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Scientist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Meso Scale Discovery

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$128K - $200K/yr

D. in Life Sciences, Engineering or related field preferred. o Additional postdoctoral or industrial experience preferred. o Master's degree may be considered with at least 6 years of independent and ...

MSD

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$128K - $200K/yr

D. in Life Sciences, Engineering or related field preferred. o Additional postdoctoral or industrial experience preferred. o Master's degree may be considered with at least 6 years of independent and ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Data Scientist

Alexandria, VA

R0241243 Data Scientist The Opportunity: In this role, you will apply data science techniques and met hods and leverage a suite of data-driven tools to aid the client's service leadership and subject ...

Meso Scale Discovery

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$101K - $154K/yr

D. in Life Sciences, Engineering or related field preferred. o Additional postdoctoral or industrial experience preferred. o Master's degree may be considered with at least 6 years of independent and ...

The Columbia Group

Data Scientist

Washington, DC

We are seeking Junior to Senior Level Data Scientists to join our team in locations such as: Washington, DC Metropolitan and San Diego, CA. Upon award, the ideal candidate will: * Develop and ...

MSD

Scientist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$101K - $154K/yr

D. in Life Sciences, Engineering or related field preferred. o Additional postdoctoral or industrial experience preferred. o Master's degree may be considered with at least 6 years of independent and ...

Cmu

Data Scientist

Arlington, VA

Data Scientists at the SEI use advanced statistics, data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to help our government and industry clients research and solve cybersecurity ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Data Scientist

Alexandria, VA

Data Scientist The Opportunity: In this role, you will apply data science techniques and methods and leverage a suite of data-driven tools to aid the client's service leadership and subject matter ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Data Scientist

Alexandria, VA

R0241573 Data Scientist The Opportunity: In this role, you will apply data science techniques and met hods and leverage a suite of data-driven tools to aid the client's service leadership and subject ...

The Columbia Group

Data Scientist

Washington, DC

We are seeking Junior to Senior Level Data Scientists to join our team in locations such as: Washington, DC Metropolitan and San Diego, CA Upon award, the ideal candidate will: Develop and implement ...

THOMSON REUTERS

Data Scientist

Mclean, VA · Hybrid

TRSS Data Scientists serve several Federal Law Enforcement agencies by collecting, integrating, resolving, analyzing, modeling, and explaining large data in support of complex investigations. Success ...

Thomson Reuters

Data Scientist

Mclean, VA · On-site

TRSS Data Scientists serve several Federal Law Enforcement agencies by collecting, integrating, resolving, analyzing, modeling, and explaining large data in support of complex investigations. Success ...

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Scientist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$48

$51

$54

How much do scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientist in Reston, VA is $51.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50.53 and $53.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Scientist do?

A Scientist is a professional who conducts research to increase knowledge in a specific field, such as biology, chemistry, physics, or environmental science. They design and perform experiments, analyze data, and publish their findings to advance understanding and solve real-world problems. Scientists may work in laboratories, universities, government agencies, or private industry. Their work often contributes to technological advancements, public health, and policy development.

What jobs do scientists have?

Scientists work in various fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and data analysis. They conduct research, perform experiments, analyze data, and develop new theories or products, often working in laboratories, research institutions, or industry settings. Many scientists also require specialized skills, certifications, and access to scientific tools and equipment.

What Does a Scientist Do?

Scientists work in a remarkably diverse array of industries. Companies employ scientists to develop and improve products. Universities hire scientists to teach and do research in different disciplines; healthcare companies have a team of scientists working on medications, vaccines, and new treatments; and governments employ scientists to help with public projects. Scientists not only perform their specific job duties, but they contribute to the broader scientific community to increase knowledge of the physical world.

What is the difference between Scientist vs Chemist?

AspectScientistChemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in science-related fieldsBachelor's, Master's, or PhD in chemistry or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industry settingsLaboratories, manufacturing plants, research institutions
Industry UsageBroadly used across scientific research, academia, industryPrimarily in chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, quality control

While both Scientists and Chemists work in research and laboratory settings, Scientists have a broader scope across various scientific fields, whereas Chemists specialize specifically in chemistry. Chemists often focus on chemical reactions, compounds, and materials, while Scientists may work in multiple disciplines such as biology, physics, or environmental science. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but their specific focus areas differ based on industry needs.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

For a scientist or related roles, high-paying positions without a degree are rare; most scientific careers require at least a bachelor's degree. However, some technical or specialized roles in fields like sales, real estate, or skilled trades can reach or exceed $10,000 monthly with experience and skills. Freelance consulting or entrepreneurial ventures in science-related areas may also achieve this income level without formal degrees, but they typically require significant expertise and network development.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of science, senior roles such as lead researchers, principal scientists, or those in specialized industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or data science can earn $400,000 or more annually, often with advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation is typically associated with executive-level positions or roles in high-demand, high-impact sectors.

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

To thrive as a Scientist, you need a solid background in your scientific discipline, strong analytical skills, and typically at least a bachelor's or advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or R), and adherence to safety protocols are commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating and sharing findings. These skills ensure rigorous research, reliable results, and impactful contributions to scientific advancement.

What are some common challenges scientists face when working on multidisciplinary research teams?

Scientists often collaborate with experts from various fields, which can present challenges such as differing terminologies, research methodologies, and expectations. Navigating these differences requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from other disciplines. Successful multidisciplinary teamwork often leads to innovative solutions, but it also demands effective project management and regular coordination to ensure all team members are aligned toward shared goals.

What jobs can you do as a scientist?

Scientists work in various fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and data analysis. They conduct research, perform experiments, analyze data, and develop new technologies or solutions. Many scientists work in laboratories, research institutions, government agencies, or private industry, often requiring specialized skills and advanced degrees.
More about Scientist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientist jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Scientist jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Scientist jobs in Reston, VA? For Scientist jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scientist jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Scientist jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Scientist jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Scientist job openings:
Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scientist job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,655 per year, or $51.8 per hour.
PHYSICAL SCIENTIST

PHYSICAL SCIENTIST

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

$102K/yr

Other

Posted 24 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 518 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

The incumbent serves as a Scientific Advisor to the assigned Technical Support Group (TSG) Chief in the Contingency Operations Department (CZ-CO) and provides scientific and technical expertise to DoW, National Security Staff, and other US Government Department/Agencies (D/As) senior officials to prevent, protect from, respond to, and recover from radiological and nuclear (R/N) threats or incidents.Qualifications:You may qualify at the GS 12 , if you fulfill the following qualifications:
A. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level in the Federal service, military or private sector:
  • Analyzing radiological/nuclear (R/N) threats and related detection problems in order to provide operational and scientific solutions to the organization and supported units
  • Utilizing field radiological/nuclear (R/N) detectors and apply knowledge of field detection capabilities and limitations, with experience interpreting both detection and spectroscopic R/N data
  • Calculating the effects of radiation shielding for both detection and force protection
  • Applying knowledge of radiological threats in support of emergency response events
  • Participating in radiological/nuclear (R/N) response operations, exercises or training
You may qualify at the GS 13 , if you fulfill the following qualifications:
A. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level in the Federal service, military or private sector:
  • Analyzing radiological/nuclear (R/N) threats and related detection problems in order to provide operational, scientific and policy solutions to the organization and supported units
  • Utilizing field radiological/nuclear (R/N) detectors and apply knowledge of field detection capabilities and limitations, with experience interpreting both detection and spectroscopic R/N data and making operational recommendations
  • Calculating the effects of radiation shielding for both detection and force protection
  • Applying knowledge of nuclear weapon designs and radiological threats in support of emergency response events
  • Participating in radiological/nuclear (R/N) response operations, exercises and training
In addition to specialized experience, this position requires an individual occupational requirement:
A. Degree: physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics.
B. Combination of education and experience -- education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level.
Employment Type: OTHER

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