:

You will be involved in the recovery and processing of coded-wire tags from snouts of adult salmonid fish sampled in the various ocean and freshwater fisheries, spawning grounds and returns to hatcheries. This work is done in ODFW's Tag Recovery Lab at Clackamas.

In addition, you will be assisting in ODFW's annual fish marking and tagging program for juvenile salmon and steelhead trout during the peak of the mass marking and CWT tagging period (April - July). The staff member will oversee fin marking and coded-wire tagging (CWT) operations at various hatcheries and other fish rearing facilities state wide.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

For a full review of the position details, duties, and working conditions, please review the position description located here.

Clearly describe how you meet the desired attributes in your application materials. We cannot accept additional application materials after the application deadline. These materials determine whether you move forward in the selection process and help establish your starting salary. Be sure your work and education history is accurate, thorough, and fully reflects your skills and experience, even if they do not seem directly related to the position. Click here to learn more aboutEqual Pay Analysis and What You Need to Know to Get the Job

What we are looking for:

Minimum Qualifications:

Minimum qualifications are not established for this position; however, we are seeking applicants with the following experience or skills. Preference for interviews may be given to candidates with these skills and background:

  • Experience collecting and recording data
  • Experience monitoring and research of fish, wildlife, and their habitats in a field setting
  • Experience marking and tagging fish
  • Experience collecting biological data
  • Experience identifying adult and juvenile fish species
  • Data management and entry experience
  • Anyone who has or is in pursuit of a Fisheries or Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences.

Application Details and Instructions

  • The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
  • The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%
  • This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified people to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill other vacancies as they occur
  • State of Oregon Employees, must apply through their employee Workday account.
  • Please save a copy of this job announcement for reference, as it is not available for you to view after the announcement deadline
  • First time applying to the State of Oregon? Consider utilizing a WorkSource Oregon Resource event! You can also view this video or this knowledge article for assistance.
  • Reasonable accommodation for interviews will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities
  • The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After you submit your application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans' preference immediately following your submittal. These questions are necessary to complete the application process
  • If you are experiencing difficulty applying for this position or have questions, please call 503.947.6051 and ask to speak to a recruiter

BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR TEAM

ODFW is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce as we strive to represent and better serve our neighboring communities. Our most important asset is our employees, and each person brings unique, different, and important contributions to the workplace and community we serve. With Oregon's changing demographics, a workforce that reflects this change will make us stronger and create an opportunity for better decision making.

To learn more about the agency and the work we do, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about

If you enjoy the outdoors, Oregon is the place for you. We have glaciated mountain peaks to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the west and the massive Columbia River Gorge to the north. You can fish 365 days a year, and there is hunting for big game, waterfowl, and game birds. The Oregon coast attracts thousands of people who clam, crab and fish in the ocean for halibut, salmon, and tuna. The outdoor opportunities are endless when it comes to fish and wildlife in Oregon! Oregon is known for their vineyards, breweries, and adventures for the whole family to enjoy. To learn more about the department, the work we do, and see our beautiful state, view the following video at https://youtu.be/8CjDPiPMGAk

Additional benefits include:

  • 11 paid holidays a year and a competitive benefits package
  • Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • The employee in this position will be represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and will be subject to allterms and conditionsof the collective bargaining agreement. Pay and benefits on all job listings may change without notice.
  • Finalistsare subject to both acriminal history and motor vehicles check. Driving is required for this position. Adverse background and/or driving information may disqualify you from further consideration.
  • Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the U.S. Department Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. ODFW participates in E-Verify. ODFW is not able to support VISA sponsorships
  • Veterans' and Oregon National Guard preference: Eligible Veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference. For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.

Helpful Links & Resources

How to Set Job Alerts | Workday Applicant FAQ | Oregon Job Opportunities Webpage | Classification and Compensation |Ready to Relocate to Oregon | Carpool Matching Tool: Get There Oregon

More information about our agency can be found on our social media accounts: Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, and at myodfw.comand http://www.dfw.state.or.us/

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer


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