Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in the physical sciences, except chemistry and physics. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching, and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

SOC: 25-1051.00

Common Job Titles

Assistant ProfessorAssociate ProfessorGeology ProfessorProfessor

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeSynthesize advanced scientific concepts in atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences for postsecondary instruction across diverse student populations.
  • MindsetModel scientific inquiry and evidence-based reasoning when facilitating classroom discussions and laboratory experiences.
  • KnowledgeDesign curriculum materials and assessment tools integrating pedagogical theory with advanced content knowledge in earth and space sciences.
  • KnowledgeFormulate original research questions and methodologies in atmospheric, marine, or terrestrial systems, securing grant funding and publishing findings.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate student research projects and academic writing applying disciplinary standards in physical sciences, independently.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze geophysical and environmental data using specialized software including ESRI ArcGIS, MATLAB, and geophysical modeling platforms for research and instructional purposes.
  • Hands-onDemonstrate mastery field and laboratory techniques using GPS receivers, seismographs, and optical equipment while supervising student field work.
  • MindsetAdvocate scientific literacy and evidence-based decision making when engaging with public audiences and interdisciplinary academic communities.
  • KnowledgeInterpret complex scientific literature and datasets across physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics to inform interdisciplinary teaching and research.
  • MindsetIntegrate mentorship and professional development strategies when coaching graduate students and junior researchers in scientific communication and career planning.
  • KnowledgeDevelop learning management system courses and multimedia instructional content using Blackboard, collaborative editing platforms, and video production tools to support hybrid and online learning.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

11,480

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$53,310
10% of workers earn the following or more$199,260
Workers on average earn$112,950

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Education and Training4.7/5
  • English Language4.5/5
  • Mathematics4.3/5
  • Physics3.9/5
  • Chemistry3.8/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Adobe AcrobatAdobe After EffectsAdobe PhotoshopESRI ArcGIS softwareGoogle DocsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordThe MathWorks MATLAB

Technology Skills

ACD Systems CanvasAnsys FluentBlackboard LearnBlackboard softwareCGG HampsonRussellCalendar and scheduling softwareCollaborative editing softwareCorel CorelDraw Graphics Suite

Tools & Equipment

Carousel slide projectorsCompact digital camerasCompact disk CD playersComputer data input scannersComputer laser printersConference telephonesDesktop computersDigital calculators