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Climate Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Patch

Embedded Climate Strategist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$175K - $230K/yr

... with science-based targets (SBTs) and net-zero commitments. * Carbon Market Strategy: Advise ... Climate Claims & Reporting: Help businesses navigate climate-related claims, disclosures, and ...

Slalom Consulting

General Information

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$58 - $88/hr

In this role, you will apply advanced data science, modeling, and machine learning techniques to analyze climate and weather data, helping the utility better understand and prepare for climate and ...

Multiplier

Managing Editor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Plan editorial calendar, make assignments for stories and data visualizations, and manage production of features, blogs, graphics, and data visualizations about Earth and climate science for the ...

Multiplier

Managing Editor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Plan editorial calendar, make assignments for stories and data visualizations, and manage production of features, blogs, graphics, and data visualizations about Earth and climate science for the ...

Slalom Consulting

General Information

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$50 - $80/hr

The Climate Analyst supports the Climate Scientist by translating climate and hazard data into actionable insights that strengthen preparedness, response, and recovery. The role focuses on predictive ...

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Climate Science information

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$24.2K

$47.8K

$78K

How much do climate science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for climate science in California is $47,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $51,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a climate scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Climate Scientist, you need a strong background in environmental science, atmospheric physics, mathematics, and typically a graduate degree in a related field. Familiarity with climate modeling software, programming languages like Python or R, and experience analyzing large datasets are commonly required. Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you interpret data and share findings with diverse audiences. These skills ensure rigorous scientific research, accurate climate predictions, and impactful contributions to environmental policy and public understanding.

What are some common challenges climate scientists face when conducting field research?

Climate scientists often encounter logistical and environmental challenges while conducting field research. These can include accessing remote or hazardous locations, dealing with unpredictable weather conditions, and transporting sensitive equipment. Collaboration with local experts and interdisciplinary teams is essential to ensure accurate data collection and analysis. Additionally, securing funding and adhering to regulatory requirements can be ongoing hurdles, but overcoming these challenges provides valuable experience and contributes to meaningful scientific advancements.

What do climate scientists do?

Climate scientists study the Earth's climate systems, analyzing data on temperature, weather patterns, and greenhouse gas levels to understand climate change. They use tools like computer models and conduct field research to assess environmental impacts and inform policy decisions.

Do climate scientists make a lot of money?

Climate scientists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location, but they generally earn a median annual wage comparable to other environmental science roles, often ranging from $50,000 to $100,000. Advanced positions, such as research scientists or those with PhDs, tend to have higher salaries, especially in government or private sectors. Skills in data analysis, modeling, and environmental monitoring are valuable in this field.

What is climate science?

Climate science is the study of Earth's climate system, including the atmosphere, oceans, land surfaces, and ice. It involves understanding how these components interact, how the climate has changed in the past, and how it may change in the future due to natural and human influences. Climate scientists use data from observations, models, and experiments to analyze trends, predict climate scenarios, and inform policy decisions. Their work is crucial for addressing issues like global warming, extreme weather events, and environmental sustainability.

What can you do with a climate science degree?

A climate science degree prepares individuals for careers such as climate analyst, environmental consultant, research scientist, or policy advisor. These roles often involve data analysis, modeling, and using tools like GIS and climate models to assess environmental impacts and develop sustainable solutions.

What is the difference between Climate Science vs Environmental Science?

AspectClimate ScienceEnvironmental Science
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Climate Science, Environmental Science, or related fields; certifications in climate modeling or data analysisBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related fields; certifications in environmental management
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government agencies, climate modeling centersEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, NGOs
Industry UsageFocuses on climate change, atmospheric processes, and global warmingFocuses on ecosystems, pollution, conservation, and sustainability

Climate Science and Environmental Science share overlapping skills and work environments but differ in focus. Climate Science centers on climate change and atmospheric processes, while Environmental Science covers broader ecological and pollution issues. Both fields are vital for addressing environmental challenges and often collaborate in research and policy development.

What are popular job titles related to Climate Science jobs in California? For Climate Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Climate Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Climate Science jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Climate Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Climate Science job openings:
Climate Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climate Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,757 per year, or $23 per hour.

Assistant Professor in Climate Science

Stanford Energy

Stanford, CA

$143K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Stanford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Assistant Professor in Climate Science

Apply now Work type: University Tenure Line
Location: Stanford University
Categories: Doerr School of Sustainability

Stanford University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the field of Climate Science. The home department may be any of the seven departments in the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability, with the final choice dependent on the preferences of the candidate and the department. The scope of the search is broad, and we welcome applications from scholars studying all aspects of climate science, including climate processes, climate-change impacts, and sustainability engineering. Relevant approaches may be modeling and theoretical studies, laboratory and field work, and synthesis of modern, historical, and satellite data. We invite applications from candidates who have completed or will soon complete their PhD in related fields. Application materials need to be submitted online at this link. The deadline to submit your application is November 1, 2026. Later applications may be considered at the discretion of the search committee.

Applications must include:

1. Cover letter

2. Curriculum vitae

3. Contact information for three reference letter writers

4. Research statement (maximum 2 pages)

5. Teaching statement (maximum 1 page)

The Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability and Stanford University value faculty who will help foster an open and respectful academic environment for colleagues, students, and staff with a wide range of backgrounds, and perspectives. Candidates may choose to include as part of their research and teaching statements a brief discussion about how their work and experience will further these values.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University's research, teaching and clinical missions.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact disability.access@stanford.edu.

The expected base pay range for this position is: Assistant Professor: $143,500 -$180,000. Stanford University has provided a base pay range representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for the position. The pay offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors including (but not limited to) the experience and qualifications of the selected candidate including years since terminal degree, training, and field or discipline; departmental budget availability; internal equity; and external market pay for comparable jobs.

For general questions regarding this position, please contact Haley Mees at hmees@stanford.edu.

Advertised: 03 Aug 2026 1:35 PM Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: 01 Nov 2026 11:55 PM Pacific Standard Time

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