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Atmospheric Science Lidar information

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$24.5K

$48.4K

$79K

How much do atmospheric science lidar jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for atmospheric science lidar in the United States is $48,391.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Atmospheric Science Lidar Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Atmospheric Science Lidar Specialist, you typically need a background in atmospheric science, physics, or engineering, often with an advanced degree, and a solid understanding of lidar principles and remote sensing. Proficiency in lidar data processing software, programming languages like Python or MATLAB, and familiarity with geospatial analysis tools are essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are key soft skills that set successful specialists apart. These skills and qualities are vital for accurately collecting, analyzing, and interpreting atmospheric data to advance research and inform environmental decisions.

What is the difference between Atmospheric Science Lidar vs Atmospheric Scientist?

AspectAtmospheric Science LidarAtmospheric Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in atmospheric science, physics, or related field; specialized training in lidar technologyRequires a degree in atmospheric science, meteorology, or related field; often includes research experience
Work EnvironmentField deployments, laboratories, data analysis centersResearch institutions, government agencies, universities
Industry UsageUsed for remote sensing, atmospheric measurements, climate researchConducts atmospheric research, data interpretation, modeling

While Atmospheric Science Lidar focuses on operating and maintaining lidar systems for atmospheric measurements, Atmospheric Scientists conduct broader research and analysis of atmospheric phenomena. Both roles require a background in atmospheric sciences, but lidar specialists have technical expertise in lidar technology, whereas atmospheric scientists often engage in data interpretation and modeling.

What is atmospheric science lidar?

Atmospheric science lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) is a remote sensing technology used to measure various properties of the atmosphere, such as aerosol concentrations, cloud heights, and wind profiles. By emitting laser pulses into the atmosphere and analyzing the light that is scattered back, lidar systems provide high-resolution, real-time data about atmospheric conditions. This technology is essential for weather forecasting, climate research, and air quality monitoring. Atmospheric science lidar can be ground-based, airborne, or even satellite-mounted, making it a versatile tool for environmental studies.

What are the typical collaborative projects for an Atmospheric Science Lidar specialist, and how do they contribute to research outcomes?

Atmospheric Science Lidar specialists often work closely with meteorologists, remote sensing experts, and data analysts on multidisciplinary projects. These collaborations can include designing field campaigns, analyzing atmospheric composition, or improving climate models using lidar-derived measurements. Working in teams enhances data validation, broadens the interpretation of results, and accelerates scientific discovery. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as lidar data often supports larger research initiatives or policy-making efforts in environmental monitoring.
Infographic showing various Atmospheric Science Lidar job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, and 70% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,391 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Lidar Research Scientist

Lidar Research Scientist

Analytical Mechanics Associates

Hampton, VA • On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA), as part of the Research, Science, and Engineering Services (RSES) contract, seeks a highly experienced Senior Research Scientist specializing in satellite lidar remote sensing of the atmosphere. This role supports the NASA Falcon-Lidar Project, a fast-track mission concept focused on advancing understanding of atmospheric aerosols and clouds to improve both weather and air-quality predictions. The Falcon-Lidar mission features a dual-wavelength, polarization-sensitive elastic backscatter lidar, jointly developed by NASA GSFC and LaRC, with an anticipated launch in 2029 and two years of on-orbit operations.

The salary range for this position is $125,000-$150,000 commensurate with education and experience.

Key Responsibilities:

Algorithm Development & Calibration
  • Lead development, implementation, testing, documentation (ATBD), and validation of:

    • Level 1 532 nm attenuated backscatter calibration algorithms

    • Level 1 532 nm depolarization calibration algorithms

  • Support design, development, testing, documentation (ATBD), and validation of:

    • Level 2 aerosol and cloud extinction retrieval algorithms

    • Level 2 feature detection and classification algorithms for the Falcon-Lidar mission

Mission & Systems Support
  • :Support Mission and Ground Segment Operations Concept design for spaceborne lidar systems.

  • Participate in and contribute to:

    • Mission-level reviews

    • Technical meetings

    • Documentation deliverables

Collaboration & Communication

  • Work closely within a highly interactive, multidisciplinary team.

  • Present research results at scientific meetings and conferences.

  • Travel occasionally to domestic and international venues.

The salary range for this position is $110,000-$130,000 commensurate with education and relevant experience.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • MS or PhD in Physics, Atmospheric Sciences, Meteorology, or related physical sciences.

  • 10+ years of professional experience in:

    • Development and validation of aerosol/cloud retrieval algorithms from spaceborne lidar

    • Scientific analysis of lidar measurements (peer-reviewed publication record required)

    • Lidar calibration techniques, algorithm development, and data product validation

  • Extensive experience with CALIPSO, ALICAT, and EarthCARE lidar data products (highly desired).

  • Deep understanding of operational ground data processing systems for spaceborne lidar missions.

  • Proficiency in scientific programming using Python, MATLAB, or similar languages.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.

  • U.S. Person status required.

Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is proud of our customer relationships, our diverse and dynamic work environment, and our employees' career satisfaction. AMA is a small business with a wide reach; headquartered in Hampton, VA, AMA has operations in Greenbelt, MD; Huntsville, AL; Dallas and Houston, TX; Denver, CO; Mountain View, CA; and Edwards Air Force Base, CA. With over 60 years of experience, AMA specializes in aerospace engineering, science, analytics, information technology, and visualization solutions. AMA combines the best of engineering, science, and mathematics capabilities with the latest in information technologies, visualization, and multimedia to build creative solutions. We offer competitive salaries and a substantial benefits package, including but not limited to paid personal and federally recognized holiday leave, salary deferrals into a 401(k)-matching plan with immediate vesting, tuition reimbursement, short/long term disability plans, and a variety of medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
AMA is committed to the professional growth of every employee, understanding that the successes of our employees drive our success. We provide a work environment that is engaging, collaborative, and supportive. To learn more about our company, please visit our website at www.ama-inc.com/careers and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

AMA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state, or local laws.

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