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Climate Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Emphasizes scientific inquiry and connects agricultural science to food security, climate change adaptation, and rural economic development. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Showing results 21-40

Climate Science information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.2K

$49.9K

$81.4K

How much do climate science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 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' 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 the most commonly searched types of Climate Science jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Climate Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Climate Science job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,850 per year, or $24 per hour.

Assistant Professor, Climate Systems Engineering initiative (CSEi)

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

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Job description

Description
The University of Chicago invites applications from scholars who will make significant contributions to Climate Systems Engineering. The University is building a world-leading Climate Systems Engineering initiative (CSEi) with multiple faculty hires addressing solar geoengineering, open-system carbon removal such as enhanced weathering, and interventions to limit loss of glacial ice. We seek individuals who will lead research programs that will produce significant contributions to their field and to this research initiative.
Applications are welcome from all relevant academic disciplines including the physical and biological sciences, social sciences, engineering, and humanities at the rank of tenure-track Assistant Professor. Applications are welcome from scholars who have not previously worked on climate systems engineering and from scholars who focus on the physical or social risks of Climate Systems Engineering. Appointments will be made in an appropriate primary department based on field, with secondary appointment(s) in another unit possible.
Research on Climate Systems Engineering is inherently interdisciplinary, so we seek individuals with a track record of collaboration beyond their discipline; the University's culture is highly collaborative.
This position is benefits-eligible. 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.
Qualifications
Completion of all requirements for a doctoral degree is required prior to appointment.
Application Instructions
The following materials are required:
  • A cover letter,
  • A curriculum vitae,
  • A statement of research (up to 5 pages) that describes how you plan to integrate research on climate systems engineering into your overall research trajectory,
  • A statement of teaching philosophy and experience,
  • Applicants are required to request three confidential letters of recommendation via Interfolio.

The following additional materials may be requested:
  • Up to three sample publications.

Applications must be submitted through the University of Chicago academic careers website: https://apply.interfolio.com/176469.
Review of applications will begin on November 24, 2025, and will continue until all positions are filled.

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