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Atmosphere Model Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

George Mason University

Research Scientist

Fairfax, VA · On-site

The Research Scientist will also conduct the developmental and testing work for the atmospheric composition models. Responsibilities: Leads Research in Air Quality Forecasting and Modeling * Designs ...

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Atmosphere Model information

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$11

$35

$75

How much do atmosphere model jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for atmosphere model in Washington is $35.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.49 and $44.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an atmosphere model?

An atmosphere model is a mathematical or computational representation of the Earth's atmosphere, used to simulate and predict atmospheric processes such as weather, climate, and air quality. These models use physics, chemistry, and data from observations to describe how air moves, how clouds form, and how energy is transferred within the atmosphere. Scientists and meteorologists rely on atmosphere models to forecast weather, study climate change, and assess environmental impacts. There are different types of models, ranging from simple to highly complex, depending on the purpose and scale of the study.

What are some common challenges faced by atmospheric modelers and how can they be addressed?

Atmospheric modelers often encounter challenges such as handling large datasets, integrating diverse sources of environmental data, and ensuring the accuracy of simulations. They must also stay current with evolving modeling software and computational techniques. Collaborating closely with meteorologists, climate scientists, and data analysts can help address these challenges by sharing expertise and refining models. Continuous professional development and participating in interdisciplinary research projects also support overcoming technical and scientific hurdles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an atmospheric modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Atmospheric Modeler, you need a strong background in atmospheric science, mathematics, and computer programming, usually supported by a degree in meteorology, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with modeling software like WRF or CMAQ, programming languages such as Python or Fortran, and experience working with climate data sets are typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting results and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities are vital for producing accurate atmospheric predictions and informing decisions related to weather forecasting, climate research, and environmental policy.

What is the difference between Atmosphere Model vs Atmospheric Scientist?

AspectAtmosphere ModelAtmospheric Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in atmospheric science, meteorology, or related fields; familiarity with modeling softwareRequires a degree in atmospheric science, meteorology, or related fields; often includes research experience
Work EnvironmentPrimarily involves working with computer models, simulations, and data analysis in research or government labsConducts fieldwork, data collection, and analysis; may work in labs, offices, or outdoors
Industry UsageUsed by climate research centers, weather agencies, and environmental organizations for forecasting and climate modelingEmployed by research institutions, government agencies, and universities for studying atmospheric phenomena

While an Atmosphere Model focuses on developing and running simulations of atmospheric processes, an Atmospheric Scientist conducts research, data collection, and analysis to understand weather and climate patterns. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Atmosphere Model jobs in Washington? For Atmosphere Model jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Atmosphere Model jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Atmosphere Model jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Atmosphere Model jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Atmosphere Model job openings:
Atmosphere Model jobs near you
Infographic showing various Atmosphere Model job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, and 53% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,897 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Thermal and EO/IR Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you looking for a unique opportunity to impact significant advances to the nation's groundbreaking integrated air and missile defense (IAMD) systems?
Are you an engineer driven to expand your skills in order to solve both current and emerging needs of the Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC)?
Would you like to join a team of skilled engineers and scientists to advance thermal and Electro-Optical (EO)/Infrared (IR) modeling and simulation capabilities?
If so, then we are looking for someone like you to join the Thermal and Aerospace Engineering group at APL!
We are seeking a creative, driven, and motivated engineer to join our dynamic group which provides outstanding engineering services and products. You'll be joining a hardworking team of people who strive to address broad challenges for programs of national importance. As a member of our team you will collaborate, contribute, and innovate to further our capabilities against rapid proliferation of adversarial systems.
As a Thermal and EO/IR Modeling and Simulation Engineer, you will...
  • Develop physics-based thermal models of missiles, rocket motor plumes, air platforms, and other relevant systems to support multiple programs, including IAMD.
  • Integrate thermal results with optical characteristics using cutting-edge modeling and simulation toolkits to predict EO/IR signatures of various systems in exo- and endo-atmospheric environments, including coupling with relevant background scenes.
  • Interact with various domain authorities to grow your knowledge base related to overall weapon systems, and apply that knowledge to improve analysis methodologies.
  • Collaborate with senior developers to improve existing code suites, with the goal of maintaining our teams status as a leading authority in the EO/IR signature community.
  • Compare predictions with wind tunnel, laboratory, flight test data, and literature.
  • Work both independently and as part of a team to craft exploratory studies to characterize the impacts of specific phenomena on various weapon systems' performance.
  • Document and present findings to government agencies and sponsors.

Qualifications
You'll meet the qualifications for the job if you have...
  • A Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Aerospace engineering (or a related field) combined with 5+ years of experience, or a Master's degree in Mechanical/Aerospace engineering (or a related field) combined with 3+ years of experience
  • Relevant professional experience in physics-based modeling and simulation in one of the following areas: heat transfer, radiation transport, aerothermodynamics, infrared signatures
  • Experience with programming/coding/scripting using tools such as Python, MATLAB, C++, or Shell
  • Preferred experience using Linux based computing environments
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • A history of meaningful contributions to multidisciplinary teams on a variety of engineering problems
  • The ability to acquire an Interim Secret security clearance prior to your start date, and ultimately obtain a final Secret security clearance. If selected for the position, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation, and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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