CIRES/ NOAA Weather Prediction Center, Meteorological Professional Research Assistant

The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) at the University of Colorado Boulder is seeking a Professional Research Assistant (Associate Scientist) to generate real-time ensemble cluster and sensitivity analysis tools from convection-allowing ensemble forecast datasets. This role focuses on heavy precipitation, temperature, and other mesoscale variables of interest to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) for operational forecasters within the National Weather Service (NWS). The position involves developing and disseminating training materials for probabilistic forecast tools and assisting with ensemble post-processing workflows for NOAA Testbed experiments.

The Associate Scientist will collaborate with Federal WPC staff, NOAA scientists and forecasters, CIRES employees at WPC, and external partners in academia and NOAA Labs such as the Global Systems Laboratory (GSL) and Physical Systems Laboratory (PSL). WPC is located in College Park, MD, within the NOAA Center for Weather and Climate Prediction (NCWCP), a highly collaborative environment housing multiple NOAA organizations.

This position performs novel research, transitions research projects to operations, serves as Principal Investigator (PI) or co-PI on funded projects, and collaborates with external partners. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without visa sponsorship. The role is based at WPC in Riverdale Park, MD, with remote work considered. Selected finalists will undergo a federal background check for site access.

About the Organization

CIRES is an internationally recognized leader in environmental science, partnered with NOAA since 1967. With over 900 professionals, CIRES advances understanding of the Earth system, including weather, climate, air quality, and more. The Weather Prediction Center (WPC) provides national weather situational awareness and precipitation expertise, serving as the foundation for the nation’s weather story.

Responsibilities

• Identify and develop short-range ensemble-based tools to assist in forecast preparation (30%).
• Participate in the maintenance and enhancement of WPC's operational forecast tools (20%).
• Support a collaborative team to transition convection-allowing probabilistic forecast tools for short-range weather hazards into operations (20%).
• Develop training materials to assist users in adopting new tools and approaches (20%).
• Collaborate on proposals, contribute to scientific publications, and attend workshops and conferences (10%).

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in meteorology, atmospheric science, or a related field, with at least two years of directly relevant experience (or a master’s degree in the same fields).
• Experience working with, analyzing, and applying statistical methods to large meteorological datasets (e.g., GRIB, NetCDF).
• Experience in Linux and high-performance computing environments.
• Strong analytical and programming skills, including proficiency in Python and shell scripting.
• Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills to engage forecasters and incorporate feedback into product development.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for a collaborative team environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• A master's degree or higher in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or a related field, with at least one year of relevant experience.
• Experience applying statistical methods to extreme weather events.
• Experience with ensemble prediction systems and their application to hazardous weather diagnosis and forecasting.
• Experience with ensemble clustering and sensitivity analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, implement, and maintain real-time product workflows.
• Experience preparing peer-reviewed manuscripts and competitive research proposals.
• Willingness to contribute to web development.

Pay

The annual hiring salary range for this position is $60,000 - $97,000, commensurate with education and experience.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and retirement plans.
• Generous paid time off.
• Tuition assistance for employees and dependents.
• ECO Pass for free local transit access.
• Relocation funds available following CIRES and University of Colorado procedures.
• Professional development opportunities, including a Mentorship Program.