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Water Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Awg

Water Quality Reactive Scientist

Huntingdon, PA · Hybrid

An opportunity has arisen to join our Water Quality Team as a Water Quality Reactive Scientist. This is a great opportunity for someone who is looking to progress their career within Water Quality or ...

Awg

Water Quality Reactive Scientist

Lincoln, NE · Hybrid

An opportunity has arisen to join our Water Quality Team as a Water Quality Reactive Scientist. This is a great opportunity for someone who is looking to progress their career within Water Quality or ...

Wood Plc

Water Resources Scientist / Engineer

Columbia, SC

$73K - $99K/yr

Vision Generale / Responsabilites Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions is currently seeking a Water Resources/Environmental Scientist or Engineer to join our team in Columbia, South Carolina ...

Awg

Water Process Scientist

Suffolk, VA · On-site

Water Process Scientist Circa 41,400 dependent on skills and experience Fixed Term Contract - 10 months Ipswich / Colchester /Suffolk Dive into a world ofopportunity, andjoin our team! The exciting ...

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How much do water scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for water scientist in the United States is $35.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $48.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Scientists in fieldwork and data collection?

Water Scientists often encounter challenges related to unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and ensuring the accuracy of data collected from remote or diverse water sources. Fieldwork may require travel to various locations, sometimes in adverse conditions, and working with specialized equipment that needs regular calibration and maintenance. Collaboration with local authorities, landowners, and other scientists is crucial to gain access to sites and gather comprehensive data. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring high-quality research outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Water Scientist, you need a solid background in environmental science, hydrology, and chemistry, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with water quality testing equipment, GIS software, and data analysis tools, as well as certifications like Professional Hydrologist (PH), are often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret data and share findings with diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate water resource management, support regulatory compliance, and promote public and environmental health.

What are Water Scientists?

Water Scientists are professionals who study the distribution, movement, quality, and management of water resources. They analyze water samples, monitor environmental changes, and develop solutions to address water-related issues such as contamination, scarcity, and ecosystem health. Water Scientists often work for government agencies, research institutions, or environmental organizations and play a key role in ensuring safe and sustainable water supplies. Their work helps to protect public health, support agriculture, and maintain natural habitats.
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Infographic showing various Water Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,772 per year, or $35.9 per hour.
Open Rank Research Professor - Water Sciences Lab Director

Open Rank Research Professor - Water Sciences Lab Director

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Open Rank Research Professor - Water Sciences Lab Director
Department
Water Center-2225
Requisition Number
F_260016
Posting Open Date
04/20/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
07/15/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Description of Work
The Water Sciences Laboratory (WSL), is a core research facility at the University of Nebraska, administered by the Nebraska Water Center, part of the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute (DWFI) and the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR).
With a 100% administrative research apportionment, this 12-month (calendar year) non-tenure track, renewable appointment will have a 3-5 year initial appointment based on rank at time of hire. The position reports to the Nebraska Water Center director and leads all WSL activities, supervising a laboratory manager and technical staff, while supporting staff and users in day-to-day facility operations. This position is located in Lincoln, Nebraska, and will be affiliated with an academic unit in IANR to ensure the incumbent has a pathway to promotion conforming to UNL policies and guidelines. To learn more about Lincoln, please visit About Lincoln | Nebraska.
Position Responsibilities
  • Demonstrate strong communication skills, vision, and leadership to further the WSL mission to provide advanced, high quality, defensible results for water and environmental research
  • Seek out and develop relationships with external stakeholders and faculty from the university system to support joint research and service projects, enhancing laboratory services to meet user requirements while implementing practical ways to maintain quality and improve operation efficiency.
  • Actively collaborate on publications, contracts and grant opportunities, and work with the Nebraska Water Center staff to promote the facility widely to potential users on and off campus.
  • Mentor laboratory users and staff to ensure timely processing of client samples, facilitate problem-solving, and assist the laboratory manager in implementing a robust quality assurance program using a new laboratory information management system.
  • Prepare annual facility reports to the Office of Research and Innovation which integrate fiscal and technical input from an administrative advisory board, laboratory user group, and business office staff.

In addition to the above-described duties, the individual will be expected to accept committee assignments, reporting responsibilities, and other special ad hoc assignments as requested at the administrative unit, college/division, institute, and/or university level.
Recognizing that collaboration and participation in teams enhances creativity, innovation, impact, and a sense of belonging, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) and the Water Sciences Laboratory in the Nebraska Water Center are committed to creating learning, research, and Extension programming environments where the unique contributions of each individual are acknowledged and valued. Consistent with the University's N2025 Strategic Plan, we see every person and every interaction as important to our collective wellbeing and our ability to deliver on our mission.
The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.
Minimum Required Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Engineering, Environmental, Geological, or Materials Science.
  • Experience conducting scientific research, developing analytical or isotopic methods, operating and troubleshooting mass spectrometry-based equipment.
  • Track record of relevant research publications showcasing advanced analytical techniques.
  • Specialty in environmental sciences, water quality, and/or analytical method development commensurate with a research assistant professor or higher.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience managing laboratory operations, quality assurance, planning, or project management.
  • Proven ability to communicate and collaborate with faculty and stakeholders across multiple disciplines and organizations.

Work Location (City, State)
Lincoln, NE
Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required
Criminal History Background Check Required
No
Posted Salary
How to Apply
Click "Apply for this Job" and then "Faculty Application." Complete the application and attach the following documents:
  1. Letter of interest (2-page maximum) that describes your
    • Qualifications for the job.
    • Anticipated contributions in this role.
    • Experience working in an advanced analytical laboratory.
    • Anticipated contributions to creating inclusive environments in which every person and every interaction matters. See https://go.unl.edu/ianrguide for guidance in writing this statement.
  2. Curriculum vitae.
  3. Contact information for three professional references.

For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Jodi Mackin, IANR Human Resources
jmackin1@unl.edu
Job Category
Job Category (old)
Faculty Non-Tenure Leading
Job Type
12 Month (Faculty Only)
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?
No
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date
Appointment End Date
Organizational Location
Default Location

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