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NOA2401 Physical Scientists, Scientific Programmer Analyst, Subject Matter Experts

Location: College Park, MD and/or Remote

 

Background Information: 

I.M. Systems Group, Inc. (IMSG) www.imsg.com, is seeking multiple Physical Scientists / Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to support a multi-year potential Federal Government Contract at NOAA/NESDIS/Center for Satellite Applications and Research (STAR) (located in College Park, MD) in its theme area of Sensor Science and Cross-Cutting Technology. These will support the scientific and technical R&D for NOAA’s operational satellite sensor payloads for earth observing polar-orbiting, geostationary, and space weather instruments, as well as measurements from other platforms.  The selected candidates will conduct instrument calibration/validation (cal/val) activities to ensure data quality, monitor current operational instrument performance, and prepare for future satellite instruments. 

 

Mathematical models or algorithms are developed to interpret the measurements in terms of physical behavior to improve our understanding of the coupling of the Earth system components and their impact on our weather and climate. STAR collects and supports the collection of in situ observations for the purpose of vicarious calibration of sensors, science product development, validation of data products, and fusion with satellite data. Analyses of in situ observations are also carried out to provide input to the development and sustainment of satellite instruments and products and reduce risk.  STAR distributes fit-for-purpose satellite data products to users on a routine and sustained basis.  In support of the STAR goals, this theme has an enterprise-wide function and system orientated objectives for providing sensor and environmental science data and engagement of stakeholder needs for reliable and accurate data from both sustained and integrated Earth observing system sensors and science applications resulting in an engaged and educated public with an improved capacity to make scientifically informed decisions. 

 

The following positions are solicited in support of the above scope:

  • Physical Scientist, Scientific Programmer Analyst, and/or SME with in-depth knowledge on instrument radiometric, spectral, and spatial performance for sensors similar to ATMS, CrIS, VIIRS, OMPS, and GOES-R/ABI;
  • Physical Scientist, Scientific Programmer Analyst, and/or SME for algorithm development using tools similar to Algorithm Development Library (ADL);
  • Physical Scientist, Scientific Programmer Analyst, and/or SME for geolocation determination and validation.
  • Technical/Scientific leads for Sensor Data Record (SDR) cal/val and algorithm development and validation will be considered for candidates with proven qualifications. 

 

Duties/Responsibilities:

General Tasks

  • Ensuring that the satellite data produced by each of the NOAA operational sensors are of high quality and meet product requirements and user needs. This is achieved through extensive calibration/validation, scientific and technical research on sensor performance, characterization, anomaly resolution, re-calibration, and product validation by independent means. 
  • Ensuring that the quality of the data produced by NOAA meet or exceed international standards, traceable to SI (International Systems of units), and best practices are followed in satellite instrument calibration/validation. 
  • Supporting the radiative transfer model development and satellite data assimilation and supporting the cal/val of emerging sensors such as SmallSat, radio occultation, and Internet of Things. 
  • Supporting current and future satellite payloads from CEOS (Committee on Earth Observation Satellites) and WMO (World Meteorological Organization) member countries and agencies.
  • Providing the science, program management and system engineering activities that provides the transition of satellite data, knowledge and technologies developed by STAR across the institutional boundaries of research and applications allowing end users the ability to transform satellite data into actionable knowledge. 

 

Specific Tasks 

  • JPSS Satellite Instrument Cal/Val;
  • Integrated Cal/Val System;
  • GOES-R Instrument Cal/Val;
  • MetOp Instrument Cal/Val;
  • Space Weather Instrument Cal/Val;
  • Ocean Sensor Cal/Val;
  • Radio Occultation Cal/Val;
  • SmallSat Sensor Cal/Val;
  • Radiative Transfer Models (RTM);
  • Non-NOAA Sensor Cal/Val; 
  • Product System Development and Implementation (PSDI) and Satellite Products and Services Review Board (SPSRB);
  • Risk Reduction; 
  • Moderate/Experimental Service and Assurance Level; 
  • System Engineering;
  • Data Assimilation; and,
  • Proving Ground, AWIPS Test and Evaluation and Science Training. 

 

Required Qualifications:

  • MS in physics, remote sensing, and/or related fields. 
  • Hands on experience in satellite instrument Cal/Val.  
  • Solid understanding of physical principles and strong analytical skills using physics and statistical methods.
  • Scientific programming skills Fortran, C/C++, and/or Python, etc. 
  • Strong communication and presentation skills and demonstrated experience in writing scientific and technical documents. 
  • Good interpersonal and team-work skills.

 

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • PhD in relevant disciplines. 
  • Experience at NOAA, NASA, and/or NIST in similar task areas.
  • Experience using CRTM or other radiative transfer models 
  • Experience with pre-launch and post-launch sensor characterization, cal/val, data analysis, algorithm, software updates, maintenance,
  • Experience coordinating with JPSS flight and ground operations, end-to-end experiment support associated with JCTs. 
  • Use of ADL to test algorithm updates; Discrepancy Report Analysis, anomaly reports, delivery of PCTs, and science verification support for IDPS build-to-build tests

 

IMSG Offers Competitive Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • FSA, HSA
  • 401k matching
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Professional Organizations and Memberships
  • Critical Illness
  • Legal Insurance
  • Paid Time off
  • EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
  • Travel Assistance
  • Additional Perks

 

Candidates must be a U.S. Citizen or Green Card Holder to qualify

(US Citizen must live in US for 3-5 years prior to application)

(please indicate in your cover letter).

 

To Apply

Please apply online at IM Systems Group, Inc. | Current Opportunities (imsg.com)

 

IMSG is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Veteran and Disability friendly.

Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision