Air Quality Scientist

ORGANIZATION

PSE Healthy Energy is an independent science and policy research institute focused on producing science-based energy and climate solutions that protect public health and the environment. Our team includes experts in science, engineering, and public health working across five key practice areas: Clean Energy Transition, Environmental Public Health, Climate, Energy Equity, and Oil and Gas. We design our research around real-world challenges, proactively connecting our audiences with actionable, evidence-based information they can trust.

POSITION

PSE Healthy Energy is seeking a full-time Scientist, I to collaborate with our scientific team in evaluating the environmental and public health impacts of energy systems. The role focuses on assessing how energy choices affect outdoor and indoor air quality, with applications spanning oil and gas, petrochemical sectors, electricity transmission and distribution, gas- and coal-fired power generation, carbon management, and clean energy transitions.

The position requires independent work, creativity, initiative, and collaboration while thinking strategically about complex scientific research and issues related to energy and energy policy, renewable energy, public health, and the environment. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in meteorological models, chemical-transport models, dispersion models, and experience at the science-policy interface, contributing to PSE’s mission of delivering rigorous, policy-relevant research. Success in this role will be measured by the ability to produce high-impact scientific research, effectively translate findings for policy and community stakeholders, and drive innovative solutions in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.

ROLES And RESPONSIBILITIES

• Air Quality Modeling: Develop and apply air quality, meteorological, and dispersion modeling tools across diverse energy-related applications, validating and interpreting model results to assess environmental impacts.
• Data Analysis: Manage large atmospheric and emissions datasets, performing data extraction, organization, cleaning, analysis, and interpretation with meticulous attention to detail, including policy analysis and review of published literature, to support research objectives.
• Programming: Utilize programming tools (e.g., Python, R, or equivalent) in Linux/Unix environments, including shell scripting, for data processing, statistical analysis, visualization, and optimization of computational workflows.
• Quality and Timeliness: Produce work deliverables on schedule that meet professional standards and organizational expectations.
• Scientific Communication: Effectively communicate research progress and findings through team meetings, technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, oral presentations, and other professional formats to inform policy and stakeholder decision-making, while providing and receiving constructive feedback to enhance team outcomes.
• Stakeholder Support: Provide technical assistance to diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, communities, and organizations, synthesizing and communicating data across multiple stakeholder settings and engaging externally at the science-policy interface to translate scientific findings into actionable outcomes.
• Project Contributions: Contribute to multiple projects by conducting independent research, independently determining approaches to their own work and processes, applying analytical and creative problem-solving to address complex scientific and policy challenges from multiple perspectives, and adapting to evolving priorities in a remote work environment while demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning.
• Project Support and Mentorship: Assist in coordinating projects by providing guidance and mentorship to team members and earlier-career staff as needed, fostering collaboration and supporting project goals, with mentorship encouraged but not required.
• Fundraising Support: Support fundraising initiatives by contributing scientific expertise to grant proposals and stakeholder engagement efforts.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• A doctoral degree in atmospheric science, environmental science, engineering, or related fields, or a Master’s degree with 3+ years of work experience.
• Expertise in dispersion, meteorological, or chemical-transport models (e.g., AERMOD, WRF, WRF-Chem, WRF-CMAQ).
• Proficiency working in Linux/Unix environments and in scientific programming (e.g., Python, R) for data analysis, visualization, and workflow optimization.
• Experience managing and interpreting large atmospheric datasets, including statistical analysis.
• Research synthesis, including policy analysis and review of published literature.
• Ability to manage independent projects while maintaining alignment with broader team goals and adapting to evolving priorities.
• Excellent communication skills across scientific and policy contexts, with experience at the science-policy and/or regulatory interface.
• Strong communication and conflict resolution skills to collaborate across disciplines, provide and receive constructive feedback, and balance rigorous science with stakeholder needs.
• A sense of humor and enthusiasm for impactful, collaborative work.
  
  

Desired Skills

• Experience with cloud computing platforms (e.g., Amazon Web Services) and software best practices and version control (e.g., Github).
• Knowledge of the health hazards, risks, and impacts of air pollution, including familiarity with conducting health risk or impact assessments.
• Experience with AI and machine learning applications in environmental science or atmospheric research.
• Experience with Google Workspace (Gmail, Google Docs, etc.), communication tools like Slack, and project management tools like Asana.
• Ability to speak, read, and write fluently in two or more languages is a plus.
  
  

LOCATION and WORK CONDITIONS

Remote within the United States. Extended or irregular work hours will be required during project sprints or rollouts. Position requires computer usage and sitting for extended periods of time, good hand-eye coordination, arm, hand, and finger dexterity, including ability to grasp, and visual acuity to use a keyboard, operate equipment and read technical information. Overall mobility is essential.

COMPENSATION And BENEFITS

• Competitive Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications. (Range: $89,000-$102,000)
• Health Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with employer match.
• Flexible spending accounts
• Flexible time off and 15 Paid holidays
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued education and training.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours and remote work options.
  
  

TO APPLY

Please submit a resume or CV and provide a cover letter and provide any relevant certifications in the online portal. Applications received by November 7, 2025 will be given priority review. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

PSE Healthy Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity and expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

E-VERIFY NOTICE

PSE Healthy Energy participates in E-Verify. We will provide the Social Security Administration, and if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security, with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. Please note that we do not use this information to pre-screen job applicants.