Climatologist II

The State of South Carolina is seeking a Climatologist II to address drought, water conservation, and climate variability issues. Responsibilities include monitoring drought conditions, contributing to the U.S. Drought Monitor, conducting research, and managing outreach programs. A master's degree in climatology or related fields is required, along with relevant experience. The position is full-time, based in West Columbia, SC, with a salary range of $46,655 - $86,321 annually.
Salary: $46,655.00 - $86,321.00 Annually
Location : Richland County, SC
Job Type: FTE - Full-Time
Job Number: 170169
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
Division: Land and Water Conservation District
Opening Date: 03/03/2025
Closing Date: 4/3/2025 5:00 PM Eastern
Agency Specific Application Procedures:: All applicants must apply online.
Class Code:: LC50
Position Number:: 61096309
Normal Work Schedule:: Monday - Friday (8:30 - 5:00)
Pay Band: Band 6
Hiring Range - Min.: $56,451.00
Hiring Range - Max.: $66,488.00
Opening Date: 10/21/2024
EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer
Veteran Preference Statement: South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

Job Responsibilities
This employee will be responsible for addressing statewide issues related to drought, water conservation, and climate variability to improve adaptation and mitigation outcomes in affected sectors through the development and implementation of policies, plans, and programs.

Job Duties Include:
• Monitoring, recording, and distributing data necessary for determination of drought conditions affecting the state and providing weekly contributions to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
• Serving as the U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) focal point for the state and contributing weekly to the update process of the USDM by interpreting climatic data and analyzing impact reports and providing a representative assessment of the intensity of drought conditions across the state.
• Assisting the SC State Climatologist in the coordination of state-level drought management and administration of the Drought Response Committee.
• Conducting research in the field of water resources with potential applications to hydrological modeling, climate forecasting, and water resources management.
• Seeking out and developing funding mechanisms and preparing grant funding proposals for drought, climate variability, and water conservation outreach and education.
• Assisting in maintaining the State Climate Office Outreach Program.
• Fostering effective communications, outreach and partnering with sectors impacted by droughts such as agriculture, forestry, and natural resources.
• Remaining engaged with weather and climate professional organizations.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

A master's degree in climatology, meteorology, or geography with one (1) year of related experience; or a bachelor's degree in climatology, meteorology, or geography with three (3) years of related experience.
Preferred Qualifications

Advanced knowledge of computer programs such as Word, Power Point and Excel. Experience with GIS programming. Programming in R, Python or other languages preferred. Strong communication skills both written and verbal.
Benefits for State Employees
The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.

Insurance Benefits
Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance, which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. Other available insurance benefits include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.

Retirement Benefits
State employees are also offered retirement plan options, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the South Carolina Deferred Compensation Program, which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.

Workplace Benefits
State employees may also be eligible for other benefits, including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.

Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.
01

Are you currently employed with SCDNR?
• Yes
• No

02

Do you have AT LEAST a master's degree in climatology, meteorology, or geography AND one (1) year of related experience OR a bachelor's degree in climatology, meteorology, or geography AND three (3) years of related experience?
• Yes
• No

Required Question