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Earth Science Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Center for Satellite and Earth Science Research (CSER) advances Earth system science through cutting-edge satellite technology, data-driven research, and interdisciplinary collaboration. We ...

Science Teacher

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$46K - $60K/yr

... earth science, environmental science, and oceanography while creating engaging, student-centered learning experiences through experiments, research, and hands-on laboratory activities. Key ...

Geologist

Reston, VA · On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

With all the information available today, it takes a skilled earth scientist to know how to find ... You will conduct independent research, technical writing, modeling, and overseeing or advising with ...

Geologist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

With all the information available today, it takes a skilled earth scientist to know how to find ... You will conduct independent research, technical writing, modeling, and overseeing or advising with ...

Geologist

Lorton, VA · On-site

$77K - $176K/yr

With all the information available today, it takes a skilled earth scientist to know how to find ... You will conduct independent research, technical writing, modeling, and overseeing or advising with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Earth Science Research information

See Virginia salary details

$13.6K

$67.3K

$147.3K

How much do earth science research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for earth science research in Virginia is $67,340.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,305.00 and $75,857.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is earth science research?

Earth Science Research involves the study of the physical constitution of the Earth and its atmosphere, as well as the processes that shape them. Researchers in this field investigate topics such as geology, meteorology, oceanography, and environmental science to better understand natural phenomena like earthquakes, climate change, and resource distribution. The aim is to gather and analyze data to advance scientific knowledge, support sustainable management of natural resources, and inform public policy. Earth science researchers often work in labs, the field, or academic settings, collaborating with government agencies or private organizations.

How do earth science researchers typically collaborate with professionals from other disciplines during projects?

Earth Science Researchers often work closely with experts from fields such as engineering, computer science, and environmental policy to address complex research questions. Collaboration may involve sharing datasets, co-developing models, or contributing to multidisciplinary grant proposals. These interactions are essential for integrating different perspectives and methodologies, ultimately leading to more robust findings. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as researchers frequently participate in cross-functional meetings, workshops, and fieldwork alongside collaborators.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an earth science researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Earth Science Researcher, you need a strong background in geology, environmental science, or related fields, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a Master's or PhD. Proficiency in data analysis tools (like GIS, MATLAB, or Python), laboratory techniques, and field research equipment is essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help researchers analyze complex data and share findings with scientific and public audiences. These skills and qualities are vital for advancing scientific understanding and addressing environmental challenges.

What are the most commonly searched types of Earth Science Research jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Earth Science Research jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Earth Science Research jobs in Virginia?

For Earth Science Research jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Earth Science Research jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Earth Science Research jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Earth Science Research job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,340 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Consultant - Earth Sciences and Environment

Esri

Vienna, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Esri rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 247 rated software companies


Job description

Overview

In this position, you will use your consulting and project delivery skills to enable organizations to leverage their investment in location intelligence. You will work alongside Senior Consultants and Practice Managers to recommend relevant strategies, architectures, and solutions for customer requirements. You will partner directly with customers to prepare them for enterprise implementations, migrations, and change management activities.

This team supports all aspects of our Federal engagement delivery, with a focus on Earth Sciences & Environment agencies. You will be part of a talented cross-functional team of technical consultants, system engineers, software developers, and configuration specialists delivering capabilities that enable our customers to make a difference in communities around the world.

The Professional Services division is the consulting and implementation arm of Esri. We break ground in new markets, push the technology envelope, and ultimately deliver transformational solutions to high-profile clients worldwide. The Professional Services organization is comprised of nearly 1,000 talented business and technical professionals who strive every day to help our users be successful.

Esri has a Relocation Assistance Program and can provide support with relocating to the Vienna, VA area for this position. 

Responsibilities

  • Act as a liaison between Professional Services and customers by gathering requirements and translating them into actionable technical work
  • Expand Esri technology into new mission areas by contributing to proposals and estimates for emerging opportunities
  • Collaborate with technical consultants and subject matter experts to deliver mission-critical customer outcomes
  • Contribute to the management of project cost, scope, and schedule; track work to ensure timely deliverables
  • Build a network of virtual team members across Esri to identify and create best practices for GIS usage

Requirements

  • 5+ years of professional experience in a similar consulting or project delivery role on IT-based projects
  • Professional experience leveraging GIS software capabilities, including mapping, field operations, spatial analysis and data science, 3D visualization and analytics, data management, and developer APIs
  • Demonstrated ability to translate a customer's business goals, objectives, and strategies into technical solutions
  • Ability to engage clients, shape strategy, and translate science into geospatial solutions
  • Ability to clearly communicate technical ideas to both technical peers and non-technical project managers or customers
  • Bring an entrepreneurial mindset and a willingness to learn, with the ability to thrive in a dynamic, cross-functional team environment
  • US citizenship and willingness and ability to maintain a US Government Public Trust
  • Bachelor's degree in geography, computer science, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), information systems, earth science, health science, social science, or a STEM-related field

Recommended Qualifications

  • Domain expertise in environmental and earth systems such as earth systems science (such as climate, oceans, atmospheric science, hydrology, environmental monitoring, remote sensing) to develop and deliver customer opportunities
  • Ability to translate technical concepts into clear, mission aligned insights for both technical and executive audiences
  • Ability to connect project work to broader mission outcomes, policy priorities, and emerging trends (such as climate resilience, AI/ML in earth observation, digital twins, sensor networks)
  • Experience with ArcGIS, GeoAI, location-based services, geo-enabled apps, spatial analytics, or similar geospatial technology
  • Familiarity with Federal Sciences mission domains (such as health and human services, earth observation, environmental and climate science, research data management)
  • Understanding of IT integration concepts such as databases, web services, webhooks, mobile device configurations, web browsers, and IT system architecture concepts
  • One or more industry-standard IT certifications (such as Esri, CompTIA, Microsoft, Amazon)
  • Master's degree in geography, computer science, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), information systems, earth science, health science, social science, or a STEM-related field

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About ESRI

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our passion for improving quality of life through geography is at the heart of everything we do. Esri's geographic information system (GIS) technology inspires and enables governments, universities, and businesses worldwide to save money, lives, and our environment through a deeper understanding of the changing world around them.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Redlands, CA, US

Year founded

1969