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Water Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lotus Water

WATER RESOURCES ENGINEER II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

Lotus Water is seeking a mid-level design engineer, with 3-5 years of experience, to support our ... Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering * Proficient in AutoCAD and set up of plan sheets

Lotus Water

WATER RESOURCES ENGINEER II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

Lotus Water is seeking a mid-level design engineer, with 3-5 years of experience, to support our ... Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering * Proficient in AutoCAD and set up of plan sheets

Lotus Water

WATER RESOURCES ENGINEER II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

DOE Lotus Water is seeking a mid-level design engineer, with 3-5 years of experience, to support ... Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering * Proficient in AutoCAD and set up of plan sheets

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How much do water scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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.

How to become a water scientist?

To become a water scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in environmental science, hydrology, geology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced research roles. Developing skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and using tools like GIS and modeling software is important, along with gaining experience through internships or research projects.

What is the highest paid environmental job?

The highest paid environmental jobs often include senior roles such as environmental engineers, environmental managers, and environmental directors, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. Positions in consulting, government agencies, or private industry that require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and leadership responsibilities tend to offer the highest compensation in the environmental field.

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 is a water scientist?

A water scientist studies the properties, distribution, and quality of water resources, often conducting research, monitoring water systems, and developing solutions for water management and pollution control. They typically use scientific methods, laboratory tools, and fieldwork to assess water-related issues and support environmental protection efforts.

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.

What can I do with a water science degree?

A water scientist can work in environmental consulting, water resource management, research, or regulatory agencies, focusing on water quality, hydrology, and sustainability. The role often requires skills in data analysis, field sampling, and knowledge of environmental regulations, with opportunities in government, private industry, and research institutions.
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Water Scientist jobs near you
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.

Ichthyoplankton Scientist Chief Scientist Support - Level II

Lynker Corporation

La Jolla, CA

$80K - $115K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Lynker Corporation is seeking to hire an Ichthyoplankton Scientist – Chief Scientist & Survey Operations Support to support a long-term federal fisheries and ecosystem science support program with NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). This is a full-time position anticipated to begin upon contract award. Hiring for this position will be contingent on contract award. Lynker will be operating under its FLOAT joint venture.

This program supports fisheries stock assessments and ecosystem monitoring efforts through laboratory and field collection of ichthyoplankton and biological survey data. Scientific staff support long-term ocean observing and fisheries research programs, including California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations (CalCOFI) surveys conducted throughout the California Current ecosystem.

The Ichthyoplankton Scientist will support advanced laboratory analysis and survey coordination activities, including serving as Chief Scientist on fisheries and ecosystem monitoring surveys. This role includes coordination of survey operations, oversight of scientific staff, and management of sample collection and processing activities supporting fisheries stock assessments and ecosystem monitoring. 


Duties of the Ichthyoplankton Scientist will include the following:
  • Sorted samples vialed, labeled, and boxed following standard protocols
  • All count and measurement data recorded on standard data forms and all completed forms delivered to data entry personnel
  • Data analyses and literature reviews, as needed, to be used in preparation of scientific manuscripts
  • Sample collection data sheets and identification/count databases are completed and preserved following standard protocols
  • Trawl catch compositions and demographic data for target species are collected following cruise-specific protocols
  • Monthly progress report to include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following: accomplishments, issues encountered, significant outcomes, action items, and recommendations if applicable
  • Serve as Chief Scientist on CalCOFI and related surveys
  • Plan and coordinate station activities to meet scientific objectives
  • Communicate with the vessel bridge and coordinate ship operations
  • Serve as liaison between ship crew, scientific staff, and Principal Investigators
  • Coordinate onboarding and offloading of scientific equipment and supplies
  • Schedule scientific staff and manage shift operations during surveys
  • Ensure adherence to sampling protocols and data collection standards
  • Oversee sample processing, identification, counting, and measurement activities
  • Support data analyses and contributions to scientific studies and reports
  • Prepare monthly progress reports

The Ichthyoplankton Scientist should have the following:
  • Bachelor’s degree plus three (3) years of relevant experience; Master’s degree plus two (2) years of relevant experience; or Ph.D. in a related field
  • Experience using a microscope to sort fish eggs, larvae, and plankton samples
  • Experience making biological measurements using laboratory instruments
  • Experience identifying fish eggs and larvae, particularly coastal pelagic species
  • Experience in plankton sample collection and processing using standard protocols
  • Experience processing fish from trawl surveys (e.g., biological sampling and measurements)
The ideal Ichthyoplankton Scientist will have the following:
  • Experience serving in a Chief Scientist or similar leadership role on research surveys
  • Experience coordinating scientific staff and at-sea operations
  • Experience working aboard research vessels
  • Experience supporting stock assessments or ecosystem monitoring programs
  • Experience contributing to scientific publications or technical reports
  • Ability to complete required medical clearances for fieldwork
Place of Performance:

On-site at SWFSC in La Jolla, CA, with laboratory work and vessel-based survey participation.

Travel:

Travel is required for research cruises and field sampling operations.

About Lynker

Lynker is a growing, employee owned business, specializing in professional, scientific and technical services. Our continually expanding team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement.

We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. And having the right people is critical for success. Our streamlined organization enables and empowers our talented professionals to tackle our customers' scientific and technical priorities – creatively and effectively.

Lynker offers a team-oriented work environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. Lynker's benefits include the following:

  • Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost
  • Healthcare benefit covers medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision
  • Personal Time Off (PTO) Policy plus paid holidays
  • Highly competitive compensation plan regularly calibrated against industry and location benchmarks
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – we're all company owners!
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Life and accident insurance
  • Tuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement per year
  • Spot bonuses for exceptional performance
  • Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System to learn at your own pace
  • Personalized career growth plans for every employee

Lynker is an E-Verify employer.

Lynker is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local laws.

* This position is advertised through our joint venture, FISH and Lynker Ocean Alliance Team (FLOAT), a partnership between Lynker and Fisheries Immersed Sciences Hawaii (FISH) serving the NOAA ProTech Fisheries 2.0 IDIQ contracting vehicle.

 Fraud Alert: Recruitment Scam Warning: Lynker has been made aware of fraudulent individuals posing as Lynker recruiters and offering fake job opportunities. All legitimate Lynker job postings are listed on our official careers page. Communication from Lynker recruiters will come from an official @lynker.com email address.

 
 
 
 

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