High-paying science jobs in Santa Cruz
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 48 science jobs listed below pay well, with salaries between $97,458 and $178,886 per year. Scientist, R&D Engineer and Researcher are among the most popular high-paying roles in Santa Cruz, CA.
Job title
Updated Nov 11, 2026
Job title
Santa Cruz, CA
California
Job openings (Santa Cruz)
R&D Engineer
Santa Cruz
$178,886
per year
California
$127,654
per year
Researcher
Santa Cruz
$162,449
per year
California
$174,623
per year
Senior R&D Engineer
Santa Cruz
$132,416
per year
California
$153,222
per year
Scientist
Santa Cruz
$125,617
per year
California
$123,778
per year
Environmental Specialist
Santa Cruz
$8,679
per month
California
$9,253
per month
Biologist
Santa Cruz
$32.37
per hour
California
$37.31
per hour
Job descriptions below are for educational purposes. Please refer to the employer's job description for complete details.
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R&D Engineer
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
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, 5% of job openings are part-time roles.
See jobsAverage pay
Santa Cruz
$178,886 per yearCalifornia
$127,654 per yearSkills
- Software development
- C
- C++
- .NET
- C#
-
Researcher
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
Researchers conduct studies to gather and analyze data, contributing to knowledge advancement. Critical thinking, analytical skills and expertise in methodology are essential for success in this role.
Researcher jobs take 78 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 24% of job openings offer remote or hybrid positions and 14% of job openings are part-time roles.
See jobsAverage pay
Santa Cruz
$162,449 per yearCalifornia
$174,623 per yearSkills
- Analysis skills
- Microsoft Excel
- English
- Microsoft Office
- Research & development
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Senior R&D Engineer
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
Senior R&D Engineers design and develop innovative solutions, driving technical advancements. Key skills include strong problem-solving abilities, technical expertise, and familiarity with project management.
Senior R&D Engineer jobs take 48 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 19% of job openings offer remote or hybrid positions and 1% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Santa Cruz
$132,416 per yearCalifornia
$153,222 per yearSkills
- Agile
- REST
- APIs
- JavaScript
- Continuous integration
-
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.
Scientist jobs take 26 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 2% of job openings are part-time roles.
See jobsAverage pay
Santa Cruz
$125,617 per yearCalifornia
$123,778 per yearSkills
- Python
- Machine learning
- Analysis skills
- Laboratory experience
-
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, 15% of job openings are part-time roles.
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Santa Cruz
$8,679 per monthCalifornia
$9,253 per month -
Biologist
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Please refer to the employers job description for complete details.
Biologists study living organisms and ecosystems, contributing valuable insights. Key skills include analytical thinking, field research techniques, and knowledge of biological principles.
Biologist jobs take 26 days on average from job posting to starting date. Currently, 18% of job openings offer remote or hybrid positions and 24% of job openings are part-time roles.
See jobsAverage pay
Santa Cruz
$32.37 per hourCalifornia
$37.31 per hour