High-paying science jobs in Columbia
Science explores the natural world through research and experimentation. Scientists test hypotheses, analyze data, and contribute new knowledge. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are important.
The 23 science jobs listed below pay well, with salaries between $45,251 and $97,419 per year. Scientist, Laboratory Supervisor and Research Specialist are among the most popular high-paying roles in Columbia, MO.
Job title
Updated Oct 18, 2026
Job title
Columbia, MO
Missouri
Job openings (Columbia)
Laboratory Supervisor
Columbia
$97,419
per year
Missouri
$85,599
per year
Scientist
Columbia
$71,734
per year
Missouri
$101,495
per year
Research Associate
Columbia
$55,109
per year
Missouri
$62,847
per year
Senior Laboratory Assistant
Columbia
$25.83
per hour
Missouri
$25.57
per hour
Chemist
Columbia
$20.65
per hour
Missouri
$28.17
per hour
Research Specialist
Columbia
$20.12
per hour
Missouri
$25.56
per hour
Environmental Specialist
Columbia
$19.90
per hour
Missouri
$19.48
per hour
Job descriptions below are for educational purposes. Please refer to the employer's job description for complete details.
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Laboratory Supervisor
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
Laboratory supervisors oversee lab operations, ensuring quality and compliance in testing. Key skills for this role include leadership, technical expertise and knowledge of regulatory standards.
Laboratory Supervisor jobs take 76 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 1% of job openings are part-time roles.
See 4 jobsAverage pay
Columbia
$97,419 per yearMissouri
$85,599 per yearSkills
- Laboratory experience
- Product development
- Continuous improvement
- Time management
- Communication skills
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Scientist
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
Scientists conduct research and experiments to develop new knowledge or products. Key skills for this role include analytical thinking, technical expertise and effective communication.
The top companies hiring Scientist in Columbia, MO are Eurofins (4 jobs), Altasciences (4 jobs), and University of Missouri (2 jobs).
Scientist jobs take 24 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 17% of job openings offer remote or hybrid positions and 1% of job openings are part-time roles.
See 9 jobsAverage pay
Columbia
$71,734 per yearMissouri
$101,495 per yearSkills
- Python
- Machine learning
- Analysis skills
- Laboratory experience
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Research Associate
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
Research associates assist in studies by conducting experiments and gathering data. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail and knowledge of research methods are essential in this role.
Research Associate jobs take 65 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 5% of job openings are part-time roles.
See 2 jobsAverage pay
Columbia
$55,109 per yearMissouri
$62,847 per yearSkills
- Research
- English
- Research & development
- Microsoft Excel
- Analysis skills
-
Senior Laboratory Assistant
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
Senior Laboratory Assistants lead lab operations, supporting research and ensuring compliance. Leadership skills, technical expertise, and effective communication are vital.
Senior Laboratory Assistant jobs take 17 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 21% of job openings are part-time roles.
See 2 jobsAverage pay
Columbia
$25.83 per hourMissouri
$25.57 per hour -
Chemist
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
Chemists conduct experiments and research to explore chemical properties and behaviors. Key skills include analytical thinking, attention to detail and proficiency in laboratory techniques.
Chemist jobs take 110 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 5% of job openings are part-time roles.
See 2 jobsAverage pay
Columbia
$20.65 per hourMissouri
$28.17 per hourSkills
- Laboratory experience
- Quality control
- Gas chromatography
- Manufacturing
- ISO 9001
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Research Specialist
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
Research specialists conduct in-depth studies to support organizational goals and advancements. Key skills for this role include analytical thinking, expertise in research methodologies and effective communication.
Research Specialist jobs take 52 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 15% of job openings offer remote or hybrid positions and 3% of job openings are part-time roles.
See 2 jobsAverage pay
Columbia
$20.12 per hourMissouri
$25.56 per hour -
Environmental Specialist
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
Environmental specialists develop and implement programs to protect the environment. Candidates benefit from an expertise in environmental laws, analytical skills and project management experience
Environmental Specialist jobs take 26 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 14% of job openings are part-time roles.
See 2 jobsAverage pay
Columbia
$19.90 per hourMissouri
$19.48 per hour