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Water Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Williammary

Research Scientist

Gloucester Point, VA

$65K/yr

The Research Scientist will join the Coastal Systems Modeling Group within CCRM to support and advance research in coastal hydrodynamics, water quality processes, and next-generation operational ...

Tidal Vision

Research Scientist

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$34 - $36/hr

This position willparticipatein other non-routine water treatment experiments, as well as support non-water treatment related laboratory projects as needed. Thechemistwillbe responsible ...

USALCO

Research Scientist

Baltimore, MD · On-site

S. provider of specialty water treatment chemistries, services, and digital solutions, serving ... The Research Scientist is expected to personally design, run, document, and interpret experiments ...

Teledyne FLIR LLC

Research Scientist

Durham, NC · On-site

These markets include aerospace and defense, factory automation, air and water quality ... Join Teledyne Scientific & Imaging as a Research Scientist ! Are you ready to launch your career to ...

Teledyne

Research Scientist

Durham, NC

These markets include aerospace and defense, factory automation, air and water quality ... Join Teledyne Scientific & Imaging as a Research Scientist ! Are you ready to launch your career to ...

Skild AI

Research Scientist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$100K - $300K/yr

We are looking for passionate individuals who are eager to explore uncharted waters and contribute to our innovative projects. Position Overview We are looking for Research Scientists to lead the ...

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Water Research Scientist information

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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do water research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for water research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water research scientist do?

A Water Research Scientist studies the physical, chemical, and biological properties of water to understand and solve issues related to water quality, availability, and sustainability. They conduct experiments, collect water samples, analyze data, and develop methods to detect and remove pollutants. Their research helps inform policy, guide water resource management, and protect public health and the environment. Water Research Scientists often work for government agencies, environmental organizations, or research institutions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a water research scientist?

To thrive as a Water Research Scientist, you typically need a strong background in environmental science, hydrology, or chemistry, usually supported by an advanced degree such as a master's or PhD. Familiarity with analytical laboratory equipment, GIS mapping software, and water quality testing protocols is essential, and certifications like Certified Environmental Scientist can be beneficial. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills are crucial for conducting accurate research, developing innovative solutions, and informing policies that protect water resources.

What are common challenges faced by water research scientists when conducting field studies?

Water Research Scientists often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, accessibility issues at remote sampling sites, and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of collected data. Coordinating with local authorities and stakeholders is frequently necessary to gain site access and comply with environmental regulations. Additionally, managing and maintaining specialized equipment in the field while adhering to strict safety protocols can be demanding, requiring strong problem-solving skills and adaptability.

What is the difference between Water Research Scientist vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectWater Research ScientistEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Water Resources, or related fields; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related fields; may include certifications in environmental management
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sites focused on water systems, research institutionsFieldwork, laboratories, government agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, water agencies, environmental consultanciesGovernment agencies, NGOs, consulting firms, private companies

Both roles focus on environmental issues, but Water Research Scientists specialize specifically in water systems and resources, often conducting research and analysis related to water quality, treatment, and management. Environmental Scientists have a broader scope, addressing various environmental concerns beyond water, including air quality, soil, and ecosystems.

More about Water Research Scientist jobs

What cities are hiring for Water Research Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Water Research Scientist job openings:

What states have the most Water Research Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Water Research Scientist jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Water Research Scientist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Research Scientist jobs are:

Water Research Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Research Scientist I, Hydrogeology

University of Idaho

Moscow, ID • On-site

$90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

University Of Idaho rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

361st of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Internal Posting?
Posting Number
SP005330P
Position Title
Research Scientist I, Hydrogeology
Division/College
College of Agricultural & Life Sciences
Department
IWRRI
Location
Boise
Posting Context Statement
We invite applications from collaborative and innovative researchers committed to interdisciplinary approaches in water science and management. We are seeking a Research Scientist with expertise in hydrogeology and numerical groundwater flow modeling (including Modflow) with interests in co-production of research with a wide range of stakeholders and partners. This position is housed in IWRRI and is a non-tenure track research appointment with no formal teaching responsibilities.
Position Overview
Serves as an independent researcher, or a collaborator on a multi-scholar research initiative. May have lead responsibility for discrete components of a larger project under the general direction of a senior or principal researcher.
Duties may include:
  • Perform complex scientific analyses
  • Adjust experimental designs as necessary based on experimental data analysis
  • Direct the development of recommendations for project solutions
  • Perform peer review of scientific projects, studies, or applications and making recommendations
  • Prepare peer reviewed publications or presentations
  • Resolve complex project specific technical and regulatory issues
  • Establish work priorities and performance standards, hiring, training, evaluating staff, assigning, and reviewing work
  • May be responsible for technical project management to include developing the scope of work, budgeting, scheduling, reporting, implementing field projects, and approving scientific documents
  • Other duties as assigned

Unit URL
https://iwrri.uidaho.edu/
Position Qualifications
Required Experience
  • Three years of research experience related to the domain of this position

Required Education
  • Doctoral Degree in Hydrogeology, Hydrology, Engineering, Environmental Science or other related discipline; Master's Degree plus an additional two years of research experience (5 years total) may be substituted for a Ph.D.

Required Other
  • None

Additional Preferred
  • Demonstrated expertise in hydrogeology, numerical groundwater flow modeling and experience developing MODFLOW models for groundwater systems
  • Two years of experience beyond PhD, or MS with 4 years' experience
  • Technical proficiency with quantitative data analytics and workflows (e.g. R, Python, GIS, Modflow, GitHub)
  • Experience with experimental design and complex data analysis
  • Demonstrating ability to work independently
  • Experience conducting research across multiple disciplines and a record of success working effectively in collaborative, cross-disciplinary teams
  • Strong written and oral communication skills, including peer-reviewed journals and experience communicating with non-academic audiences
  • Record of 2 or more lead-author publications in peer-reviewed journals

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
  • None

Degree Requirement
Listed degree qualification is required at time of application
Posting Information
FLSA Status
Exempt
Employee Category
Exempt
Pay Range
$90,000 annually or higher, commensurate with experience
Type of Appointment
Fiscal Year
FTE
1.0
Full Time/Part Time
Full Time
Funding
This position is contingent upon the continuation of work and/or funding.
A visa sponsorship is available for the position listed in this vacancy.
Yes
Posting Date
06/22/2026
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applications received by July 29, 2026, will receive first consideration.
Along with your online application, please provide:
  • CV including contact information for 3 professional references
  • 1-page Cover Letter describing your research interests, how you meet the required and preferred qualifications and how you envision contributing to the applied research mission of IWRRI
  • A 1 paragraph response to the following questions: (upload as PDF to Other Document 1 field)
    • Please describe your experience developing a hydrogeologic model. In your response, outline the assumptions you typically make, the data sources you rely on, and the tools or software you use.

The Idaho Water Resources Research Institute (IWRRI) is one of the nation's 54 water research and technology centers. IWRRI coordinates research to support the water resource needs of the state of Idaho, the northwest region, and the nation. IWRRI also facilitates and develops innovative education and outreach programs that provide research-generated information to water managers, agency research scientists, and the public at large. IWRRI scientists conduct community-identified actionable water research with the opportunity to expand their research agenda by securing extramural competitive grants.
For questions, please contact:
Kendra Kaiser
Idaho Water Resources Research Institute
Email: kkaiser@uidaho.edu
Applicant Resources
https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources/careers/applicant-resources
Background Check Statement
Applicants who are selected as final possible candidates must be able to pass a criminal background check.
EEO Statement
The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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