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Climate Science Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Meteorologist

Negaunee, MI · On-site

$40K/yr

... science coursework, including three or more of the following: physical hydrology, statistics, chemistry, physical oceanography, physical climatology, radiative transfer, aeronomy, advanced ...

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Climate Science information

See Michigan salary details

$21.4K

$42.2K

$68.9K

How much do climate science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for climate science in Michigan is $42,177.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,600.00 and $45,300.00 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 typically earn a median salary that is comparable to other environmental science roles, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced degrees and research expertise can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by grants and institutional funding.

What is the highest paying job in environmental science?

In environmental science, senior roles such as Environmental Director or Climate Policy Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and may involve overseeing large projects or policy development.

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.

$40K/yr

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

This position is located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS), Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) or National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), with vacancies in each listed location.
This job announcement is intended to establish a Standing Register of Eligible Applicants to fill vacancies as they arise with an initial cut-off date of July 1, 2026. Please refer to the Qualifications section for additional information.Qualifications:

This Standing Register Job Announcement establishes an applicant pool under Direct Hire Authority 5 CFR 337.205(b) to fill full-time permanent positions at multiple NWS locations as vacancies occur. The announcement will remain open as stated in the vacancy notice. For consideration during the current review cycle, applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on July 12, 2026.

Applications received after the cutoff may be considered during future review cycles. Applicants remain eligible for consideration for up to six months after the announcement closes or until they withdraw. Applicants who withdraw may reapply for future referrals. Eligible applicants may also be considered for additional vacancies as new certificates are issued.

After the announcement closes, applicants may submit documentation of additional qualifications earned after the closing date to noaa.applicantinquiries@noaa.gov. This information may be considered for up to six months following the closing date.

Incomplete resumes, unsupported questionnaire responses, or missing required documentation may result in an applicant being rated ineligible or not qualified. Applicants may update their application for future cutoff dates.

Qualification requirements are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook.


BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must meet the positive education requirement and specialized experience requirement (or applicable education substitution/combination). Transcripts must be submitted.

To qualify for the 1340 Meteorology series:

EDUCATION:
A. Degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or another natural science major that includes:

  • At least 24 semester (36 quarter) hours in meteorology/atmospheric science, including:
    • 6 semester hours in atmospheric dynamics and thermodynamics
    • 6 semester hours in analysis and prediction of weather systems (synoptic/mesoscale)
    • 3 semester hours in physical meteorology
    • 2 semester hours in remote sensing of the atmosphere and/or instrumentation
  • 6 semester hours of physics, including at least one laboratory course.
  • 3 semester hours of ordinary differential equations.
  • 9 semester hours in appropriate physical science coursework, including three or more of the following: physical hydrology, statistics, chemistry, physical oceanography, physical climatology, radiative transfer, aeronomy, advanced thermodynamics, advanced electricity and magnetism, light and optics, or computer science.

Calculus coursework appropriate for a physical science major is required as a prerequisite or corequisite for atmospheric dynamics and thermodynamics, physics, and differential equations.

OR

B. Combination of education and experience that includes the required coursework above.


SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower federal grade level. Specialized experience is experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the position duties. Qualifying experience may include paid or unpaid work, including volunteer service.
GS-05:
Applicants who meet the basic education requirement qualify at the GS-05 level.


GS-07:
In addition to the basic requirements, applicants must meet one of the following:

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-05, including:

  • Using current hydro-meteorological data to monitor conditions and assist with forecast preparation for weather, water, or climate hazards.

OR

EDUCATION: One full year of graduate-level education in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or a related field.

OR

SUPERIOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT: A bachelor's degree with one of the following:

  • GPA of 3.0 or higher overall or during the final two years of undergraduate study;
  • GPA of 3.5 or higher in major coursework;
  • Upper third ranking in graduating class; or
  • Membership in a qualifying national scholastic honor society.

OR

COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: A combination of graduate education and specialized experience may satisfy requirements.


GS-09:
In addition to the basic requirements, applicants must meet one of the following:

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-07, including:

  • Using advanced hydro-meteorological data to monitor a geographic area and assist in preparing and issuing warnings, advisories, outlooks, and forecasts for weather, water, or climate hazards.

OR

EDUCATION: Master's degree or equivalent graduate degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or a related field, or two years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree.

OR

COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: A combination of qualifying graduate education and specialized experience may satisfy requirements. Only graduate education beyond the amount required for the next lower grade level may be combined with experience.

Education:

College Transcript: If you are qualifying based on education, submit a copy of your college transcript that lists college courses detailing each course by the number and department (i.e., Bio 101, Math 210, etc.), name of accredited institution, course title, number of credit hours and grade earned. You must submit evidence that any education completed in a foreign institution is equivalent to U.S. education standards with your resume. You may submit an unofficial copy of the transcript at the initial phase of the application process. If course content cannot be easily identified from the title of the course as listed on your transcript, you must submit an official course description from the college/university that reflects the content at the time the course was taken.
Note: Your college transcript is used to verify successful completion of degree, or college course work. An official college transcript will be required before you can report to duty.
Education completed in colleges or universities outside the United States may be used to meet the above requirements. You must provide acceptable documentation that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: OPM Foreign Education Evaluation.

Employment Type: OTHER