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Numerical Weather Prediction Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The Scientific SME provides part-time, on-call technical reach-back so the program-management team engages the numerical-weather-prediction teams credibly and evaluates transition ...

Position Summary The Scientific SME provides part-time, on-call technical reach-back so the program-management team engages the numerical-weather-prediction teams credibly and evaluates transition ...

Position Summary The Scientific SME provides part-time, on-call technical reach-back so the program-management team engages the numerical-weather-prediction teams credibly and evaluates transition ...

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Numerical Weather Prediction Scientist information

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$37.5K

$122.7K

$196.5K

How much do numerical weather prediction scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for numerical weather prediction scientist in the United States is $122,738.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a numerical weather prediction scientist?

A Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) Scientist is a specialist who develops, improves, and operates computer models to forecast the weather. These scientists use mathematical equations to simulate atmospheric processes and predict future weather patterns based on current observations. They analyze large datasets, optimize model performance, and often collaborate with meteorologists and computer scientists to enhance forecasting accuracy. NWP Scientists play a crucial role in advancing the science and technology behind weather prediction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a numerical weather prediction scientist?

A strong background in atmospheric science, mathematics, and physics, often with a PhD or master's degree, is essential for a Numerical Weather Prediction Scientist. Proficiency in programming languages (such as Python, Fortran, or C++), experience with high-performance computing, and familiarity with modeling systems like WRF or ECMWF are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills that help interpret complex data and work within interdisciplinary teams. These competencies enable accurate weather modeling, drive scientific advancements, and ensure reliable forecasts critical for public safety and decision-making.

What types of collaboration can a numerical weather prediction scientist expect with other teams or departments?

Numerical Weather Prediction Scientists frequently collaborate with meteorologists, data engineers, software developers, and climate researchers. These interactions are essential for integrating new observational data, improving modeling algorithms, and ensuring that weather prediction systems are accurate and reliable. Teamwork is often cross-disciplinary, involving regular meetings to discuss model validation, share results, and troubleshoot complex issues. This collaborative environment not only enhances scientific outcomes but also provides valuable opportunities for professional growth and learning.

What is the difference between Numerical Weather Prediction Scientist vs Meteorologist?

AspectNumerical Weather Prediction ScientistMeteorologist
Required CredentialsDegree in atmospheric science, meteorology, or related field; often requires advanced degreesDegree in meteorology, atmospheric science, or related field; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, supercomputing centers, government agenciesWeather stations, broadcast media, government agencies, private firms
Industry UsageDevelops models and simulations for weather forecastingProvides weather forecasts and analysis to the public and clients

In summary, Numerical Weather Prediction Scientists focus on developing and improving weather models using advanced computing, while Meteorologists interpret these models to deliver forecasts and weather information to the public. Both roles require a strong background in atmospheric sciences but differ in their primary responsibilities and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Numerical Weather Prediction Scientist jobs?

For Numerical Weather Prediction Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Numerical Weather Prediction Scientist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,738 per year, or $59 per hour.

26-120 Numerical Weather and Earth System Prediction Developer

Boulder, CO • On-site

Colorado State University
Education • 5 - 10K employees

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Colorado State University rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

462nd of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Summary:

The individual in this position will be a technical lead for numerical weather and Earth system prediction model development in the context of NOAA's Unified Forecast System (UFS) leveraging the Model for Prediction Across Scales (MPAS) atmospheric dynamical core. They will lead and assist the implementation of new and revised modeling capabilities, infrastructure, and workflows. A particular focus will be on porting modeling system codes to future NOAA research, development, and operational cloud-computing architectures. The individual in this position will also play a leading role in optimizing modeling system components to improve their computational efficiency while maintaining their scientific robustness and in managing the code bases for which GSL - and specifically Physics branch members - are the lead developers and maintainers. This position will report to the Ensemble Prediction Scientist.

Full Consideration Date:

Monday, 9/28/2026, 11:59 pm (MT)

Essential Job Duties:
  • Be a technical lead for numerical weather and Earth system prediction system development, including leading and assisting with the technical implementation of new and revised modeling capabilities, infrastructure, and workflows.
  • Port modeling system codes in support of numerical weather and Earth system prediction systems to NOAA research, development, and operational cloud-computing architectures.
  • In collaboration with model, infrastructure, and physics parameterization developers, develop and implement code optimizations that reduce computational expense while maintaining scientific quality.
  • Lead the code management of the model, infrastructure, and physics parameterization codes for which GSL is the lead developing entity.
Conditions of Employment:

Initially, this position will require onsite presence. If project circumstances allow and with satisfactory performance, up to 2 days per week of telework may be allowed.

This full-time position requires a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI), tier 1 federal background check and a NOAA Common Access Card (CAC) ID badge for systems access. Therefore, only US citizens and lawful permanent residents with a physical USCIS "Green Card" are eligible.

Supervision:

The individual in this position will not supervise employees.

Required Qualifications:
  • A M.S. in Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, or related field
  • At least two years of specialized technical experience developing, building infrastructure to support, and/or maintaining Earth system models.
  • At least three years of experience with Fortran and/or C++, Python, high-performance computing (cloud and/or on-premises), and Linux computing environments.
  • At least three years of experience with version control and the life cycle of complex software.
  • This position requires a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI), tier 1 federal background check and a NOAA Common Access Card (CAC) ID badge for systems access. Therefore, only US citizens and lawful permanent residents with a physical USCIS "Green Card" are eligible.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with state-of-the-art operational and/or research weather prediction systems.
  • Knowledge of cloud-computing environments for scientific applications.
  • Knowledge of best-practices for scientific code development, optimization, and management.
  • Experience communicating technical information, such as through technical reports, evaluations, and assessments, in ways that can be understood and acted upon by scientists and managers.
Salary Range:

Salary Range $100,000 - $115,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience

Background Check Policy Statement

Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.

EEO

Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world.

Prospective Employees, click here to learn more about CSU's perks and purpose. Current employees will need to apply for jobs in Workday.

Employee Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.

Review our detailed benefits information here. Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here. For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator. Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

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About Colorado State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Colorado State University is one of the nation’s top public Tier 1 Research universities and an institution on the rise. Our Ram success is driven by an ambition to be excellent in all we do combined with an unparalleled location that is one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant areas in the country. CSU is a higher education destination for working and learning for faculty, staff, and students from across Colorado, the nation, and around the globe. CSU has produced record enrollment in the past decade, built on all-time highs in student diversity and student success, experienced record fundraising and research expenditures that keep hitting new highs year-after-year, and our faculty are known nationally and internationally for their groundbreaking research. Among other recognition for research and creative scholarship, CSU was recognized in 2022 as one of 10 top research institutions in the world contributing to solving the COVID pandemic. CSU is thriving, with a five-year average enrollment of more than 33,400 students. The record-setting 2022 incoming class of 5,517 students reflects 25% from diverse populations and 24% who were first in their families to attend college. CSU graduates find success with 85% securing a job related to their career plans within six months of graduation. More than nine out of 10 Rams would select CSU again, demonstrating the quality of the campus and learning environments.

Industry

Education

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Collins, CO, US

Year founded

1870

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