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Atmospheric Modeling Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Computational Physics, Inc.

Scientist-Research

IL · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Background We seek an early-to-mid career scientist to join a team at CPI and NRL developing whole-atmosphere versions of Navy weather prediction models extending from the surface to 500 km altitude.

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Atmospheric Modeling information

See Illinois salary details

$25.4K

$82.2K

$160.6K

How much do atmospheric modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for atmospheric modeling in Illinois is $82,154.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,842.00 and $104,420.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is atmospheric modeling?

Atmospheric modeling is the use of computer-based mathematical models to simulate and predict the behavior of the Earth's atmosphere. These models help scientists understand weather patterns, climate change, air pollution, and other atmospheric phenomena. Atmospheric modeling is essential for making weather forecasts, studying long-term climate trends, and assessing environmental impacts. The field combines physics, chemistry, and data analysis to create simulations that can be used by researchers, meteorologists, and policymakers.

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, often supported by an advanced degree in meteorology or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or Fortran, experience using atmospheric modeling software (such as WRF or GCMs), and proficiency in data analysis tools are typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for interpreting model results and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate forecasts, advancing scientific understanding, and informing policy or operational decisions based on atmospheric data.

What are the main challenges atmospheric modelers face when integrating new data sources into existing models?

Atmospheric modelers often encounter challenges when incorporating new data sources, such as ensuring data quality, consistency, and compatibility with existing model frameworks. Integrating data from various sensors or satellites may require preprocessing to address differences in resolution, timing, or measurement techniques. Additionally, updating models with new data can impact computational efficiency and require recalibration or validation to maintain accuracy. Close collaboration with data scientists and other researchers is common to streamline this process and ensure robust model performance.

What is the difference between Atmospheric Modeling vs Meteorologist?

AspectAtmospheric ModelingMeteorologist
Required CredentialsDegree in atmospheric sciences, meteorology, or related field; often requires programming skillsDegree in meteorology, atmospheric sciences, or related; may include certification or licensing
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government agencies, or academic institutions; focus on simulations and data analysisWeather stations, media, government agencies; focus on weather forecasting and communication
Industry UsageUsed for climate modeling, weather prediction, and environmental researchUsed for daily weather forecasts, severe weather alerts, and public information

While both roles involve understanding atmospheric phenomena, atmospheric modeling focuses on creating simulations and predictive models using computer algorithms, whereas meteorologists interpret weather data to provide forecasts and public advisories. Both careers require a strong background in atmospheric sciences, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

Do atmospheric modeling scientists make good money?

Atmospheric modeling scientists typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start around $60,000 annually, while experienced professionals can earn over $100,000, especially with advanced skills in programming and data analysis. The field often requires a strong background in atmospheric sciences, computer modeling, and relevant certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Atmospheric Modeling jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Atmospheric Modeling jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Atmospheric Modeling jobs in Illinois?

For Atmospheric Modeling jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Atmospheric Modeling jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Atmospheric Modeling jobs in Illinois are:

Atmospheric Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Atmospheric Modeling job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,154 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

Scientist-Research

Computational Physics, Inc.

Glen Ellyn, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Run and analyze whole-atmosphere models on high-performance computing centers to support weather prediction research.

  • Identify, debug, and implement code changes to improve the model's capabilities, skill, resiliency, and efficiency.

  • Collaborate with the team to integrate new code into the repository and contribute to achieving research deliverables.

Job description

Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for a Full-Time Scientist-Research to support our customers remotely at NRL. 

Background

We seek an early-to-mid career scientist to join a team at CPI and NRL developing whole-atmosphere versions of Navy weather prediction models extending from the surface to 500 km altitude. The candidate will run these emerging new models on Navy high-performance computing centers (HPCs), will analyze the model output, and will use the resulting insights to target changes or additions to the collective code base that continuously improve the evolving model's skill, resiliency and efficiency. The candidate will work and collaborate across the broader team in continuous integration of new code into the head of the repository via an enterprise GitHub server, by identifying bugs in the code, devising, testing and submitting appropriate bug fixes, and by writing and testing new code that delivers new or improved model capabilities. In so doing, the candidate will work with the broader team in achieving timely quarterly and annual research deliverables for NRL and downstream sponsors.

Qualifications

  • A Bachelors or higher degree in atmospheric science, computational fluid dynamics, physics, applied mathematics, meteorology, aeronomy, or a related discipline.
  • Demonstrated skill with high-level programming languages (e.g., MPI Fortran, C++, Java) and visualization/analysis software such as Python, IDL or MATLAB. Skills and experience with codes written in Fortran 2003 and higher in particular is most immediately applicable to this work.
  • Knowledge of or interest in code development and scientific application of state-of-the-art physics-based atmospheric models, particularly those extending deep into the upper atmospheres, including a demonstrated interest and aptitude in running, debugging and augmenting such codes on multiprocessor HPC architectures.
  • Scientific knowledge of the dynamics, physics and chemical processes occurring in the uppermost layers of the neutral atmosphere, particularly above 80 km altitude.
  • An ability and willingness to work within a geographically dispersed multidisciplinary team environment in achieving collective goals and assigned milestones.
  • Good writing and oral communication skills in regularly conveying research progress clearly to the broader team over GitHub and in regular weekly team meetings.
  • Experience or interest in running multiprocessor code on massively parallel HPCs.
  • Experience working with large atmospheric data sets generated by models (e.g., HDF5)

U.S. citizenship is required for DoD contracts.

About CPI

We love science! We study the physical properties of the Earth and our atmosphere, neighboring planets, and the sun. We make the study of science practical by translating our findings into products, both hardware and software, that make our customer's lives easier and better. CPI has served various U.S. Government agencies, universities, international science organizations, prime contractors, as well as commercial customers for 40 years.

CPI is an employee-owned company -- our team members receive company stock. Employee ownership motivates and empowers increased productivity, contribution to the longevity of the business, improved retention, and enhanced employee engagement.

Why Work for Us?

  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
  • Positive, upbeat, and transparent company culture with opportunities for self-development and career advancement
  • Employee-owned small business that allows team members to learn from each other and take ownership
  • Professional development support including conference attendance and certification training

To apply please visit our careers page.

CPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

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