Climate Change Policy Analysts
O*NET 19-2041.01 · SOC 19-2041
Climate Change Policy Analyst is a solid career choice. Median pay is $82k a year with +6.1% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 7,300 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Analyze proposed legislation for its impact on greenhouse gas emissions
- →Review scientific climate data to inform government policy recommendations
- →Write policy briefs summarizing climate risks for decision makers
- →Evaluate the effectiveness of existing carbon reduction programs
- →Coordinate with stakeholders to develop climate adaptation strategies
Education & How to Get In
Climate Change Policy Analyst roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Climate Change Policy Analyst involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Climate Change Policy Analyst?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Climate Change Policy Analyst Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Climate Change Policy Analysts is projected to grow 6.1% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·30% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·41% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Climate Change Policy Analyst make?
The median Climate Change Policy Analyst earns $82k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Climate Change Policy Analyst jobs?
Our model puts Climate Change Policy Analyst at 32 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 30% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; 41% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Climate Change Policy Analyst a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 6.1% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 7,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Climate Change Policy Analyst?
Climate Change Policy Analyst roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Climate Change Policy Analyst?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Climate Change Policy Analyst career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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