Associate Scientist IV - Casual

Job Description Summary:

This position performs full life-cycle software engineering activities to support ballooning instrumentation programs supporting research within the solar-terrestrial geospace environment.

Position Details:

Visa Sponsored Job:

No

Relocation Assistance Eligible:

No

Job Location:

Boulder, Colorado

Position Type & Term:

Part time, Casual

Compensation Min - Mid Range:

Hourly Rate Range: $51.17 - $63.96

• Final salary and rates are based on education, experience, and skills relevant to the role.*

Application Notes

Job Location: Boulder, CO

UCAR requires ALL positions to be performed within the U.S., excluding U.S. Territories, regardless of flexible work arrangements.

Job Type: In Person

Position Type & Term: Casual, 2-year Term

Visa sponsorship: NOT available for this position

Relocation Assistance: NOT available for this position

Application Deadline: June 28, 2024

Required application materials:

• Resume

Background Checks: Conducted for candidates selected for hire. Learn more.

What You Will Do

Here is a brief summary of what one would expect to be generally responsible for in this role.

Software Architecture and Code Development

• Use C, C++, and Python to develop autonomous instrumentation control programs for balloon-borne instrumentation, including mechanisms, power switching, and camera system control

• Develop software enabling RF communication protocols between balloon platforms and ground stations

Software Operations and Troubleshooting During Field Deployments

• Support software troubleshooting during compatibility testing efforts with external partners

• Support software operational control efforts during remote field site integration efforts leading up to the launch

• Support engineering diagnostic software codes running during balloon campaigns when instruments are at float altitudes

Who We'd Love To Join Our Team

Successful candidates will ensure their application materials speak to the following criteria:

Education and Experience REQUIRED:

• Bachelor's degree in science or engineering and at least 10 years of instrumentation-based coding experience in C++; or a Master's degree in science or engineering and at least eight years of instrumentation-based coding experience in C++; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience in developing software for implementing telemetry communication protocols

• Experience in camera control software

• Experience in NASA-supported stratospheric ballooning missions

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities REQUIRED:

• Demonstrated ability to work as an effective member of a team of scientists and engineers and an advanced capability to conduct engineering instrumentation design independently as necessary.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a proven ability to communicate effectively with PIs, scientific staff, and fellow engineers, and proven ability in writing scientific instrumentation proposals and in successfully publishing engineering results

• Advanced ability to anticipate and define long-term impacts of design decisions and the knowledge and skills to mitigate such impacts.

• Advanced knowledge of design and testing for complex new systems that integrate into larger systems.

• Ability and willingness to travel for project deployments, as necessary.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Our organization is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment and fostering a culture where everyone feels welcome and supported. To learn more about these efforts, visit the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategic Plan and our Diversity & Inclusion: A Welcoming Workplace site.

Research shows that women and people of color are less likely to apply for a position if they do not meet almost 100% of the desired skills and experience. Please note this is not necessary! If you meet the minimum requirements and have a passion for the work, you are encouraged to apply. We can provide on-the-job training for the rest!

Some Final Considerations

At UCAR|NCAR|UCP, you will work alongside a dedicated team of professionals conducting critical research and community outreach to solve complex Earth system science problems including climate change, air pollution, extreme weather, floods, drought, wildfires, and space weather, all with the goal of improving human life and reducing economic loss. Each of us, from scientists to the professionals who support their work, serves the public and a collaborative community of scientists in our mission to understand the complex processes that make up the Earth system, from the ocean floor to the Sun's core.

Flexible Work

At UCAR, we are committed to supporting our mission by giving staff the flexibility to find the schedule and location that works best to maintain their own work-life circumstances and reach their full potential as professionals. Many positions within our organization are eligible for fully on-site, hybrid, fully-remote and/or flexible work schedules.

Equal Opportunity Employer

UCAR is committed to providing equal opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy. Whatever your intersection of identities, you are welcome at UCAR.

Export Control

All positions are required to comply with U.S. export compliance regulations work location requirements regarding access to facilities and research systems.

Visa Wait Times

Please consider the length of visa procurement when applying for this posting, understanding that you will not be able to begin employment until you are able to get a visa and enter the U.S.