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Atmospheric Scientists Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leidos has an exciting opportunity for an Expert Level Exploitation Specialist/Imagery Scientist (SAR) - to join our team in Springfield, VA. Our ideal candidate will be able to : * Conduct applied ...

SAR Imagery Scientist

Springfield, VA · On-site

$112K - $257K/yr

SAR Imagery Scientist Springfield, VA Top Secret/SCI Polygraph Career Level not specified $112,800 - $257,000 The Opportunity: Leverage advanced and specialized physics research expertise to test and ...

Leidos has an exciting opportunity for an Expert Level Exploitation Specialist/Imagery Scientist (SAR) - to join our team in Springfield, VA. Our ideal candidate will be able to : * Conduct applied ...

Position Overview The Imagery Scientist - SAR Middle provides analytical and geospatial support focused on SAR imagery products, multi-INT analysis, and data exploitation. The selected candidate will ...

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How much do atmospheric scientists jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for atmospheric scientists in the United States is $81,521.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do atmospheric scientists make?

Atmospheric scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $99,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions often start lower, while experienced professionals or those in specialized roles can earn significantly more. Many atmospheric scientists work for government agencies, research institutions, or private companies, often requiring a master's degree or higher in atmospheric science or related fields.

Does NASA hire atmospheric scientists?

Yes, NASA hires atmospheric scientists to study Earth's atmosphere, climate, and weather patterns, often requiring expertise in remote sensing, data analysis, and atmospheric modeling. These roles may involve working with satellite data and collaborating with other space and science agencies.

What is the difference between Atmospheric Scientists vs Meteorologists?

AspectAtmospheric ScientistsMeteorologists
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in atmospheric science, meteorology, or related fieldsBachelor's or higher in meteorology or atmospheric science
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesWeather stations, broadcast media, government agencies
Industry UsageResearch, academia, government research projectsWeather forecasting, public communication, media

Atmospheric Scientists and Meteorologists both study the atmosphere, but Atmospheric Scientists focus more 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 weather services. While their credentials overlap, their work environments and industry applications differ.

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

To thrive as an Atmospheric Scientist, you need strong analytical and mathematical skills, a background in physics or meteorology, and at least a bachelor's degree in atmospheric science or a related field (with many roles requiring a master's or Ph.D.). Proficiency with data analysis tools, weather modeling software, and remote sensing systems is typically required, along with familiarity with programming languages like Python or MATLAB. Effective communication, curiosity, and teamwork are important soft skills for presenting research, collaborating on projects, and conveying complex findings to diverse audiences. These skills are essential to accurately analyze atmospheric data, develop reliable forecasts, and contribute valuable insights to scientific and public communities.

Are atmospheric scientists in demand?

Atmospheric scientists are in moderate demand, especially in sectors such as environmental consulting, government agencies, and research institutions. Employment growth is driven by the need for climate research, weather forecasting, and environmental policy development, with a typical requirement for strong analytical skills and proficiency in modeling tools.

What jobs can you get with atmospheric science?

Atmospheric scientists can work in roles such as weather forecasters, climate researchers, environmental consultants, and atmospheric modelers. These jobs often require skills in data analysis, computer modeling, and knowledge of meteorological tools and software. They may be employed by government agencies, research institutions, or private companies focused on weather prediction, climate change, or environmental impact assessments.

What are some typical challenges atmospheric scientists face when working on weather prediction models?

Atmospheric scientists often encounter challenges with the complexity and variability of weather systems when developing and refining prediction models. Accurately representing atmospheric processes requires integrating vast amounts of data from satellites, weather stations, and other sources, which can be computationally intensive. Additionally, collaborating with computer scientists and other specialists is essential to improve model accuracy and efficiency. Staying updated with new technologies and methodologies is also important for success in this role.

What do atmospheric scientists do?

Atmospheric scientists study the weather, climate, and the physics and chemistry of the Earth's atmosphere. They analyze data from satellites, weather stations, and other sources to understand weather patterns and predict changes. Their work helps with forecasting weather, studying climate change, and addressing environmental issues such as air pollution. Atmospheric scientists often use computer models and advanced technology to interpret atmospheric conditions and provide valuable information to governments, businesses, and the public.
More about Atmospheric Scientists jobs
What cities are hiring for Atmospheric Scientists jobs? Cities with the most Atmospheric Scientists job openings:
What states have the most Atmospheric Scientists jobs? States with the most job openings for Atmospheric Scientists jobs include:
Infographic showing various Atmospheric Scientists job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,521 per year, or $39.2 per hour.
Expert Imagery Scientist (SAR)

Expert Imagery Scientist (SAR)

Leidos

Springfield, VA • On-site

$116K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 426 rated business services


Job description

Leidos has an exciting opportunity for an Expert Level Exploitation Specialist/Imagery Scientist (SAR) - to join our team in Springfield, VA.
Our ideal candidate will be able to :
  • Conduct applied image processing and advanced analysis of radar imagery, including both literal image interpretation and non-literal analysis.
  • Support the development of analysis techniques of radar imagery for new signature and methodology development.
  • Collect data and perform data analysis.
  • Perform ad hoc analysis and present results in a clear manner.
  • Communicate complex quantitative analysis in a clear, precise and actionable manner using storytelling/visualization.
  • Create/deploy/maintain automated workflows and processing pipelines
  • Create/deploy/maintain tools to extract features, data, and metadata from a variety of sources.
  • Write/maintain Python scripts to improve efficiency of the production process.
  • Contribute to customer organization mentorship and training on related phenomenology, processing, tools, and tradecraft.
  • Collaborate with external mission partner organizations as needed to support customer mission & analytic goals.

Skills and Experience:
Basic Qualifications
  • Typically requires a BA degree and 8 - 12 years of prior relevant experience or Masters with 6 - 10 years of prior relevant experience.
  • BS in image science, remote sensing, earth science, etc.
  • Expert knowledge & skill processing & exploiting SAR data.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with ability to be approved for a CI Poly

Preferred Qualifications
  • Formal training & experience in remote sensing/earth science/etc.
  • IDL/Java/C++/VB/MATLAB/R/other.
  • APIs.
  • Advanced degree.
  • Proficiency in Google Earth Engine, ESRI ARC Services, Tableau, Web Services Development and ArcGIS.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
April 29, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $116,350.00 - $210,325.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

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Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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