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Climate Change Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wayne State University

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$42K/yr

Research Assistant Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its ... Support community-based climate change hazard mitigation effort, including preparation of materials ...

LHB

Climate Solutions Research Assistant

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$57K - $71K/yr

Unique among design firms, LHB includes a group of architects, engineers, and researchers dedicated to identifying and implementing climate solutions to shape the future of our built environment. We ...

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How much do climate change research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for climate change research assistant in the United States is $27.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Climate Change Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Climate Change Research Assistant, you need a solid background in environmental science, data analysis, and research methodologies, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Experience with statistical software (such as R or Python), GIS tools, and familiarity with climate data sets is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication skills are essential for interpreting findings and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are important to ensure accurate research, meaningful data interpretation, and effective communication of climate change impacts and solutions.

What does a Climate Change Research Assistant do?

A Climate Change Research Assistant supports scientists and researchers by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data related to climate change. Their responsibilities may include conducting fieldwork, managing environmental sensors, compiling research reports, and assisting with experiments or modeling climate scenarios. They often work in academic, governmental, or environmental organizations and contribute to studies on topics like greenhouse gas emissions, climate policy, and adaptation strategies. This role is essential in helping researchers understand the impacts of climate change and develop solutions.

What is the difference between Climate Change Research Assistant vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectClimate Change Research AssistantEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, climate studies, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in environmental science, ecology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, academic institutionsResearch facilities, government agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, NGOsGovernment agencies, environmental consulting firms, NGOs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve environmental research, Climate Change Research Assistants focus specifically on climate-related projects, often supporting data collection and analysis. Environmental Scientists have broader responsibilities, including assessing environmental impacts and developing solutions. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but differ in scope and specialization.

What types of projects do Climate Change Research Assistants typically work on, and how do they contribute to the research team?

Climate Change Research Assistants often support projects involving data collection, analysis of climate models, fieldwork, and literature reviews. They play a vital role in gathering and organizing data, preparing reports, and sometimes contributing to scientific publications. These assistants frequently collaborate with scientists and policy experts, attend team meetings, and help present findings. The work environment is typically dynamic, with opportunities to develop technical and analytical skills while making meaningful contributions to climate science.
More about Climate Change Research Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Climate Change Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Climate Change Research Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Climate Change Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Climate Change Research Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Climate Change Research Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Climate Change Research Assistant jobs are:
Climate Change Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climate Change Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,562 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Research Assistant

Research Assistant

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$42K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

242nd of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Research Assistant
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
POSITION DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Supervise team during field service, including providing transportation to and from the field, providing task guidance, ensuring safety policies are adhered to, and acting as main point of communication between Program Director and field teams.
  • Schedule, organize, and lead home-based interventions, including the installation of rain barrels, rain gardens, and community gardens across targeted neighborhoods.
  • Administer resident surveys to assess perceptions, needs, and impacts related to climate adaptation and urban environmental health.
  • Deliver public education via canvassing and outreach presentations to residents on climate change, green infrastructure, and healthy home practices.
  • Set up passive air sample badges to test for indoor air pollutants, review results with participating residents and identify possible sources of pollutants within the home.
  • Install and maintain indoor and outdoor air monitors, air purifiers, and dehumidifiers.
  • Collect, manage, and analyze data from fieldwork and community engagement to inform ongoing evaluation and reporting.
  • Support community-based climate change hazard mitigation effort, including preparation of materials for community distribution.
  • Recruit members of the community to serve with AmeriCorps READY through outreach via online and in-person efforts, including: posting on job boards; service-oriented volunteer recruitment spaces; and local venues to be identified.
    Attend career fairs on behalf of AmeriCorps READY.
  • Communicate reliably, clearly, and effectively with project team members and community partners.
  • Provide regular progress updates to Center leadership.
  • Perform other duties as deemed necessary to support program goals.

Unique duties:
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • A Bachelor's degree (or working towards a degree) is preferred.
  • Experience working within Detroit neighborhoods or similar communities.
  • Comfortable with hands-on installation and fieldwork, including lifting 50 pounds and other physical demands such as standing, bending, lifting, and pulling.
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Access to consistent and reliable transportation; willingness to use personal vehicle to transport team members and supplies highly preferred. Mileage reimbursement provided.
  • Working knowledge of climate change and urban impacts of climate change preferred.
  • Background in environmental science, biological science, environmental stewardship, green infrastructure, ecology, the climate crisis, or ecological awareness is preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and Google products (Drive, Sheets, Docs, Forms, Calendar, etc.).
  • Must be confident communicating through virtual channels with team members and others.
  • Must be self-motivated and able to initiate and complete tasks independently; strong organizational and problem-resolution skills; detail-oriented.
  • Ability to prioritize and plan work activities while meeting respective deadlines.
    Interest in climate change, environmental sciences, ecological stewardship, and environmental justice strongly preferred.

Submissions mustinclude a cover letter describing relevant experience, an updated resume andmost recent transcript(unofficial),and recent writing samples.
Preferred qualifications:
School/College/Division:
Generic Division
Primary department:
H6614 - Center Urban Studies
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full or Fractional Time
  • Job category: Research
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Annual Salary
  • Hourly rate:
  • Salary minimum: $42,000
  • Salary hire maximum: $50,000
Working conditions:
In-Person
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 2
  • Reposted position: No
  • Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
  • Prior posting/requisition number:
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

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