Description
We are seeking a highly accomplished scientist to drive critical research in atmospheric composition. This position will support the Stratosphere Troposphere Response using Infrared Vertically-resolved light Explorer (STRIVE) satellite mission. The successful candidate must be an expert in satellite atmospheric composition retrieval theory, with proven experience in developing innovative algorithms that translate satellite radiances into essential geophysical quantities.
A strong command of atmospheric radiative transfer modeling, preferably in the thermal infrared spectrum, is also essential. You will demonstrate high proficiency with computing methods and be adept at rapidly prototyping algorithms with easily used code, preparing them for robust operational data processing.
This role requires the ability to serve as a critical team member and carries the responsibility of supervising a Software Engineer.
Candidates will be evaluated and considered for the level (Scientist IV or V) that best matches their educational background and professional experience.
Requirements
Job Location: Boulder, Colorado
Job Type: Hybrid, 3 days/week minimum requirement in Boulder office
Position Type & Term: Full-Time, Regular
Application Deadline: This position will be posted until 11:59:59 pm MDT on Friday, June 5, 2026.
Required application materials: (preferably uploaded as a PDF):
- Resume/CV
- Cover Letter - Please address how your skills and experience meet the needs of this position (for more information, please refer to the Key Responsibilities and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities sections of this job posting).
- Questionnaire - embedded in the application
Visa Sponsorship: Not available for this position.
Background Checks: Conducted for candidates selected for hire.
Work Location: Regardless of flexible work arrangements, UCAR requires ALL positions to be performed within the U.S., excluding U.S. Territories.
*Please note that job descriptions for both of the levels advertised in this posting (IV and V) are included below for your reference.
SCIENTIST IV
Designs and executes scientific projects of significant complexity, advancing understanding in theoretical, observational, and/or applied domains. Manages technical direction for projects, contributes findings in a variety of ways, and supports institutional and sponsor engagement. Provides mentorship, enhances research quality, and plays a part in shaping team and program outcomes. Engages in mission-aligned activities both within the organization and throughout the broader scientific community. Contributes through a combination of scientific expertise, professional service, and education and outreach efforts.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Designing and executing complex scientific and/or technical investigations, to address complex, often interdisciplinary problems.
Developing or refining scientific models, algorithms, experimental methods, observational techniques, or analytical tools, applying advanced technical principles and incorporating recent developments in the field.
Leading or coordinating scientific components of projects or programs, including establishing goals, methodologies, timelines, and overseeing deliverables across internal and external collaborators.
Applying advanced data analysis and interpretation techniques, including statistical, computational, or simulation-based approaches to extract insights and validate results.
Contributing to and/or co-leading peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, data sets, findings, proposals, and documentation, and presenting findings at national and international conferences, workshops, and stakeholder briefings.
Supporting less experienced staff and team members by providing technical guidance, fostering scientific growth, and supporting collaborative working environments.
Contributing to scientific proposal development and strategic planning.
Engaging with internal and external stakeholders, translating complex scientific findings for diverse audiences and helping to shape project direction or programmatic priorities.
Leading development of products, tools, instruments and/or technologies for projects and programs.
REQUIREMENTS
Education
Typically requires a minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree and 10 years related experience, or a Master’s degree and 6 years of experience, or a PhD in a scientific discipline and 2 years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge
Has advanced knowledge of scientific principles, methods, and observational and/or modelling techniques in a primary discipline, with a sound understanding of related fields.
Skills and Abilities
Possesses good mentorship and interpersonal skills for supporting less experienced staff and fostering collaboration and scientific development.
Is skilled in developing or refining scientific models, algorithms, techniques, or tools, with attention to technical accuracy, usability, and applicability.
Possesses advanced skills in data analysis and synthesis, including statistical, computational, or simulation-based approaches using relevant tools or domain-specific platforms.
Is capable of making contributions to strategic planning and proposal development, aligning research efforts with organizational goals and sponsor needs.
Demonstrates the ability to lead components of scientific projects, manage deliverables, coordinate across collaborators, and contribute to successful outcomes.
Is an effective communicator, capable of producing peer-reviewed publications and sponsor reports, and presenting results to scientific and non-technical audiences.
Has a proven ability to design, execute, and interpret complex scientific investigations using both established and evolving methodologies.
SCIENTIST V
Develops novel hypotheses, tools, instruments, models, methodologies, and/or frameworks. Integrates contributions across teams and disciplines, and advances scientific and/or technical understanding with tangible impact. Leads scientific teams or programs, defining strategic directions aligned with institutional and sponsor priorities. Mentors less experienced staff, drives program innovation, and represents the organization in high-level scientific, operational, and collaborative engagements across sectors. Engages in mission-aligned activities both within the organization and throughout the broader scientific community. Contributes through a combination of scientific expertise, professional service, and education and outreach efforts.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Leading, designing, and executing scientific and innovation initiatives, contributing to theoretical advancements, methodological developments, or practical applications within specialized or interdisciplinary domains.
Developing and refining novel models, tools, instrumentation, or analytical approaches. Integrating insights from multiple disciplines to address uniquely complex scientific or operational questions.
Directing project teams by managing scope, risks, resources, and coordination across contributors, sponsors, and partner organizations.
Applying independent judgment and subject matter expertise to define objectives, prioritize activities, and identify high-impact opportunities for future research, innovation, or application.
Engaging with senior leadership and sponsors to shape scientific strategies, align goals with broader priorities, and guide proposal development and program planning.
Supporting the professional growth of less experienced scientists and technical staff, mentoring, fostering collaboration and team performance.
Contributing actively to, leading, and/or co-leading papers, reports, technical documentation, data sets and findings, and proposals as appropriate.
Disseminating significant outcomes through peer-reviewed publications, technical tools, invited talks, stakeholder briefings, and thought leadership that influence science and practice.
Representing the organization in external engagements, participating in advisory roles, national panels, or collaborative initiatives with emerging influence at strategic levels.
Leading development of complex products, tools, instruments and/or technologies for projects and programs.
REQUIREMENTS
Education
Typically requires a minimum of a Bachelors of Science degree and 12 years related experience, or a Master’s degree and 8 years of experience, or a PhD in a scientific discipline and 4 years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge
Has expert knowledge of scientific or technical theories, methods, and/or modeling techniques within a specialized field, along with a broad understanding of related domains.
Skills and Abilities
Is a skilled mentor and team builder, capable of supporting technical development, strong collaboration, and cross-project alignment.
Has good communication skills to engage senior stakeholders, support program development, and translate scientific insights into real-world strategies or products.
Is skilled in leadership, mentoring, and developing teams, with a focus on fostering collaborative and high-performing environments.
Possesses excellent analytical and strategic planning capabilities to set priorities, navigate trade-offs, and define impactful scientific or technological directions.
Demonstrates the ability to develop innovative hypotheses, methods, tools, models, or frameworks that address complex scientific, operational, or applied challenges.
Has proven capability in delivering publications, presentations, or externally recognized outputs that reflect meaningful contributions to the field.
Is recognized as an emerging leader in scientific communities through service, collaborative influence, or participation in national initiatives.
