Senior Research to Operations Hydrologist

Hybrid

Remote

#137217 Senior Research to Operations Hydrologist

Filing Deadline : Fri 11 / 7 / 2025 Apply Now

UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and / or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.

This is a 50-100% Contract position anticipated to last 2 years. This appointment may be extended or converted to career status based on the needs of the department.

DESCRIPTION

The position will be part of the CW3E Hydrology Team and will focus on applying expertise with hydrologic, hydraulic, and water management modeling capabilities used by the National Weather Service (NWS) River Forecast Centers (RFCs) and California Department of Water Resources (DWR) to support research and development (R&D) and research-to-operations (R2O) activities in hydrologic forecasting. The incumbent will use demonstrated and extensive experience with the NWS Community Hydrologic Prediction System (CHPS) to design, develop, test, and deploy novel model and process configurations, with an emphasis on multi-model approaches, ensemble-based (probabilistic) forecasting methods, integrating machine learning (ML) techniques, and custom decision support tools. Detailed documentation of these efforts and training others within CW3E, DWR, and the RFC community to understand and operate the new capabilities will be critical aspects of the position. The incumbent may also participate in and lead efforts involving the generation and improvement of hydrologic ensembles (hindcasts and forecasts) to support the NOAA Cooperative Institute for Research to Operations in Hydrology (CIROH), Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO), and related projects and research, and contribute to related reports and journal publications. Provides input to management for strategic growth of computing platforms and resources, and support on-going efforts to improve data management procedures. This position will also lead interdisciplinary teams consisting of internal and external researchers, practitioners, and IT staff, and make independent decisions and recommendations on existing and new R2O and operational support areas for CW3E.

QUALIFICATIONS

In-depth knowledge of research function. In-depth knowledge and experience in hydrologic, hydraulic, and water management modeling, including model development / improvement, implementation, validation, and analysis.

Advanced skills associated with statistical analysis, database management and systems programming. Demonstrated expertise in designing, developing, testing, and implementing operationally-viable processes and procedures using the NWS Community Hydrologic Prediction System (CHPS).

Advanced project management skills. Ability to lead and influence within and external to project team. Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

Advanced ability to think creatively to recommend action steps or strategize solutions relative to research. Ability to identify and utilize research solutions based on the latest improvements in weather and hydrologic modeling and forecasting.

Advanced research skills at a level to evaluate alternate solutions and develop recommendations.

Advanced skills in analysis and consultation.

Advanced ability to communicate complex information in a clear and concise manner both verbally and in writing.

Familiarity with Linux and Windows computing architectures and storage systems.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

Must be willing and able to travel.

Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range : $108,100 - $204,900 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent : $51.77 - $98.13

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

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The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit : https : / / policy.ucop.edu / doc / 1001004 / Anti-Discrimination

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