1

Atmospheric Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Expert SAR Imagery Scientist to join our team in Springfield, VA . This is a full-time onsite position. Responsibilities include but are not ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented SAR Imagery Scientist to join our team in Springfield, VA . This is a full-time onsite position. Responsibilities include but are not limited ...

Showing results 21-40

Atmospheric Scientist information

See salary details

$83K

$110.7K

$137K

How much do atmospheric scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for atmospheric scientist in the United States is $110,694.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an atmospheric scientist do?

Atmospheric scientists study the weather to predict short-term and long-term patterns. Some, like meteorologists, may work to forecast the weather over a few of days. Others spend research years of data to create models to learn about weather conditions in the past, or model future climate conditions based on pollution, historical temperatures, precipitation records, and observational tools from space. They report their findings in conferences, professional journals, or research papers. Qualifications for the job include a bachelor’s degree, although many research positions require a master’s degree or doctorate.

What is the difference between Atmospheric Scientist vs Meteorologist?

AspectAtmospheric ScientistMeteorologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in atmospheric science, meteorology, or related field; often advanced degreesBachelor's or higher in meteorology or atmospheric science; certifications like AMS are common
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agencies, field researchWeather stations, TV stations, government agencies, forecasting centers
Industry UsageResearch, academia, government research projectsWeather forecasting, media, public safety

Atmospheric Scientists focus on research and understanding atmospheric processes, often working in labs or academia. Meteorologists primarily forecast weather and communicate it to the public, working in media or forecasting centers. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but their work environments and primary objectives differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an atmospheric scientist?

To thrive as an Atmospheric Scientist, you need a solid background in meteorology, mathematics, and physics, typically supported by a relevant degree such as atmospheric science or environmental science. Familiarity with data analysis software, remote sensing tools, and climate modeling systems like Python, MATLAB, and GIS is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These abilities are crucial for accurately interpreting complex data and conveying findings to inform public policy, research, and industry decisions.

What are some typical collaborations an atmospheric scientist can expect in their daily work?

Atmospheric Scientists often collaborate with a diverse range of professionals, including meteorologists, climatologists, environmental engineers, and data analysts. These collaborations are essential for interpreting complex climate data, developing predictive weather models, and assessing environmental impacts. Teamwork is especially important during research projects, field studies, or when providing expert input for public policy or environmental planning. Effective communication and interdisciplinary cooperation are key to the role, as many projects rely on integrating findings from multiple scientific fields.

What is an atmospheric scientist?

Atmospheric scientists are professionals who study the Earth's atmosphere and how it affects weather, climate, and the environment. They analyze data from satellites, weather stations, and computer models to forecast weather, understand climate change, and research air quality. Atmospheric scientists work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, research institutions, and private industry, often contributing to public safety and environmental policy. Their work helps society prepare for and respond to weather-related events and long-term climate trends.
What cities are hiring for Atmospheric Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Atmospheric Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Atmospheric Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Atmospheric Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Atmospheric Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Atmospheric Scientist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Atmospheric Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,694 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Imagery Scientist (EO) - Mid Level

GRVTY

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

What Impact You'll Have

GRVTY is seeking a motivated and experienced imagery scientist to provide analytical and geospatial support focused on EO imagery products. The ideal candidate has experience making recommendations that improve data curation and development in support of Machine Learning algorithm testing and evaluation.

What You'll be Owning

  • Leveraging multi-INT data, with an emphasis on SAR, to curate imagery from the emergent sensors. Curated imagery will be prioritized for creation of labeled data to support the model evaluation and accreditation. Curated Imagery should have objects of interest or needed characteristics 
  • Based on the characteristics and limitations of the emergent sensor, recommend curation strategies and identify data gaps to develop a diverse, representative dataset for Machine Learning model evaluation

What You Must Have

  • Active TS/SCI Clearance with the ability to obtain a CI/Poly
  • Experience with Electro-optical imagery analytical products and conducting multi-INT analysis
  • Utilize structured, unstructured, and semi-structured data and visualization tools to exploit data through use of programming and scripting, including advanced geospatial skills and an excellent understanding of how to apply evolving technology and methodologies to related issues

What Would be Nice to Have

  • Experience working with or developing Machine Learning algorithms for exploiting overhead imagery and/or motion imagery products