Senior Data Scientist – Ocean & Ice Data Assimilation

UCAR - The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research; Boulder (CO); Hybrid; USD 99,000 - 129,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental

Retirement plan

Leave plans

Tuition assistance

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Employee assistance programs

Hybrid work model

Job summary

UCAR is seeking a Scientist IV to advance coupled ocean–sea ice data assimilation for the Global Forecast System, integrating Level 1b radiances and sea ice observations. The role emphasizes leadership, mentorship, and collaboration with CPAESS and NOAA's OMD to improve forecast skill.

The position requires advanced education in a scientific discipline with substantial related experience, and offers a time-limited appointment with broad relocation and visa sponsorship options.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and many years of experience in a scientific field or Master’s with substantial experience; PhD with relevant experience also acceptable.
• Strong mentorship and communication skills with ability to lead interdisciplinary teams.
• Advanced knowledge of data analysis, modeling, and observational techniques.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute complex scientific investigations addressing interdisciplinary problems.
• Develop or refine models, algorithms, and observational techniques for data assimilation.
• Lead scientific components of projects, coordinating goals, timelines, and deliverables.
• Apply advanced data analysis to extract insights and validate results.
• Contribute to publications, reports, and presentations; engage sponsors and stakeholders.
• Mentor staff and foster collaborative scientific growth.
• Support proposal development and strategic planning.
• Translate findings for diverse audiences and shape project direction.
• Lead development of tools and technologies for projects.

Skills

Mentorship

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Project leadership

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree + 10 years experience

Master’s degree + 6 years experience

PhD + 2 years experience

Tools

JEDI data assimilation framework

GFS data system

Radiance data assimilation tools

Job description

UCAR is seeking a Scientist IV to advance coupled ocean–sea ice data assimilation for the Global Forecast System, integrating Level 1b radiances and sea ice observations. The role emphasizes leadership, mentorship, and collaboration with CPAESS and NOAA's OMD to improve forecast skill.

The position requires advanced education in a scientific discipline with substantial related experience, and offers a time-limited appointment with broad relocation and visa sponsorship options.