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Sustainability Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WI · On-site

$79.93 - $125.60/hr

You have completed University or High School education in Industrial Engineering, Energy Engineering, Sustainable Energy Technology, Climate Studies, Business Administration, Sustainability Science ...

Sustainability Leader

Columbus, OH · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

The Sustainability leader will design the program architecture, establish supplier engagement and ... Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) Goal Development and Execution * Lead the development of ...

The Department of Earth, Environmental and Sustainability Sciences (EESC) offers degrees in ... DUTIES OF THE POSITION: Part-time positions teaching introductory courses in Environmental Science ...

The Department of Earth, Environmental and Sustainability Sciences (EESC) offers degrees in ... DUTIES OF THE POSITION: Part-time positions teaching introductory courses in Environmental Science ...

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sustainability science information

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$42.5K

$122.6K

$138.5K

How much do sustainability science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for sustainability science in the United States is $122,624.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,500.00 and $138,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sustainability science?

Sustainability science is an interdisciplinary field that studies the interactions between natural and social systems, with the goal of promoting long-term environmental health, economic viability, and social well-being. It seeks to understand how human activity affects the environment and how societies can develop in ways that are sustainable for future generations. Practitioners in this field work on issues like climate change, resource management, and sustainable development policies, often collaborating across scientific, policy, and community boundaries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sustainability scientist?

To thrive as a Sustainability Scientist, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of environmental science, and at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, GIS software, and sustainability assessment frameworks such as LEED or ISO 14001 is often required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration abilities help you translate scientific findings into practical solutions. These competencies are crucial for developing effective sustainability strategies and driving positive environmental change.

How do sustainability scientists typically collaborate with other departments or stakeholders within an organization?

Sustainability scientists often work closely with diverse teams such as engineering, operations, corporate social responsibility, and executive leadership to integrate sustainable practices across projects. They facilitate cross-functional meetings, translate scientific research into actionable strategies, and help set measurable sustainability goals. Effective communication and stakeholder engagement are key, as these professionals must align varied interests and ensure that sustainability initiatives support both environmental and organizational objectives.

What is the difference between Sustainability Science vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectSustainability ScienceEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically a master's or PhD in sustainability, environmental science, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in environmental science, biology, or chemistry
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, policy organizations, interdisciplinary teamsGovernment agencies, labs, environmental consulting firms, fieldwork
Industry UsageFocuses on sustainable development, policy, and systems thinkingFocuses on environmental impact assessments, conservation, and compliance

While both roles involve environmental considerations, Sustainability Science emphasizes developing sustainable solutions and policies through interdisciplinary research, whereas Environmental Scientists focus on analyzing environmental conditions and impacts. The two careers often overlap but differ mainly in scope and approach.

What are careers in sustainability science?

Careers in sustainability science involve researching and developing solutions to environmental, social, and economic challenges to promote sustainable development. Common roles include sustainability analyst, environmental consultant, and research scientist, often requiring knowledge of environmental policies, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

What can you do with a sustainability science degree?

A sustainability science degree prepares individuals for careers in environmental consulting, policy analysis, research, and management roles focused on sustainable development and resource conservation. Graduates often work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies, utilizing skills in data analysis, environmental assessment, and project management. Certifications in environmental management or GIS tools can enhance job prospects in this field.

What do sustainability scientists do?

Sustainability scientists research environmental, social, and economic systems to develop solutions for sustainable development. They analyze data, create models, and collaborate across disciplines to address issues like climate change, resource management, and pollution. Their work often involves fieldwork, data analysis, and policy recommendations to promote long-term environmental health.
More about sustainability science jobs

What cities are hiring for Sustainability Science jobs?

Cities with the most Sustainability Science job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Sustainability Science jobs?

The most popular types of Sustainability Science jobs are:

What states have the most Sustainability Science jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sustainability Science jobs include:

Infographic showing various Sustainability Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,624 per year, or $59 per hour.

Postdoctoral Associate, Center for Sustainability Science and Strategy

MIT Human Resources

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE, Center for Sustainability Science and Strategy, (two openings) in a multi-disciplinary team developing a new framework for exploring the multi-sector implications of decarbonization pathways. The postdoctoral associates will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of economists, energy / land / water / air / infrastructure modelers, climate scientists, social scientists, statisticians and software engineers to develop and apply flexible, modular, multi-sector, cross-scale human-climate-impacts modeling framework to advance understanding of multi-sector feedbacks and implications of different decarbonization pathways under uncertainty. Will contribute to one or more of the following areas: advancing methods and computational techniques for human systems models, sectoral impact models, and related Earth system models; or developing, implementing, and testing approaches for integrating model components within the broader modeling framework (e.g. efficient and flexible model linkages, feedbacks, coupling); or advancing and applying individual/coupled model components to provide actionable information to advance energy and decarbonization planning. Will be expected to work closely with a sub-team as well as collaborate with the broader full team.


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About MIT Human Resources

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Our mission is to advance a vibrant and diverse work community where individuals and groups thrive and contribute to MIT's excellence. We offer Support, Services, and Programs to enhance your work life. We're here to help. MIT is committed to helping employees achieve a healthy balance between their careers and the full lives they lead off-campus. Explore all of MIT's Work & Life resources, including MyLife Services, which provides 24/7 access to a network of experts available to help with life’s challenges.

Industry

Human resource programs administration

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

2014