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Earth System Science Jobs in Washington (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 ...

Earth Science Tutor

Washington, DC ยท 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 ...

Earth Science Tutor

Leesburg, VA ยท 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 ...

Earth Science Tutor

Bowie, MD ยท 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 ...

Earth Science Tutor

Fairfax, VA ยท 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 ...

Earth Science Tutor

Laurel, MD ยท 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 ...

Earth Science Tutor

Rockville, MD ยท 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 ...

Earth Science Tutor

College Park, MD ยท 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 ...

Earth Science Tutor

Alexandria, VA ยท 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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Earth System Science information

See Washington salary details

$27.7K

$54.8K

$89.5K

How much do earth system science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for earth system science in Washington is $54,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $58,900.00 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 Washington? For Earth System Science jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Earth System Science job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,807 per year, or $26.3 per hour.
Post Doctorate Research Associate - Earth Systems Sciences

Post Doctorate Research Associate - Earth Systems Sciences

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

College Park, MD โ€ข On-site

$69K/yr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Overview
At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget.
Our Science & Technology directorates include National Security, Earth and Biological Sciences, Physical and Computational Sciences, and Energy and Environment. In addition, we have an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy, Office of Science user facility housed on the PNNL campus.
The Earth and Biological Sciences Directorate (EBSD) leads critical research in four areas: Atmospheric, Climate & Earth Sciences, Biological Sciences, Environmental Molecular Sciences, and Global Change. Our vision is to develop a predictive understanding of biological and Earth systems in transition. We aim to understand energy and material flows within the integrated Earth system; to understand, predict, and control the response of biosystems to environmental and/or genomic changes; and to Model the Earth system from the subsurface to the atmosphere.
The Global Change Division is home to the Joint Global Change Research Institute (JGCRI). JGCRI is a global leader in the interdisciplinary field of integrated assessment multi-sector analysis. Research at the institute is conducted to advance fundamental understanding of human and Earth systems and provide information related to global change, energy, and environment that is unbiased and decision-relevant but not policy prescriptive. The institute is a partnership between PNNL and the University of Maryland, supporting research, modeling, and integrated analysis at the interface of human, energy, and Earth systems.
Responsibilities
PNNL is soliciting applications for postdoctoral scientist positions advancing research and modeling of energy, critical minerals and materials (CMM), and supply chain systems. This research will contribute to the Global Change Intersectoral Modeling System (GCIMS) Science Focus Area led by PNNL and sponsored by DOE BER, as well as other projects at PNNL. The successful applicant will lead the analysis using the Global Change Analysis Model (GCAM; http://jgcri.github.io/gcam-doc/index.html). Specifically, this scientist will focus on model, data, and scenario development to generate GCAM simulations that quantify the impacts of uncertain technologies, resources, and other relevant factors on the integrated energy, CMM, and economic systems. The scientist is expected to apply advancing artificial intelligence and machine learning tools in this analysis where appropriate. The scientist is also expected to lead multiple peer-reviewed publications on this work; there will be many opportunities to work with the multi-disciplinary PNNL team as well as collaborators in other national labs and universities.
PNNL's GCIMS scientific focus area seeks to improve the understanding of the complex interactions among energy, CMMs, water, land, Earth systems, socioeconomics, and other important human and natural systems at regional to global and near term to decadal scales. GCIMS is also aligned with supporting and contributing to the DOE's Genesis Mission for advancing AI. The GCIMS project develops and uses the GCAM model along with a suite of dedicated, open-source systems models. The scientist will have opportunities to contribute to developing new GCAM capabilities and tools for assisting the research and will be encouraged to develop AI solutions consistent with DOE's Genesis Mission.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Candidates must have received a PhD within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in engineering, economics, public policy, data science, physical sciences, applied mathematics, computational science, or a related discipline.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
  • Proven record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Graduate-level statistical training and substantial programming experience.
  • Proficiency with R, Python, and/or C++ is highly valuable.
  • Experience with, and enthusiasm for, applying evolving AI methodologies to research, modeling, and analysis.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment
Not applicable.
Testing Designated Position
This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).
About PNNL
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!
At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State-the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab's campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.
Commitment to Excellence and Equal Employment Opportunity
Our laboratory is committed to fostering a work environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect while solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. PNNL considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov.
Drug Free Workplace
PNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.
If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn.
Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements
As a national laboratory, PNNL is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require new employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identify Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) Federal risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement thereafter, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment. The tier of federal background investigation required to obtain the PIV credential will be determined by job duties at the time you become eligible for the PIV credential.
Mandatory Requirements
Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a "country of risk" without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.
Rockstar Rewards
Employees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, robust telehealth care options, several mental health benefits, free wellness coaching, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, relocation, backup childcare, legal benefits, supplemental parental bonding leave, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company-funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401 (k) savings plan with company match*. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.
* Research Associates excluded.
**All benefits are dependent upon eligibility.
Click Here For Rockstar Rewards
Notice to Applicants
PNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual's relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.
As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.
Minimum Salary
USD $69,000.00/Yr.
Maximum Salary
USD $119,100.00/Yr.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory logo

About Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a premier research institution based in Richland, Washington, US. Operated by Battelle Memorial Institute under contract to the US Department of Energy (DOE), it is one of the DOE's seventeen national laboratories. PNNL primarily specializes in fields such as environmental science, energy, nuclear science, and national security. Founded in 1965, the lab has since been committed to its core values of integrity, creativity, collaboration, impact, and courage. Their mission is "to transform the world through courageous discovery and innovation." Notable achievements include significant contributions to projects like the Human Genome Project and the development of grid-friendly appliances.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Richland, WA, US

Year founded

1965