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Earth System Science 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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

See Virginia salary details

$24.3K

$48K

$78.3K

How much do earth system science jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 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 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 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.
Infographic showing various Earth System Science job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 43% Physical, and 57% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,976 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Research Scientist

Virginia Jobs

Fairfax, VA • Hybrid

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


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