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Climate Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

SageSure

Catastrophe Risk Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

Support the integration of climate science and emerging research into catastrophe risk modeling and analytics. * Collaborate with internal teams (underwriting, actuarial, reinsurance, risk, and data ...

SageSure

Senior Catastrophe Risk Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

Support integration of climate science and emerging research into catastrophe risk analytics. * Collaborate with internal stakeholders (underwriting, actuarial, reinsurance, risk, and data science ...

SageSure

Senior Catastrophe Risk Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

Support integration of climate science and emerging research into catastrophe risk analytics. * Collaborate with internal stakeholders (underwriting, actuarial, reinsurance, risk, and data science ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... processes, climate systems, and natural resources. Ability to explain the rock cycle, weather ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... processes, climate systems, and natural resources. Ability to explain the rock cycle, weather ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... processes, climate systems, and natural resources. Ability to explain the rock cycle, weather ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... processes, climate systems, and natural resources. Ability to explain the rock cycle, weather ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Evanston, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... processes, climate systems, and natural resources. Ability to explain the rock cycle, weather ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... processes, climate systems, and natural resources. Ability to explain the rock cycle, weather ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Schaumburg, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... processes, climate systems, and natural resources. Ability to explain the rock cycle, weather ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... processes, climate systems, and natural resources. Ability to explain the rock cycle, weather ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Highland Park, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... processes, climate systems, and natural resources. Ability to explain the rock cycle, weather ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... processes, climate systems, and natural resources. Ability to explain the rock cycle, weather ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

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Climate Science information

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$25.2K

$49.9K

$81.4K

How much do climate science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for climate science in Chicago, IL is $49,850.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $53,600.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Climate Science jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Climate Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Climate Science jobs in Chicago, IL? For Climate Science jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Climate Science jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Climate Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Climate Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climate Science job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,850 per year, or $24 per hour.
Communications Specialist, Science and Technology

Communications Specialist, Science and Technology

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$55K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

152nd of 611 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department
Climate Institute Policy Communications
About the Department
The University of Chicago Institute for Climate and Sustainable Growth (ICSG) is a groundbreaking effort uniting faculty from across the university to advance society's understanding of our energy and climate future. The Institute combines faculty insights in energy markets and policy, climate systems engineering, and energy technology to produce world-changing ideas while also investing in the next generation of energy and climate thinkers, leaders, and innovators through novel educational programs.
Job Summary
The Communications Specialist, Science and Technology, will lead the development and execution of the communications strategy for the Institute's science and technology portfolios as well as supporting the Institute's broader climate research communications. This work will include managing campaign launches of new research; maintaining the digital presence of the science and technology portfolios through web, social and email marketing; and being the central liaison on the Institute's communications team for all matters related to science and technology.
The Communications Specialist, Science and Technology, will report to the Senior Director of Communications and External Engagement. This role will work closely with the Institute's Senior Digital Marketing Lead. The Communications Specialist, Science and Technology, will join a passionate team at an exciting moment of significant growth and development for the Institute.
Responsibilities
  • Develops and executes communications strategies to promote and amplify the science and technology research and programming of the Institute, including but not limited to the Energy Technologies Initiative, initiatives related to AI and climate, geophysical sciences researc,h and other research initiatives as needed.
  • Leads marketing strategy and messaging, working with contract and internal designers to develop materials.
  • Creates and carries out roll outs for the release of new research. This includes writing research summaries, news releases, social media campaigns, and other content to promote the research.
  • Maintains daily digital communication efforts in close coordination and support of the Senior Digital Marketing Lead. This includes creating social media and email marketing campaigns for the science and technology initiatives, as well as adding the latest research, news and events to the initiatives' websites.
  • Manages media relations for the initiatives in close coordination and support of the Senior Director of Communications and External Engagement. This includes developing and maintaining media lists and creating pitch materials, as well as monitoring, tracking and reporting on media activities and coverage.
  • Develops strategies to build stakeholder engagement for the initiatives. This includes but is not limited to conducting stakeholder mapping and maintaining lists.
  • Manages the promotion and assists in execution of events and general programming, in coordination and support of the Manager, Institute Events and Visitor Program. This includes managing the creation and distribution of advertising materials for programming, assisting in staging, and creating content to summarize programming.
  • Drafts and edits news stories and other content under tight deadlines. This includes writing profiles of researchers and other programming.
  • Records and monitors analytics for the initiatives' websites, social media and email marketing accounts. Reports to the communications team with relevant data to inform strategies.
  • Makes contributions to the media interface, including writing press releases, planning and organizing media coverage for major events, and crafting responses to sensitive or controversial issues.
  • Solves moderate to complex problems related to the writing, preparation, and/or delivery of information from or about the unit.
  • Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications:
---
Preferred Qualification
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing or a related field, or in a related subject such as science or engineering.

Experience:
  • Minimum of five years of experience working in a communications role.
  • Highly experienced in writing about complex climate, science and/or technology issues, including research.
  • Background managing websites, email marketing and social media accounts in a professional capacity, as well as maintaining stakeholder/media lists.
  • Some experience or interest in media relations.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:
  • Knowledge of climate/energy research and issues.
  • Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and web-based communication methods and tools such as Hubspot,
  • Advanced skills in WordPress, Google Analytics or similar platforms.

Preferred Competencies
  • Strong writer who is able to digest and translate complex subjects for a general audience.
  • Knowledge of best practices in digital engagement and their applications to communication strategies, including through web, email and social media.
  • Some knowledge in working with reporters and within the media landscape.
  • Exceptional interpersonal skills, and work both independently with initiative and collaboratively as part of a team.
  • Manage and prioritize diverse job tasks, perform effectively in a fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines in a timely manner while maintaining professionalism and product quality.
  • Excellent organizational skills, flexibility and attention to detail.

Working Conditions
  • This is a hybrid position, with an expected 3 days on campus per week.

Application Documents
  • Resume/CV (required)
  • Cover Letter (required)
  • Three Professional References Contact Information (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Communications
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
Scheduled Weekly Hours
37.5
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Pay Rate Type
Salary
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Range
$95,000.00 - $110,000.00
The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

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