Pacific Institute Seeks Research Specialist, Water & Climate Equity | Remote U.S. | USD $80,000–$95,000

Professionals with a passion for water sustainability, climate resilience, and environmental justice now have an exciting opportunity to join the Pacific Institute as a Research Specialist, Water & Climate Equity. This full-time remote role is designed for experienced researchers who want to contribute to long-term, high-impact projects addressing some of the world’s most pressing water and climate challenges.

Offering a competitive annual salary of USD $80,000–$95,000, the position provides the chance to work alongside scientists, policymakers, community organizations, and research partners dedicated to creating equitable and sustainable water solutions across the United States.

About Pacific Institute

Founded in 1987, the Pacific Institute is a globally recognized water think tank committed to advancing sustainable water management through research, science, and collaboration. The organization works with governments, businesses, NGOs, utilities, and frontline communities to develop innovative solutions that improve water security and climate resilience.

Its Water and Climate Equity Program focuses specifically on the relationship between water insecurity, climate change, and social inequality, producing research and practical tools that help vulnerable communities adapt to changing environmental conditions.

About the Research Specialist Role

The successful candidate will serve as a mid-career research professional responsible for supporting multi-year research initiatives focused on water and climate equity in the United States.

Rather than emphasizing policy advocacy or communications, this role is ideal for individuals who enjoy conducting rigorous research, managing complex projects, analyzing large datasets, and producing high-quality publications.

The position also offers flexibility through Pacific Institute’s remote-first work environment, allowing qualified professionals residing in the United States to work from home while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities

The Research Specialist will contribute across several important areas, including:

• Conducting applied research using qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing environmental and climate data.
• Performing literature reviews and landscape assessments.
• Preparing technical reports, research papers, policy briefs, and presentations.
• Translating complex scientific findings into accessible resources for policymakers and community partners.
• Coordinating research projects, timelines, and deliverables.
• Supporting grant proposals and reporting to funding organizations.
• Collaborating with external research institutions and representing Pacific Institute at conferences and stakeholder meetings.

Required Qualifications

Applicants should possess substantial experience in applied environmental research. Pacific Institute is seeking candidates who meet the following requirements:

• Minimum of 7 years of professional applied research experience related to water, climate, environmental science, or environmental justice.
• Master’s degree with a thesis in a relevant discipline.
• At least 4 years of continuous employment with one organization.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working on U.S. water and climate issues with American agencies, organizations, or frontline communities.
• Strong experience using qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Demonstrated publication record, including at least two lead-author peer-reviewed publications.
• Excellent technical writing, communication, project coordination, and fundraising support skills.

Preferred Qualifications

While not mandatory, candidates with the following expertise will stand out:

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Advanced data analysis tools
• QDA software
• Nature-based solutions
• Water affordability research
• Public health
• Climate resilience
• Indigenous or Tribal community engagement
• Decision-support tool development and data visualization.

Salary and Benefits

Pacific Institute offers a highly competitive compensation package that includes:

• Annual salary ranging from USD $80,000 to $95,000
• Health insurance
• Dental coverage
• Institute-matched retirement plan
• Paid vacation
• Additional employee benefits based on experience and geographic location.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

• A cover letter explaining their interest and qualifications.
• A Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) statement.
• An updated CV or resume.
• Evidence of publication history and Master’s thesis title.
• A published peer-reviewed writing sample between five and ten pages.

Recruitment Process

Qualified applicants can expect the following hiring stages:

• Application review
• HR phone screening
• First panel interview
• Second panel interview
• Reference checks
• Employment offer.

Why This Opportunity Matters

The demand for professionals skilled in climate science, environmental justice, and sustainable water management continues to grow as governments and organizations invest in climate resilience initiatives.

This role provides researchers with the opportunity to contribute directly to evidence-based solutions that influence national water policy, improve community resilience, and address environmental inequities. Individuals who enjoy long-term research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and meaningful environmental impact will find this position particularly rewarding.

With competitive pay, flexible remote work, and the chance to work alongside internationally respected experts, the Pacific Institute’s Research Specialist, Water & Climate Equity position represents an outstanding career opportunity for experienced environmental researchers committed to creating lasting positive change.

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