High-paying science jobs in Des Moines
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 39 science jobs listed below pay well, with salaries between $32,447 and $162,246 per year. Life Science Consultant, Laboratory Assistant and Senior Research Associate are among the most popular high-paying roles in Des Moines, IA.
Job title
Updated Oct 26, 2026Scientist
Des Moines
Iowa
Physicist
Des Moines
Iowa
Life Science Consultant
Des Moines
Iowa
R&D Engineer
Des Moines
Iowa
Meteorologist
Des Moines
Iowa
Senior Research Associate
Des Moines
Iowa
Environmental Specialist
Des Moines
Iowa
Explorer
Des Moines
Iowa
Laboratory Assistant
Des Moines
Iowa
Job descriptions below are for educational purposes. Please refer to the employer's job description for complete details.
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Scientist
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Scientists conduct research and experiments to develop new knowledge or products. Key skills for this role include analytical thinking, technical expertise and effective communication.
Scientist jobs take 26 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 18% of job openings offer remote or hybrid positions and 1% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Des Moines
$162,246 per yearIowa
$113,772 per yearSkills
- Python
- Machine learning
- Analysis skills
- Laboratory experience
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Physicist
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Physicists conduct research to understand physical laws and phenomena, developing theories and applications. Key skills include analytical expertise, problem-solving ability, and proficiency in scientific methods.
Currently, 22% of job openings offer remote or hybrid positions and 12% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Des Moines
$77.84 per hourIowa
$77.84 per hour -
Life Science Consultant
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Life science consultants provide strategic guidance for life science organizations, leveraging their expertise. Key skills for this role include strong analytical skills, industry knowledge and effective communication.
The top companies hiring Life Science Consultant in Des Moines, IA are Accenture (17 jobs), Deloitte (2 jobs), and CBRE (1 job).
Currently, 0% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Des Moines
$138,265 per yearIowa
$138,265 per year -
R&D Engineer
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R&D engineers develop innovative products and solutions through research and testing. Candidates should possess strong technical skills, creativity and knowledge of industry trends.
R&D Engineer jobs take 24 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 10% of job openings offer remote or hybrid positions and 4% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Des Moines
$75,921 per yearIowa
$61,746 per yearSkills
- Software development
- C
- C++
- APIs
- .NET
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Meteorologist
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Meteorologists analyze weather data and provide forecasts, studying atmospheric phenomena. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in meteorological software, and effective communication are essential.
Currently, 14% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Des Moines
$75,456 per yearIowa
$57,471 per year -
Senior Research Associate
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Senior research associates lead research projects, mentor staff and present findings. Candidates typically require strong analytical capabilities, experience in project design and the ability to collaborate across teams.
Senior Research Associate jobs take 11 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 2% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Des Moines
$66,447 per yearIowa
$155,754 per yearSkills
- Research
- English
- Analysis skills
- Laboratory experience
- High-performance liquid chromatography
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Environmental Specialist
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Environmental specialists develop and implement programs to protect the environment. Candidates benefit from an expertise in environmental laws, analytical skills and project management experience
The top companies hiring Environmental Specialist in Des Moines, IA are Trinity Health (1 job), MidAmerican Energy (1 job), and MercyOne (1 job).
Environmental Specialist jobs take 25 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 14% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Des Moines
$25.15 per hourIowa
$18.50 per hour -
Explorer
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Explorers engage in field research to discover new information about ecosystems, cultures, or phenomena. They need adaptability, strong observational skills, and effective communication abilities.
Explorer jobs take 14 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 15% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Des Moines
$692 per weekIowa
$571 per week -
Laboratory Assistant
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Laboratory assistants support research activities by preparing samples and maintaining equipment. They benefit from strong organizational skills, attention to detail and knowledge of lab procedures.
Laboratory Assistant jobs take 51 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 26% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Des Moines
$13.90 per hourIowa
$18.51 per hourSkills
- Laboratory experience
- Quality control
- Analysis skills
- Laboratory information management systems
- Communication skills