Staff Careers

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Associate IV with expertise in data analysis, data visualization, and working with mesonet and other observational networks. The successful candidate will support Principal Investigators (PIs) by developing and managing data access systems for multiple mesonets, conducting advanced data analysis, and assisting with the installation and maintenance of field instruments. This role is crucial for enhancing our understanding of environmental processes through the integration of modeled and observed datasets.

Duties / Responsibilities

Mesonet Data Access and Management:
• Develop, design, and maintain data access systems to integrate multiple mesonet networks, ensuring efficient data flow and accessibility.
• Work with various data formats and structures, including real-time and historical observational data, to facilitate seamless data integration and retrieval.
• Collaborate with data providers to enhance data quality and accessibility, addressing issues related to data integrity and standardization.

Instrumentation and Field Support:
• Assist in the installation, calibration, and maintenance of field instruments, including weather stations, soil moisture sensors, and other environmental monitoring equipment.
• Troubleshoot instrumentation issues and ensure data quality from deployed sensors.
• Conduct site visits to support the deployment and optimization of mesonet stations.

Data Analysis and Visualization:
• Analyze data from mesonets and other observational networks using statistical and machine learning techniques to extract meaningful insights.
• Develop data processing pipelines to ensure efficient and reproducible data analysis workflows.
• Design and create visualizations to effectively communicate complex data to scientific audiences and stakeholders.

Technical Support and Collaboration:
• Provide technical support and training to team members on data access, instrumentation, and analysis techniques.
• Work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including data scientists, engineers, and environmental researchers, to enhance data use and interpretation.
• Maintain and update documentation for data systems, instrumentation, and analysis methods.
Publication and Proposal Writing:
• Assist in writing and editing research articles for publication in scientific journals.
• Contribute to the development of research proposals to secure funding from various sponsors, including government agencies and non-profit organizations.

● Bachelor degree.
● 45-51 months of full-time verifiable work experience.
● Proven experience in data analysis, instrumentation, and fieldwork, preferably within environmental or earth sciences.
● Strong background in managing and integrating data from mesonets or other observational networks.
● Experience in field installation and maintenance of environmental monitoring equipment.
● Proficiency in Python, R, or similar tools for data analysis and visualization.
● Familiarity with data management and database systems.
● Knowledge of instrumentation, calibration, and fieldwork practices.
● Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
● Experience in writing scientific papers and research proposals is highly desirable.
● Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
● Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced research environment.
● Capacity to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

● Master’s degree or higher in Data Science, Environmental Science, Engineering, Atmospheric Science, or a related field.

$62,659 - $66,489