CPAESS Project Scientist I

Job Description Summary :

UCAR is excited to announce the job opening for the CPAESS Project Scientist I role working with NOAA’s Quantitative Observing Systems Assessment Program (QOSAP).

This position will research to improve the use of radio occultation observations to improve global weather prediction. The incumbent will develop, implement, and test improved assimilation algorithms for radio occultation observations into NOAA’s operational models, emphasizing improving assimilation algorithms, quality control procedures, and observation error characteristics.

They will also be responsible for conducting numerical weather prediction experiments, interpreting the results, presenting findings at scientific meetings, and contributing to publishing results in scientific journals, as needed.

CPAESS serves the Earth System Science community in three distinct areas of service. We partner with federal agencies and businesses to hire critical scientific staff enabling a more robust workforce.

Through our scientific programs, we seek to edify new research with our postdoctoral programs in collaboration with our visiting scientists, internship programs, and interagency support programs.

We also help build the Earth system science community by planning summer schools, institutes, conferences, and advisory committees.

Position Details : Visa Sponsored Job :

Visa Sponsored Job :

Relocation Assistance Eligible :

Job Location : Boulder, Colorado

Boulder, Colorado

Position Type & Term :

Full time, Regular

Compensation Range : $92,103 - $115,128

$92,103 - $115,128

Final salary and rates are based on education, experience, and skills relevant to the role.*

Application Notes

Application Deadline : This position will be posted until Friday, August 2. Applications will not be accepted past this date.

Required application materials (preferably in PDF Format) :

Resume

Cover Letter - Please address the following topics in your cover letter (for more information, please refer to the Key Responsibilities and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities sections of this job posting) :

Numerical Weather Forecasting Systems

Discuss your experience utilizing and working with numerical weather forecasting systems to generate accurate weather predictions.

Data Assimilation Systems

Describe your experience with data assimilation systems, how you ensure the accuracy and reliability of assimilated data, and your approach to integrating various data sources for weather prediction purposes.

Programming Languages

Outline your proficiency in programming languages you’ve used in the past as well as how you prioritize learning new programming languages or improving your skills in existing ones.

Federal Screening and Background checks are conducted for candidates selected for hire. Learn more.

Work Authorization / Visa Sponsorship : Not available. You must be (a) a current U.S. Citizen; (b) lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States;

or (c) a protected individual as defined by 8 USC1324b(a)(3).

Work Location : This position is open to candidates seeking in-person, hybrid (combination of in-person and remote), and fully remote opportunities.

Regardless of flexible work arrangements, UCAR requires ALL positions to be performed within the U.S., excluding U.S. Territories.

What You Will Do

Here is a summary of what one would expect to be generally responsible for in this role.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and test improvements to numerical algorithms, related to the assimilation of radio occultation observations in NOAA’s models.

Conduct observing system experiments (OSEs) and observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs) to quantify and optimize the impact of radio occultation to improve numerical weather prediction.

Conduct numerical weather prediction experiments and interpret results.

Author and present scientific reports and publications and attend / give presentations at national or international scientific conferences.

Who We'd Love To Join Our Team

Education & Experience

A Ph.D. in atmospheric science or a related field with knowledge of numerical weather prediction, data assimilation, remote sensing, and statistical analysis.

Desired, but not required :

Experience with data denial experiments and radio occultation technology.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Skill in computation and statistical analysis.

Knowledge of numerical weather prediction.

Knowledge of remote sensing.

Ability to work independently in a scientific research environment and as part of a team / larger group performing collaborative research.

Strong organization and detail-oriented in planning and managing project goals and objectives.

Ability to contribute in a large collaborative environment.

Excellent interpersonal skills.

Excellent oral and written communication skills with an emphasis on technical communication.

Benefits Overview

UCAR affirms its commitment to employees through competitive benefits. In addition to medical, dental, vision, retirement, and life insurance, UCAR offers a variety of programs focused on work-life balance and professional, and personal development. These include :

Tuition Assistance, time off allowance to attend classes, and other professional development opportunities

UCAR contributes 10% of your eligible pay into your retirement account; 100% fully vested on day one

Starting minimum accrual of 20 days of personal time off each year(prorated for less than full-time positions)

10 paid holidays

10 days of sick leave each year

12 weeks of paid parental leave

Short-term medical leave paid at 100% of your regular salary

EcoPass for local Colorado residents to use the Denver and Boulder-area transit system at no cost

Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Our organization is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment and fostering a culture where everyone feels welcome and supported.

To learn more about these efforts, visit the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategic Plan and our Diversity & Inclusion : A Welcoming Workplace site.

Research shows that women and people of color are less likely to apply for a position if they do not meet almost 100% of the desired skills and experience.

Please note this is not necessary! If you meet the minimum requirements and have a passion for the work, you are encouraged to apply.

We can provide on-the-job training for the rest!

Commitment to Job Application Fairness

Applicants are not required to provide age or age-related information and may redact information related to age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution from any submissions during the initial application process.

Some Final Considerations

At UCAR NCAR UCP, you will work alongside a dedicated team of professionals conducting critical research and community outreach to solve complex Earth system science problems including climate change, air pollution, extreme weather, floods, drought, wildfires, and space weather, all with the goal of improving human life and reducing economic loss.

Each of us, from scientists to the professionals who support their work, serves the public and a collaborative community of scientists in our mission to understand the complex processes that make up the Earth system, from the ocean floor to the Sun’s core.

Flexible Work

At UCAR, we are committed to supporting our mission by giving staff the flexibility to find the schedule and location that works best to maintain their own work-life circumstances and reach their full potential as professionals.

Many positions within our organization are eligible for fully on-site, hybrid, fully-remote and / or flexible work schedules.

Equal Opportunity Employer

UCAR is committed to providing equal opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy.

Whatever your intersection of identities, you are welcome at UCAR.

Export Control

All positions are required to comply with U.S. export compliance regulations work location requirements regarding access to facilities and research systems.

Visa Wait Times

Please consider the length of visa procurement when applying for this posting, understanding that you will not be able to begin employment until you are able to get a visa and enter the U.S.