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Watershed Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$19 - $26/hr

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Department of Ecosystem Science and Management is seeking candidates who will perform a range of duties including water quality laboratory analysis, sample preparation ...

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Oakland, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California's water and wastewater agencies. Today, we are a 100 ...

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Fresno, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California's water and wastewater agencies. Today, we are a 100 ...

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California's water and wastewater agencies. Today, we are a 100 ...

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California's water and wastewater agencies. Today, we are a 100 ...

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California's water and wastewater agencies. Today, we are a 100 ...

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California's water and wastewater agencies. Today, we are a 100 ...

Dudek

Watershed Planner III

Auburn, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Watershed Sciences Work Environment: HybridCompensation: $85,000-$105,000 Dudek's journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California's water and wastewater agencies. Today, we are a 100 ...

Johnson Service Group

Be Seen First

Watershed Coordinator

Muscle Shoals, AL · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

Johnson Service Group (JSG) is seeking a Watershed Representative to support a 12-month contract ... Bachelor's degree (BA or BS) in Biology, Forestry, Ecology, Plant Sciences, or a related ...

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Watershed Science information

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$24.5K

$48.4K

$79K

How much do watershed science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for watershed science in the United States is $48,391.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a watershed scientist do?

A watershed scientist studies the movement, distribution, and quality of water within a watershed to understand how land use, pollution, and natural processes affect water resources. They often collect and analyze data using GIS tools, water sampling, and modeling techniques to inform conservation and management strategies.

What is the difference between Watershed Science vs Hydrologist?

AspectWatershed ScienceHydrologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Hydrology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Hydrology, Geosciences, or related fields
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, environmental consultingResearch, modeling, field measurements, government agencies
Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, consulting firms, research institutionsGovernment agencies, research institutions, consulting firms

Watershed Science focuses on understanding entire watersheds, including water quality, ecology, and land use. Hydrologists specifically study the movement, distribution, and properties of water within these systems. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping environments, Watershed Scientists tend to have a broader focus on ecosystem health, whereas Hydrologists concentrate on water flow and hydrological processes.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in watershed science, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in watershed science often encounter challenges such as managing complex datasets, coordinating with multiple stakeholders (including government agencies, landowners, and community groups), and addressing competing land-use interests within a watershed. These challenges can be mitigated by developing strong communication and collaboration skills, staying current with technological advancements in data analysis and modeling, and actively participating in interdisciplinary teams. Continuous professional development and engagement with local communities also play a vital role in achieving successful watershed management outcomes.

What is watershed science?

Watershed science is the study of how water, land, plants, animals, and human activities interact within a drainage basin or watershed. It involves understanding the movement, quality, and distribution of water as well as the impacts of natural processes and human activities on water resources. Watershed scientists work to monitor, protect, and restore water quality and ecosystems, often through research, fieldwork, and policy development. This field is crucial for managing water supplies, preventing pollution, and maintaining healthy environments.

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

To thrive as a Watershed Scientist, you need a background in environmental science, hydrology, or related fields, often supported by a relevant degree and field research experience. Familiarity with GIS software, water quality modeling tools, and statistical analysis programs is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help in interpreting data and collaborating with diverse stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate assessment and management of watershed health, enabling effective solutions to water resource challenges.
More about Watershed Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Watershed Science jobs? Cities with the most Watershed Science job openings:
What states have the most Watershed Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Watershed Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Watershed Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Watershed Science jobs are:
Watershed Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Watershed Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,391 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Watershed Science Research Assistant

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site, Remote

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Department of Ecosystem Science and Management is seeking candidates who will perform a range of duties including water quality laboratory analysis, sample preparation like filtering, and cleaning lab dishware. Field work ranging from routine sensor maintenance, data downloads, and sensor installation, often requiring long days in the field, carrying heavy objects on uneven terrain, and working in adverse conditions. Duties could also include detailed data analysis, data entry, and GIS analyses.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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