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Senior Climate Modeling Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Senior Structural Engineer

Newport, RI · On-site +1

$100K - $160K/yr

Experience with Revit modeling or BIM. * Structural Engineer licensure. We are GEI. Some of the world's most pressing problems - from climate change to sustainable development, to critical ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Newport, RI · On-site

$101K - $137K/yr

Experience with Revit modeling or BIM. * Structural Engineer licensure. We are GEI. Some of the world's most pressing problems - from climate change to sustainable development, to critical ...

Senior Climate Modeling information

What does a senior climate modeler do?

A Senior Climate Modeler is responsible for developing, running, and analyzing advanced climate models to understand and predict changes in Earth's climate. They use complex computer simulations to assess the impact of various factors like greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and ocean currents on climate systems. These professionals often lead research projects, collaborate with scientists across disciplines, and provide critical insights for policymakers and organizations working to address climate change. Their work helps improve climate predictions and informs strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior climate modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Climate Modeler, you need advanced expertise in climate science, numerical modeling, and data analysis, typically backed by a PhD in atmospheric science, meteorology, or a related field. Proficiency with programming languages (such as Python, Fortran, or R), climate modeling software (like WRF, CESM, or GCMs), and high-performance computing is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication of complex results make professionals stand out in this field. These skills are vital for developing accurate climate projections, informing policy, and advancing scientific understanding of climate change.

How do senior climate modelers typically collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on large-scale research projects?

Senior Climate Modelers often work closely with scientists from fields such as oceanography, atmospheric science, and data analytics to develop comprehensive climate simulations. They play a key role in integrating diverse datasets, providing technical expertise, and translating complex model outputs for non-specialist stakeholders. Effective collaboration requires strong communication skills and a willingness to bridge knowledge gaps between disciplines, which can be both challenging and highly rewarding as it leads to more robust and impactful research findings.

What is the difference between Senior Climate Modeling vs Climate Data Analyst?

AspectSenior Climate ModelingClimate Data Analyst
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in climate science, meteorology, or related fields; experience with modeling softwareBachelor's or master's in environmental science, data analysis, or related fields; proficiency in data tools
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government agencies, or environmental organizations; focus on developing modelsData-focused roles in similar settings; analyze climate data for trends and reports
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, government agencies, NGOsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions

While both roles involve climate data, Senior Climate Modeling focuses on developing complex climate models and simulations, requiring advanced technical skills. Climate Data Analysts interpret existing data sets to identify trends and support decision-making. The roles differ mainly in scope and technical depth but share a common industry environment and credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Climate Modeling jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Climate Modeling jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Climate Modeling jobs in Rhode Island?

For Senior Climate Modeling jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Climate Modeling jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Climate Modeling jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Senior Climate Modeling jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Senior Climate Modeling job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Climate Modeling job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

Water Resources Project Manager - Hydrology/Hydraulics

Providence, RI • On-site

VHB
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

$145K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


VHB rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview

ABOUT THE POSITION

Senior Water Resources Engineer - Lead Cutting-Edge Hydraulics & Resiliency Projects Across New England

VHB's Water Resources group is rapidly expanding across New England, and we're seeking a senior-level Water Resources Engineer with deep hydraulics and hydrology expertise to help lead our high-performing team. As climate change happens it drives more frequent and intense weather/storm events, our clients are turning to VHB to deliver technically rigorous, resilient, and future-ready water resources solutions-and you can be at the center of that work.

Ideally based in the Greater Boston area, we would consider someone based in any of our New England offices. In this highly visible role, you'll be a trusted technical leader and strategic advisor to public and private clients, developing innovative and cost-effective solutions to complex riverine and coastal flooding, ecological restoration, and water resources challenges. You'll apply advanced H&H analysis and modeling on projects that span site to watershed scale, working alongside an integrated network of experienced water resources professionals across the region.

Responsibilities

  • Leading multi-disciplinary projects with hydrologic, hydraulic, and resiliency focus including interaction with staff and clients
  • Conducting hydrologic, hydraulic and scour studies for riverine and coastal environments using current modeling software including HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, HydroCAD, HY-8, EPA SWMM, SRH-2D/SMS, CHAMP, and others
  • Using analysis to identify and design flood, scour and resiliency improvements including both hardened features and nature based solutions and living shorelines
  • Performing FEMA "no-rise" analyses and assisting clients with FEMA map revisions
  • Developing technical reports, design plans, construction documents, and specifications for water resources related projects
  • Leading the construction administration for water resource projects
  • Work with VHB's integrated team to evaluate permit requirements and support the development of permit applications
  • Attend and present at meetings with clients, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders
  • Lead the development of project proposals, scopes of work and fee estimates
  • Mentoring and expanding the technical resources of our staff

Skills and Abilities

  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Team-oriented with strong capability to motivate others
  • Must demonstrate superior ability in collaborative problem solving with stakeholders, clients, and teammates
  • Advanced understanding of hydrologic and hydraulic modeling programs, and the ability to select an apply to appropriate approach to solve our client's problem
  • Experience and interest in staff development
  • Understanding of local, state, and federal permitting

Qualifications

  • A minimum of 11+ years experience in related water resource engineering and analysis required
  • BS in Civil/Environmental Engineering (a master's degree may be substituted for 2 years of experience)
  • PE license 

*This high priority role offers an exclusive sign-on bonus*

The full-time annual base salary range for this position is $145,000 to $200,000. The base salary offered will be determined based on job-related factors, including geographic location, internal equity, experience, credentials, skills, education, work schedule, and other factors permitted by law. The posted salary range reflects base pay only. Additional compensation and benefits available to eligible employees are outlined in our Total Rewards Program. 

Annual base salary is one component of VHB's Total Rewards package. In addition to base pay, eligible employees may receive annual incentive compensation bonuses, spot bonuses, and merit-based salary increases, providing opportunities to increase earnings beyond base pay. VHB also offers a differentiating work experience, including a comprehensive benefits package that includes eligibility to participate in the VHB 401(k) plan, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, wellness programs, tuition reimbursement, and recognition programs. 

Details on VHB's benefits package can be found here: Benefits Checklist  

VHB has been named a U.S. Best Managed Company for 2026, marking its second consecutive year receiving this prestigious recognition. VHB, was honored for excellence in strategy, execution, corporate culture, and governance/financial performance. Sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal

  

Building what's next, together.

Our people make the difference. We foster a technology-empowered, peopledriven, futureready culture where agility, innovation, and collaboration shape how we work every day.

 

When you join VHB, you'll find:

  • Meaningful work on complex projects with real community impact
  • A collaborative, inclusive culture that values curiosity and shared success
  • Support to grow your skills and lead through change
  • Learning and development supported by evolving tools and technologies, including AI
  • Best-in-class benefits and a flexible, hybrid work environment

We're growing across the East Coast and are consistently recognized as a great place to work. Ready to shape what's next? Learn more about what sets our employee experience apart and connect with us.  

 

VHB is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. Since our founding, we have intentionally fostered a culture of inclusion and belonging, supported by deep-rooted core values, one of which is diversity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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