System Dynamics Modeler

Position Summary

A System Dynamics Modeler at Climate Interactive is responsible for developing and testing system dynamics computer simulations of climate and energy policy issues, carrying out analyses, and engaging clients and stakeholders in model simulations.

This position would be a great fit for someone who would like to apply their experience and training in modeling and simulation to tackle one of the most pressing challenges of our time. The ideal candidate will thrive when working closely with an interdisciplinary team at the intersection of science and policy on fast-moving and impactful projects aimed at a wide variety of audiences. 

About Climate Interactive

Climate Interactive is a not-for-profit organization with global reach that creates and shares tools that drive effective and equitable climate action. Our tools make complex systems understandable so that decision-makers, NGOs, and citizens can understand how to best address climate change globally.

If you feel passionate about making a lasting, positive impact on climate change, this might be the role for you.

Together with MIT’s Sloan School of Management, Climate Interactive builds real-time, interactive simulators using system dynamics to help leaders understand the impact of various scenarios and policy decisions on global temperature rise. The goal of these products is to support decision-making and bring transparency and education to people at all levels.

To date, Climate Interactive's simulators have been used by over 520,00 people in 131 countries, ranging from heads of state to investment professionals to students. In fact, the Obama Administration and the Chinese Government used Climate Interactive’s C-ROADS simulator to help secure the 2014 US-China bilateral deal that set up the Paris Agreement. Since then, we have briefed over 130 members of the U.S. Congress to support the historic passage of the IRA bill, and have engaged more than 4,300 decision makers worldwide. Additionally, Climate Interactive has been named the "Top US Energy and Environment Think Tank."

As we look at the timeline and mission of limiting global temperature rise, the news is often bleak and discouraging. Climate Interactive’s simulators bring clarity and insight grounded in science to a field that has been riddled with ambiguity. Ultimately, we show people why there is reason to hope, and how to get there.

Are you a mission-oriented leader who likes to build world-class models and applications with a great team? Look no further.

Job Responsibilities

Modeling & Documentation

• Create, test, improve, and document system dynamics models
• Analyze scenarios using system dynamics models and produce charts, slide decks, and/or reports describing model structure and results
• Effectively engage internal and external stakeholders around simulation and analytic insights
• Support dissemination of insights by writing and editing relevant engagement materials (e.g., blog posts, website text, journal articles, etc.)

Project & Task Management

• Effectively develop and deliver work product in a highly collaborative modeling environment
• Use work time efficiently and utilize available resources to effectively manage priorities and handle multiple assignments at once
• Lead delivery of projects on-time and within scope
• Help to improve project processes and procedures to ensure deliverables are high-impact and completed in a timely manner
• Identify potential projects and/or barriers and takes initiative to resolve with appropriate support and resources

Organizational Contributions

• Consistently look for ways to help Climate Interactive deliver on its mission
• Actively participate in meetings on strategy and business development
• Communicate effectively and work well with others to accomplish common goals
• Produce verbal and written communications that are professional, clear, and concise
• Support and cultivate strong relationships with external stakeholders and partners

Experience

Experience in:

• Building and testing models and analyzing scenarios using system dynamics methods
• Analyzing large datasets and producing models of associated outputs that are clear and understandable to the general public
• Building dynamic hypotheses with stakeholders, including causal loop and stock/flow diagramming

Required minimum technical capabilities include direct experience with modeling software such as Vensim (preferred), Stella, PowerSim, and/or Python.

Understanding of climate change, economic development, and environmental science and policy required. 

Advanced degrees preferred but not required.

Reporting Structure

The System Dynamics Modeler reports to the Director of Modeling & Technology

Location

Remote. Outside of the U.S. possible, with the need to coordinate with the East Coast US time zone. Preference for Asheville, NC, or Boston, MA area, USA. Climate Interactive has been a remote-first organization for over a decade.

Compensation

Climate Interactive offers a generous compensation package for this role. For employees eligible to work in the United States, the compensation includes:

• Minimum base salary of $90,000 - $115,000, with exact compensation varying based on skills, experience, and location
• 100% employer-paid health, dental, and vision insurance, including premiums and deductibles
• 3% automatic employer-paid retirement contribution (401K) plus up to an additional 3% match on employee contributions (401K or Roth IRA)
• Short- and long-term disability and life insurance
• Generous vacation, health, holiday, and leave policies

Overtime Status

Exempt; full-time

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter. In your cover letter, please include a brief description of between 1-3 projects relevant to the responsibilities of the Systems Dynamics Modeler which you either led or contributed to in recent years. 

Hiring Statement 

Climate Interactive is a project of New Venture Fund (NVF), a 501(c)(3) public charity that incubates new and innovative public-interest projects and grant-making programs. NVF is committed to attracting, developing and retaining exceptional people, and to creating a work environment that is dynamic, rewarding and enables each of us to realize our potential. NVF's work environment is safe and open to all employees and partners, respecting the full spectrum of race, color, religious creed, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, political affiliation, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and all other classifications protected by law in the locality and/or state in which you are working.

COVID-19 Policy

To center the safety and well-being of its employees, New Venture Fund requires that any employee who is required to conduct in-person activities for their job must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 within four weeks of their start date. This position may require candidates to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Accommodations may be sought and approved in accordance with the law by contacting human resources at HR@newventurefund.org.