Data Scientist (updated 6-11-24)

The Berkeley Lab is seeking a Data Scientist (Computer Systems Engineer 4 / 5) to spearhead groundbreaking projects at the Computational Cosmology Center (C3).

C3 is focused on developing cutting-edge tools and technologies essential for advancing modern cosmology by managing data from leading-edge missions like CMB-S4 and the Simons Observatory.

Explore the cosmos as we uncover astrophysical transients, including the elusive Supernovae type Ia, using state-of-the-art discovery pipelines.

Delve into the intricate simulations of the universe's vast structure, focusing on the intergalactic medium and Lyman alpha forest with the Nyx code.

Harness the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze massive datasets and enhance scientific inference.

This role will play a pivotal role in designing and leading the planning, reduction, and analysis pipelines for key observational cosmology and astrophysics projects.

Dive into the excitement of ground and space-based telescopes as we embark on a series of international projects, each spanning 4 to 6 years.

What You Will Do :

Data Scientist Level 4 :

• Apply broad expertise and / or unique knowledge to plan and oversee the scientific teams and software teams that will build the planning, reduction, and analysis pipelines for key science projects within the science program.
• Develop the science program for a major space mission and develop a supporting science team.
• Develop the planning and run the larger community engagement programming with a major public observatory.
• Develop the forward modeling concepts for spectroscopic instrumentation.
• Work with Principal Investigator (PI) and Mission Manager (MM) to develop data analysis pipeline teams around key science areas;

serve as the liaison between the science team leaders and the software engineering staff

• Develop in consultation with PI and MM product-based level one and level two goals for the data reduction / analysis aspect of the project.
• Work with software engineering staff and science teams to develop low-cost architectural solutions to data pipeline needs.
• Provide on-demand evaluation of proposed approaches.
• Work with software engineering and science teams to iteratively plan budget and build pipelines.
• Support PI to articulate the significance and potential impact of the data analysis pipelines within the broader scientific research community and the overall trajectory of worldwide scientific and technological development
• Establish methods and procedures to reduce program costs.
• Provide advice to management on strategic planning and program development. Presents issues and proposes solutions to senior management.
• Ensure program rigor is balanced with cost, schedule, and risk.
• Establish testable validity criteria for pipeline verification and validation.
• Work on and resolve significant and unique issues where analysis of situations or data requires an evaluation of intangibles.
• Exercise independent judgment in methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.

In addition, the Data Scientist Level 5 will :

• Ensure the transfer of knowledge of technologies across the organization.
• Build collaborative relationships outside of Berkeley Lab (LBNL).
• Represent the Lab as a spokesperson in a professional manner to outside audiences.
• Initiate discussion and contribute expertise that impacts the future direction of the organization within the context of user needs and organizational mission.

What is Required :

Data Scientist Level 4 :

Typically requires a minimum of 12 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 8 years and a Master’s degree;

or equivalent experience.

• Broad expertise and / or unique knowledge with demonstrated experience managing a large scientific computing program, as well as research in a related field.
• Leadership skills which require involving others / a team to solve a problem.
• Organizational and communication skills, with the ability to learn quickly and convey complex technical concepts effectively with a diverse population, such that you can work productively in a multinational team.
• Ability to work on and resolve significant and unique issues where analysis of situations or data requires an evaluation of intangibles.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment in methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a cross-disciplinary team and lead complex projects.

Data Scientist Level 5 :

Typically requires a minimum of 15 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 12 years and a Master’s degree;

or a PhD with 8 years’ experience; or equivalent experience.

• Expert level knowledge and expertise.
• Ability to work on and resolve issues that impact design / selling success or addressing future concepts, products or technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships inside and outside of the organization and the Lab.
• Capable of representing LBNL as a spokesperson to outside audiences
• Ability to initiate discussions and contribute expertise that impacts the future direction of the organization within the context of user needs and organizational mission.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a cross-disciplinary team and lead complex projects.

Desired Qualification :

Ph.D. in astronomy or physics or related fields.

Posting updated 6-11-2024)

Notes :

• This is a full-time 3 year, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• The full salary range of the Data Scientist Level 4 position is between $144,516 to $243,876 annually and is expected to pay between a targeted range of $162,576 to $198,720 annually depending upon the candidate's skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience.
• The full salary range of the Data Scientist Level 5 position is between $175,812 to $296,688 annually and is expected to pay between a targeted range of $197,784 to $241,752 annually depending upon the candidate's skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position.

Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.

This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule - a combination of teleworking and performing work on site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Work schedules are dependent on business needs. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab.