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What Is a Climate Change Analyst?

April 14, 2024

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A climate change analyst consults with another professional in an office

Understanding and communicating the impact of climate change are critical steps in facing this global issue. Climate change analysts explore the causes, consequences, and potential solutions of climate change as part of a global community. Those interested in a career in this essential role would do well to explore its responsibilities, salary expectations, and educational requirements.

The Role of a Climate Change Analyst

Also known as climatologists, climate change analysts collaborate across many scientific fields to analyze climate change policy developments and promote a greater understanding of climate change. These professionals study both the causes and effects of climate change, while also exploring ways to reverse its causes and impacts. Many also work to inform the public and key stakeholders of recent findings.

Analysts can specialize in a particular area or work more generally across the field. For example, an analyst can specialize in policy, working with policymakers and viewing relevant data on a large scale. Analysts who specialize in the scientific aspects of the field, on the other hand, spend more time modeling scientific data and performing research.

Essential Climate Change Analyst Responsibilities

While the specific responsibilities of a climate change analyst are determined by the specific organization and focus of the role, many analysts assume the following responsibilities.

Collaborating with other climate researchers
Reviewing published research on climate change
Reviewing and advising on policies that are related to or impact climate change
Performing short- and long-term research on climate conditions
Compiling research on findings
Presenting findings to fellow researchers, the public, and key policymakers

While many analysts work in office and laboratory research settings, some may be called to travel to conduct research in various field locations. Analysts must be willing to work flexibly, as organizations explore new methods of researching, documenting, and promoting awareness of climate change findings.

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Salary Expectations of a Climate Change Analyst

Salaries vary for researchers, analysts, and scientists in the field of climate change. According to the compensation website Payscale, the average base salary for environmental scientists was about $58,500 per year as of October 2023. Experienced analysts tend to earn more, and salary ranges can change based on the type and location of the work.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) found the number of job openings for environmental scientists and specialists in the United States are expected to grow by approximately 6 percent between 2022 and 2032. This is slightly higher than the average job growth for the U.S. employment market as a whole during that time period.

How to Become a Climate Change Analyst

Prospective analysts must complete the required education and possess the relevant skills to succeed in this crucial climate career path. Those interested in working in climatology should review the following steps to pursue analyst positions in climate change.

Required Education

Climate change analysts are scientific experts who need to understand how to research climate change and communicate that research to a broad audience. The field requires a bachelor’s degree in a scientific field, such as environmental science, to qualify for entry-level positions.

Many analysts go on to pursue a graduate degree in a related field. A Master of Public Health in Disaster Management (MPH DM), for example, equips analysts to become leaders in their areas of research, climate change awareness, and disaster communication. Climate change analysts may also choose to pursue certification if needed.

Relevant Skills

In addition to educational requirements, analysts who specialize in climate change must be able to perform the essential duties of the position. Here are some relevant skills necessary to accomplish the responsibilities of the role.

Innovative problem-solving skills: Climate change is a multifaceted problem, so analysts must not only explore innovative solutions to climate change issues, but also explore ways to communicate findings to various stakeholders.
Interpersonal skills: Communicating with other scientists, policymakers, managers, and the general public is often required of analysts. Polished written and verbal communication are essential.
Technical knowledge: Climate change professionals must have a specialized understanding of the science behind climatology, research methods, and data collection techniques.
Attention to detail: Small changes in data can have large consequences in the field, so analysts must carefully review all data and professional communication with attention to detail.
Analytical skills: Climate change analysts will likely review policies or materials that contain complex climate information. They should be able to understand and synthesize information from these materials to develop relevant strategies and solutions.

These are some of the basic skills to succeed as an analyst, but specialist positions require additional areas of expertise. Analysts who are considering becoming managers or directors of departments, for example, also need to exhibit strong leadership and management skills. Some analysts take on educational roles at universities or in community workshop settings, requiring teaching skills.

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The MPH DM program covers 42 credits exploring the scientific method, public health perspectives, and community-focused disaster communication. Learn how you can advance in your career as an analyst, or transition from public health to climate change research with Tulane University.