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Earth Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Earth Scientist

Greenbelt, MD

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC's GLOMAS contract is looking for an Earth System Scientist to support global modeling and data assimilation support at the agency's Goddard Space Flight Center in ...

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Chevron

2026-2027 Earth Scientist Full Time

Houston, TX · On-site

$108K - $140K/yr

2026-2027 Earth Scientist - Full Time Who We Are. Chevron is one of the world's leading energy companies-but what really sets us apart is how we're rethinking energy for the future. From producing ...

Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES

Earth Science Teacher

Auburn, NY · On-site

$56K/yr

The Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES is seeking a passionate and dedicated New York State (NYS) Certified Earth Science Teacher to join our team in the Compass Program. The Compass Program serves students who ...

ONC Boces Roxbury

Earth Science Teacher

Roxbury, NY

$51K/yr

Roxbury Central School Roxbury Central School District, located in the heart of the beautiful Catskill Mountains, is currently seeking highly qualified candidates for the full-time Earth Science ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Reading, PA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Earth Science tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Earth Science tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Columbus, OH · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Earth Science tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Carrollton, TX · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Earth Science tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

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Earth Scientist information

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$37K

$91K

$160K

How much do earth scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for earth scientist in the United States is $90,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers are there in earth science?

Earth scientists can pursue careers such as geologists, hydrologists, environmental scientists, geophysicists, and paleontologists. These roles involve studying Earth's processes, analyzing data with tools like GIS and remote sensing, and often require fieldwork and specialized certifications or advanced degrees.

What is the work of an Earth scientist?

An Earth scientist studies the Earth's physical properties, processes, and history, often analyzing rocks, minerals, and soil samples. They use tools like GIS software and field equipment to conduct research, assess natural resources, and understand environmental changes. Their work can involve fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation to inform environmental policy and resource management.

How much do earth scientists get paid?

Earth scientists' salaries vary based on experience, education, and location, but the median annual wage in the United States is around $93,000. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced professionals or those in specialized fields can earn significantly more, especially with advanced degrees and fieldwork skills.

What are Earth Scientists?

Earth Scientists are professionals who study the physical constitution and processes of the Earth. They examine aspects such as rocks, minerals, soils, water, atmosphere, and the forces that shape the planet's structure and environment. Earth Scientists can specialize in various fields like geology, meteorology, oceanography, and environmental science. Their work helps us understand natural hazards, locate natural resources, and address environmental challenges. They often work in research, education, environmental consulting, or governmental agencies.

What are some typical challenges Earth Scientists face when conducting fieldwork, and how are these managed?

Earth Scientists often encounter unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and limited access to remote research sites during fieldwork. To manage these challenges, teams prioritize safety planning, use specialized equipment, and coordinate closely with local experts or guides. Flexibility and adaptability are key, as project timelines may shift due to environmental conditions. Effective communication and thorough preparation help ensure successful data collection and minimize risks.

What is the difference between Earth Scientist vs Geologist?

AspectEarth ScientistGeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Earth sciences, geology, or related fields; often advanced degrees for research rolesBachelor's or higher in geology or Earth sciences; certifications like PG or PG in geology may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field sites, government agencies, environmental firmsFieldwork, laboratories, consulting firms, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, environmental agencies, energy companiesMining, oil & gas, environmental consulting, government geological surveys

Earth Scientists and Geologists share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often collaborating in research and fieldwork. While Earth Scientists may focus on broader Earth processes, Geologists typically specialize in studying rocks, minerals, and Earth's physical structure. Both roles are vital in understanding Earth's systems and are frequently searched together by those interested in Earth sciences careers.

What can I do with a degree in earth science?

Earth scientists can work in fields such as environmental consulting, resource exploration, hazard assessment, and research. They often analyze geological data, use tools like GIS software, and may require fieldwork and laboratory skills. Career options include roles in government agencies, private companies, and academia.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Earth Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Earth Scientist, you need a solid background in geology, environmental science, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree. Experience with GIS software, remote sensing tools, laboratory techniques, and sometimes certifications like Professional Geologist (PG) are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills help Earth Scientists effectively interpret data and collaborate on research projects. These competencies are crucial for accurately understanding Earth's processes and providing insights that inform environmental policy, resource management, and hazard mitigation.
More about Earth Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Earth Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Earth Scientist job openings:
What states have the most Earth Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Earth Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Earth Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Earth Scientist jobs are:
Earth Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Earth Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,961 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Earth Scientist

Earth Scientist

Science Applications International Corporation

Greenbelt, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 213 rated it services

Job description


SAIC's GLOMAS contract is looking for an Earth System Scientist to support global modeling and data assimilation support at the agency's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. Under this contract, SAIC will be responsible for supporting and maintaining NASA Goddard's Global Modeling and Assimilation Office's Goddard Earth Observing System (GEOS) model and data assimilation system.
Job Duties:
  • Provide technical leadership and advanced scientific programming skills in the development, implementation, testing, and documentation of scientific software and algorithms for modeling and data assimilation systems.
  • Conduct numerical experiments to support scientific investigations.
  • Contribute to the presentation of scientific results at conferences, workshops and in peer- reviewed publications.

Qualifications
  • Master's degree in atmospheric science, oceanography or other physical science, mathematics or computational science with 7+ years of experience in scientific programming, including five in a leadership role, and excellent communication skills. Broad understanding of atmospheric science, oceanography, or other appropriate Earth science discipline, scientific data analysis and data management.
  • Active Public Trust Clearance
  • Extensive experience in Fortran programming for parallel architectures, UNIX shell scripting, and configuration management (CM) tools such as Git.
  • Experience in software engineering and programming with MPI, ESMF, C++, Python, object-oriented programming, HTML, Java, GrADS, and/or MATLAB and familiarity with AI/ML concepts and implementation is highly desirable. Experience in developing customized software for high performance computing environments such as GPUs.

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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