Research Associate V, Step 1-4

About the role

The EarthRISE Project Office, within the Lab for Applied Science (LAS) under the Earth System Science Center (ESSC), is seeking a Research Associate to support science teams across EarthRISE and to help contribute to an EarthRISE ARL research initiative across the NASA Earth Science Division (ESD).

Responsibilities

• Implement project management practices across EarthRISE.
• Support solutions development by maintaining active communication across NASA HQ and centers.
• Leverage background and experience in thought and practice to lead strategic engagement for EarthRISE.
• Regular coordination with Research Scientists, Stakeholders, and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs).
• Build out a database of ESD projects with an evaluation and summary of Application Readiness Level (ARL) 8/9 projects, including communications with relevant PIs and scientists.
• Work with both technical and lay staff to reach out to and summarize existing projects and their associated ARLs.
• Work with Thematic Science, Cross-cutting Science, and Geospatial Information Technology (GIT) teams to identify solution needs.
• Communicate frequently within EarthRISE for cross-sectoral and thematic awareness and reporting, and with NASA HQ, as appropriate.
• Support project coordination, communication, and collaboration with other relevant EarthRISE and broader NASA ESD initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in project management, earth sciences, social sciences, or a related degree (education and work experience may be substituted for a specific degree).
• Minimum of 5.5 years of verifiable, full-time work experience.
• Project management skills, including co-development, communication, coordination, problem-solving, and teamwork skills related to technical, schedule, and/or budget oversight.
• Experience leading projects with multiple stakeholders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with both technical and lay staff.
• Ability to synthesize information from diverse technical and programmatic sources.
• Familiarity with applied EO science / geospatial technology.
• Strong familiarity with satellite remote sensing data products and a willingness to learn more.
• Familiarity with federal Application Readiness Levels (ARLs) / Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and associated reporting.
• QA/QC experience.
• Experience with the use and application of databases for project tracking and documentation.
• Expertise in local development issues, including resource management and resilience.
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity pertinent to various US regions and supporting locally-led development.
• Willingness to work closely with others in team environments.