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Earth System Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

George Mason University

Research Scientist

Fairfax, VA · On-site

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 ...

ADNET Systems, Inc.

My NASA Data Fellow

Hampton, VA · On-site

... Earth's systems. These resources support science curricula and cultivate crucial skills for future STEM engagement and workforce readiness. The successful candidate will have experience with ...

ADNET Systems, Inc.

My NASA Data Fellow

Hampton, VA · On-site +1

... Earth's systems. These resources support science curricula and cultivate crucial skills for future STEM engagement and workforce readiness. The successful candidate will have experience with ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Richmond, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Charlottesville, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Blacksburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Virginia Beach, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Norfolk, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

Earth Science Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Guides students through analyzing topographic maps, predicting weather from pressure systems ... Familiar with earth science curricula including New York Regents Earth Science standards and common ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Science Tutor

Richmond, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and earth systems. Ability to explain scientific principles, laboratory techniques, and data analysis methods while preparing students for AP science courses, Regents examinations, and college ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Science Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and earth systems. Ability to explain scientific principles, laboratory techniques, and data analysis methods while preparing students for AP science courses, Regents examinations, and college ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Science Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and earth systems. Ability to explain scientific principles, laboratory techniques, and data analysis methods while preparing students for AP science courses, Regents examinations, and college ...

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Earth System Science information

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$24.3K

$48K

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How much do earth system science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for earth system science in Virginia is $47,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $51,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Earth system scientist do?

An Earth system scientist studies the interactions among Earth's atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and geosphere to understand climate, environmental changes, and natural processes. They often use computer models, data analysis, and fieldwork to analyze complex systems and inform sustainable practices.

What can you do with an earth systems degree?

An Earth System Science degree prepares individuals for careers in environmental consulting, research, resource management, and policy development. Graduates often work as environmental scientists, climate analysts, sustainability specialists, or in roles that require data analysis, GIS skills, and understanding of ecological systems.

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

To thrive as an Earth System Scientist, you need a solid background in environmental science, geology, atmospheric science, and data analysis, often supported by an advanced degree in a related field. Expertise in technical tools such as remote sensing software, geographic information systems (GIS), climate modeling platforms, and programming languages like Python or R is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication skills help translate complex scientific data into actionable insights for diverse audiences. These skills are crucial for advancing our understanding of Earth's processes, informing policy, and addressing global environmental challenges.

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations for professionals in Earth System Science?

Earth System Science professionals frequently collaborate with experts from fields like atmospheric science, oceanography, geology, ecology, and data science. These interdisciplinary partnerships are essential for addressing complex environmental challenges such as climate change, resource management, and natural hazard prediction. Teamwork often involves joint research projects, data sharing, and contributing specialized expertise to integrated models or policy recommendations. This collaborative environment not only broadens your skill set but also opens up diverse career advancement opportunities.

What careers are there in earth science?

Careers in earth science include roles such as geoscientist, environmental scientist, hydrologist, and climate analyst. These positions often require knowledge of geology, chemistry, and data analysis, and may involve fieldwork, laboratory research, or modeling using specialized software.

Is earth system science a good major?

Earth System Science is a multidisciplinary major that prepares students for careers in environmental research, policy, and resource management. Graduates often work in government agencies, research institutions, or environmental consulting, requiring skills in data analysis, modeling, and understanding complex ecological systems.

What is Earth System Science?

Earth System Science is an interdisciplinary field that studies the interactions between the Earth's atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, geosphere, and human activities. It seeks to understand how these systems interact, influence each other, and change over time. By examining these complex relationships, Earth System Science helps us predict environmental changes, manage natural resources, and address challenges like climate change. Professionals in this field often use tools from physics, chemistry, geology, and biology to analyze data and build models of the Earth's processes.
What are popular job titles related to Earth System Science jobs in Virginia? For Earth System Science jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Earth System Science jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Earth System Science jobs in Virginia are:
Earth System Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Earth System Science job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,976 per year, or $23.1 per hour.
Research Scientist

Research Scientist

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

George Mason University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: College of Science
Classification: Research Staff 12-month
Job Category: Research Staff
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)
Location: Fairfax, VA
Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible
Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship
Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience
Restricted: Yes
Criminal Background Check: Yes
About the Department:
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 deliver policy-relevant insights that enhance environmental resilience, support sustainable development, and empower the next generation of scientific leaders through meaningful research and mentorship. As a national leader in remote sensing, we provide reliable early warning systems that inform the public, save lives, and strengthen global resilience.
Statement on Building an Inclusive Culture
George Mason University College of Science (Mason Science) is committed to advancing all-inclusive excellence and fostering an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation throughout our STEM community. At Mason Science, our values include cultivating an organizational culture that promotes belonging, respect, and civility. We believe that varied opinions, cultures, and perspectives are what provides vibrancy, innovation and growth to an academic community. By prioritizing cultural responsiveness in academics, teaching, research, and global engagement, we strive to attract faculty and staff who exemplify the Mason Science mission and vision.
About the Position:
The primary purpose of this Research Scientist position is to take a role of code manager for NOAA/OAR/ARL's model and tool repository. The Research Scientist will also conduct the developmental and testing work for the atmospheric composition models.
Responsibilities:
Leads Research in Air Quality Forecasting and Modeling
  • Designs, implements, and manages research projects focused on regional and urban-scale air quality forecasting; and
  • Collaborates with multi-disciplinary teams to integrate modeling outputs into operational decision-making systems.

Develop Advanced ML/AI Models for Air Quality Applications
  • Applies machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to enhance traditional chemical transport modeling systems;
  • Improves prediction accuracy and computational efficiency through fine-resolution data fusion, bias correction, and model surrogate development; and
  • Conducts experiments comparing AI-enhanced models with conventional methods and validate performance under various atmospheric scenarios.

Disseminate Research through Publications and Scientific Engagement
  • Prepares manuscripts for submission to high-impact, peer-reviewed journals in atmospheric science, environmental engineering, or AI applications;
  • Presents research findings at national and international scientific conferences, workshops, and stakeholder meetings; and
  • Contributes to proposal development for external research funding, including NSF, NOAA, NASA, and EPA.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in related field;
  • Considerable experience (generally 5 years or longer) in atmospheric sciences; and
  • Knowledge of Fortran, Python, R, Database (Postgres, MySQL, SQLite), Shell program language skills.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of Community Multiscale Air Quality program (CMAQ), Sparse Matrix Operator Kerner Emissions program (SMOKE), Data Assimilation, Surrogate Tools, and other modeling skillsets.

Instructions to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants must apply for Research Scientist at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a Cover Letter/Letter of Intent with Resume for review.
Posting Open Date: February 16, 2026
For Full Consideration, Apply by: March 2, 2026
Open Until Filled: Yes
Mason Ad Statement
George Mason University is a nationally ranked R1 research university committed to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world. With 40,000 enrolled students, George Mason is the largest and most diverse public research university in Virginia, offering degree programs at the master's, doctoral, and professional level, along with certificates and credentials.
George Mason fosters an All Together Different environment for students, faculty, and staff, driven by our core beliefs. We believe in inclusivity over exclusivity; we believe in advancing our mission by being willing to take risks, not avoiding them; and we believe our best work is possible when we apply our diversity of origin, identity, circumstance, and thought.
Equity Statement
George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Campus Safety Information
Mason's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at http://police.gmu.edu/annual-security-report/

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