Physical Scientist – Warn-on-Forecast System Developer

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Maryland.

📋 Description

• Assist in the operational transition of WoFSv1 while aiding in the development of WoFS v2 within a cloud setting, concentrating on model development, system integration, testing and optimization, as well as transitioning WoFS v1 capabilities into NWS operations.

• Strengthen the cloud-based WoFSv1 system to fulfill the NWS NCO operational implementation requirements and facilitate its operational transition.

• Execute thorough model performance assessments, benchmarking (WoFSv1 vs. WoFSv2), and conduct both retrospective and real-time simulations to assess forecast skills, operational readiness, and the overall value of the system.

• Broaden the geographical reach of the system by enabling the capability to run WoFS beyond the CONUS domain.

• Create new WoFS products and metrics to address a wider variety of high-impact weather hazards beyond severe convection, utilizing forecasters' input.

• Assist in the development and testing of the MPAS-JEDI-based WoFS v2 prototype.

• Design a robust and cohesive end-to-end workflow for the WoFSv2 system, integrating all elements: model input preprocessing, data assimilation, forecasting, post-processing, product generation, and visualization.

• Establish, maintain, and manage GitHub repositories to facilitate version control and code development.

⛳️ Requirements

• Education: M.S. or higher in Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.

• Extensive knowledge of Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) modeling, particularly in convective and mesoscale meteorology, ensemble data assimilation, and atmospheric physics and dynamics.

• Proven experience in developing weather forecasting systems utilizing WRF and MPAS.

• Familiarity with software development, code management (e.g., GitHub), and integrating complex modeling and data assimilation components.

• Preferred experience in assimilating weather radar, satellite, conventional, mesonet, and conventional observations with GSI or JEDI to enhance initial conditions for rapid-fresh, convection-allowing ensemble short-range weather prediction systems.

• Programming Skills: Strong proficiency in Fortran and contemporary scripting languages, especially Python (including scientific packages for AI/ML training and verification).

• Desired experience in working within cloud High Performance Computing environments.

• Communication: Exceptional oral and written communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.

🏝️ Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost.

• Healthcare benefits encompass medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage.

• Personal Time Off (PTO) Policy along with paid holidays.

• Highly competitive compensation plan regularly adjusted against industry and location benchmarks.

• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching.

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – we’re all company owners!

• Flexible spending accounts.

• Employee assistance program (EAP).

• Short- and long-term disability insurance.

• Life and accident insurance.

• Tuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement per year.

• Spot bonuses for outstanding performance.

• Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses.

• Employee Referral Program.

• Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System for personal learning at your own pace.

• Tailored career growth plans for every employee.