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Climate Change Research Assistant Jobs in Colorado

Research Assistant

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$40K - $42K/yr

Research Assistant Department: Executive Office Employment Type: Full Time Location: Denver, CO ... It's time to change our thinking and ask big questions, like: * Why do we still treat economic ...

Research Assistant

Grand Junction, CO ยท On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

We recognize that change is constant, and our resilience allows us to embrace it with confidence ... The assistant will participate in the entire research workflow, from literature review and data ...

Principal Consultant

Denver, CO ยท On-site +1

$139K - $185K/yr

Contribute to internal research and development of new analytical capabilities. * Mentor and assist ... Minimum 10 years of experience in climate change resilience, consulting services, data analytics ...

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Climate Change Research Assistant information

See Colorado salary details

$9

$25

$56

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for climate change research assistant in Colorado is $25.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.07 and $28.29 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.
What are popular job titles related to Climate Change Research Assistant jobs in Colorado? For Climate Change Research Assistant jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Climate Change Research Assistant jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Climate Change Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Climate Change Research Assistant job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,244 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

$40K - $42K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Research Assistant
Department: Executive Office
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Denver, CO
Compensation: $40,250 - $42,750 / year
Description
The Public Interest Network is hiring a Research Assistant who will work closely with leadership staff to develop our in-house "think tank," which is dedicated to re-orienting America's political and cultural conversation.
According to a 2020 study in Nature, the combined mass of man-made things now outweighs all life on Earth. We already produce more food than we can eat and more clothes than we can wear. And our continued pursuit of limitless economic growth and job creation has profound consequences, amongst them: the pollution of our environment, the use of toxic chemicals in products - even toys - on store shelves, and a fanatical commitment to keeping people in jobs even if those jobs are dangerous or soul-crushing or unnecessary.
It's time to change our thinking and ask big questions, like:
  • Why do we still treat economic growth as synonymous with progress, even as its costs overwhelm its benefits?
  • What if the real challenge of automation is not job loss, but our inability to imagine a good life beyond traditional employment?

Key Responsibilities
The research assistant will provide support to the think tank team and participate in archiving, research, writing, analysis, communications, and other efforts to further our mission. This position requires excellent judgment, discretion and the ability to oversee significant projects. Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
  • Identifying and archiving useful resources for writing and research projects.
  • Reviewing and drawing conclusions from research and literature across multiple fields including environmental science, public health, history, and economics.
  • Assigning, writing and/or promoting reports, reviews, articles and papers.
  • Assisting with the development of new media strategies including using social media platforms, podcasts, and other sources to disseminate our research and ideas.
  • Attending relevant conferences or retreats with internal staff or external professionals.
  • Potential additional projects such as helping to curate a monthly publication or managing an intern program.

Qualifications
  • You're interested in solving new problems. You have a strong affinity for our vision of a new politics that faces today's challenges head on.
  • You're open-minded. You can get your head around complex issues, are willing to have open dialogue about problems, and are okay working with people whose viewpoints may differ.
  • You're smart, detail-oriented, and organized. You can manage multiple projects.
  • You can write. You may have experience writing for publications - at a campus newspaper, writing newsletters and emails for a group you volunteer with, or similar relevant experience.
  • You're creative. You're able to anticipate or define a problem, brainstorm solutions, propose or decide on a course of action, and follow through. You can think on your feet and respond to unexpected challenges with confidence.
  • You're accountable. You respect goals and deadlines.
  • You're ready to put in the hard work to start from scratch with just an idea and help turn it into a lasting institution.

Ideal candidates will have 1-3 years of experience, but entry-level candidates with a passion for our issues, mission, and values are encouraged to apply.
Benefits
Compensation and Benefits
The starting target annual compensation for this position is $40,250-$42,750. The Public Interest Network offers an excellent benefits package. Our benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents, time off, a commuter benefit program, a 401(k) plan with employer match, parental leave, long term disability insurance, and may include needs-based student loan assistance. We also offer an excellent training program and opportunities for advancement.
Location
Denver, CO
Why work with The Public Interest Network? Check out ten reasons: https://publicinterestnetwork.org/why-work-with-us/.
Our Mission and Values
The Public Interest Network operates and supports organizations committed to a shared vision of a better world and a strategic approach to social change. Visit https://publicinterestnetwork.org/core-values for things you should know about our network when you apply. Within the first document you will find a link to a second; please read both carefully.
Please do not use AI to help draft your cover letter or responses to our application questions. We want to know how you think and write.
Fund for the Public Interest is an equal opportunity employer.