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How much do atmosphere modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for atmosphere modeling in Virginia is $39.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.96 and $43.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an atmosphere modeling professional?

Atmosphere Modeling professionals often spend their days developing, running, and validating computer simulations to predict weather patterns, air quality, or climate trends. Daily tasks may include gathering and preprocessing meteorological data, troubleshooting model outputs, writing code to refine model components, and collaborating with colleagues across meteorology, data science, and environmental policy teams. They also frequently summarize results for reports or presentations and contribute to research papers or grant proposals. This role involves a mix of independent analysis and teamwork, providing a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment.

What is an atmosphere modeling job?

An Atmosphere Modeling job involves developing and using computer models to simulate and predict atmospheric conditions, such as weather patterns, climate change, and air quality. Professionals in this field analyze atmospheric data, improve forecasting techniques, and contribute to environmental research and policy-making. They often work in meteorology, climate science, aerospace, or environmental consulting, using mathematical and physical principles to understand atmospheric dynamics.

How to become an atmosphere model?

To become an atmosphere model, typically a bachelor's degree in atmospheric science, meteorology, environmental science, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with climate and weather modeling software, programming skills in languages like Python or Fortran, and understanding of atmospheric physics are essential; advanced roles may require a master's or Ph.D. in a relevant discipline.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in atmosphere modeling?

To excel in Atmosphere Modeling, you typically need a solid background in atmospheric science, meteorology, physics, or a related field, often supported by advanced degrees. Proficiency in numerical modeling software, programming languages (such as Python, Fortran, or MATLAB), and experience with data assimilation systems or high-performance computing are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and collaborative abilities help professionals address complex problems and communicate findings effectively. These skills are vital for generating accurate atmospheric simulations, informing research or policy, and contributing to multidisciplinary teams.

What are popular job titles related to Atmosphere Modeling jobs in Virginia?

For Atmosphere Modeling jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Atmosphere Modeling jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Atmosphere Modeling jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Atmosphere Modeling jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Atmosphere Modeling job openings:

Atmosphere Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Atmosphere Modeling job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,176 per year, or $40 per hour.

Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Waypoint Human Capital

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Modeling & Simulation Engineer
Position Type: Full-time; Onsite
Position Location: Chantilly, VA
Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI CI Poly
Waypoint’s client is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Modeling & Simulation Engineer to join their team supporting a critical government client. This position offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects within the aerospace domain.
Responsibilities:
  • Define modeling requirements from user needs and system architecture and develop scripts to automate scenario modeling and performance analysis.
  • Develop models of the end-to-end phenomenology chain, including generating complex EO/IR target signatures (BRDF, thermal), modeling atmospheric radiative transfer using tools like MODTRAN, and integrating realistic cloud clutter and terrain backgrounds.
  • Oversee mission-level simulation to assess ISR constellation performance.
  • Conduct trade studies on future ISR constellations.
  • Assess the resilience of specificized ISR architecture; model the space environment's impact on payload performance, including radiation effects on focal plane arrays, and analyze the vulnerability of established PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing) systems to RF interference.
  • Utilize Python for model development, data analysis, and simulation execution.
  • Leverage AFSIM (or similar aerospace simulation software) for analysis and performance prediction.
  • Incorporate phenomenological modeling principles into relevant models and simulations.

Required Qualifications:
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with Poly.
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in modeling and simulation, preferably within the aerospace industry.
  • Strong proficiency in Python programming.
  • Familiarity with AFSIM or similar aerospace simulation tools.
  • Solid understanding of orbital mechanics and space systems.
  • Experience with phenomenological models, including a demonstrated ability to model relevant physical phenomena and validate those models.
  • Experience modeling solar illumination effects, thermal emissions, Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) for material identification, and temperature dynamics of a target.
  • Experience modeling Radar Cross Section (RCS) for various frequencies and polarizations, and the signatures of active RF emitters.
  • Experience with atmospheric models (like MODTRAN or LibRadtran) to simulate absorption, scattering, turbulence (seeing effects), and path radiance.
  • Experience generating realistic backgrounds, including Earth limb radiance, cloud clutter models, terrain-specific thermal and optical properties, and celestial backgrounds (stars, zodiacal light).
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • Experience with other simulation tools and programming languages.
  • Experience with non-cooperative target tracking.
  • Experience with collection & revisit modeling.
  • Experience modeling the dynamics of rapid slewing and settling of the spacecraft bus and pointing systems.
  • Demonstrated experience modeling the end-to-end Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) chain.
  • Knowledge of cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure).

*Waypoint Human Capital is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.