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- Earth Observations Data Management & Field Services Lead
Description
Job Description Summary:
The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Earth Observing Laboratory (EOL) invites applications from energetic individuals with a passion for managing and distributing Earth science data to lead our Data Management & Services (DMS) team.
The successful candidate will be able to lead the DMS team in developing and implementing a vision for a next-generation center for data management, archiving, accessibility, visualization, and interoperability. This role will involve close collaboration with EOL and other NCAR leaders in computational and information systems and modeling laboratories to ensure NCAR remains at the forefront of scientific innovation.
The DMS team is pivotal in transforming scientific data into actionable knowledge. By developing sophisticated data management systems, next-generation geospatial technologies, and ensuring accessibility and visualization of data, the team creates pathways to groundbreaking discoveries that improve understanding of climate trends, weather patterns, and environmental policies.
EOL is a premier center for atmospheric observational research, equipping the scientific community with advanced observational technologies and innovative research capabilities to tackle complex atmospheric phenomena. Our diverse team conducts groundbreaking field campaigns across various research environments, empowering scientists to address critical climate and weather challenges and fostering societal resilience through field experimentation.
Job Location: Boulder, CO
Job Type:
- Hybrid (minimum of 3 days a week is required to be on-site)
- Willingness and ability to travel up to 4 weeks per year, domestically and internationally.
Application Deadline: This position will be posted until February 17th, 2025.
Required application materials:
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 - As part of the job application, you will be prompted to answer the following questions (Please make sure to answer all the questions as an incomplete questionnaire will result in an incomplete application and dispositioned):
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement a vision for EOL data management and services that aligns with NCAR and NSF priorities, promoting impactful scientific outcomes and advancing the research community’s needs.
- Coordinate strategic planning with NCAR entities, NSF, and external organizations to establish shared priorities, achieve program objectives, and address emerging challenges.
- Engage with the scientific and technical communities to stay informed about relevant scientific emphases and technological developments, ensuring DMS remains innovative and aligned with user needs.
- Oversee the development, maintenance, and modernization of data services, including data products, delivery systems, visualization tools, and field project support, focusing on quality, reliability, and user experience.
- Lead and manage a diverse team of scientists and software engineers, fostering professional growth through strategic hiring, mentoring, and career development while optimizing team performance.
- Develop and manage operating budgets to address current needs, future challenges, and opportunities, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.
Represent DMS on the EOL Management Council, guiding laboratory programs, policies, and initiatives while promoting the interests of EOL and its stakeholders. - Maintain a safe, inclusive, and supportive work environment in compliance with UCAR policies and federal regulations, focusing on diversity, equity, and staff mentoring.
- Advocate for DMS and EOL tools and services within the Earth science community, conveying their value to NSF-funded and externally-funded research programs.
- Form strategic partnerships and collaborations with public and private sector organizations, nationally and internationally, to enhance the relevance and impact of DMS services.
- Collaborate with the user community to ensure adequate field project planning, execution, and data delivery that meets research goals.
- Engage with NSF and other funding agencies to integrate NCAR and EOL data services into the broader national research enterprise.
Promote education and best practices in data management and services to support scientific discovery and innovation.
Requirements
Education and Experience (Required):
B.S. degree + 15 years of experience or equivalent in Data Management or Sciences, Atmospheric or Earth Sciences, Engineering, or a closely related field
AND demonstrated professional experience in leading teams in scientific data services or relevant field
Education & Experience Desired but Not Required:
M.S. degree + 9 years of experience or equivalent, or Ph.D. + 6 years of experience or equivalent in Data Management or Sciences, Atmospheric or Earth Sciences, Engineering, or a closely related field
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Required):
- Expertise in data management and working with large data archives for observational Earth and related sciences.
- Knowledge of and ability to implement Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) principles for scientific data management and stewardship.
- Knowledge of modern tools and concepts for data archival, display, and distribution.
- Working knowledge of metadata standards, data publication practices, and related trends and tools.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with the research community while managing diverse, multidisciplinary teams, with proven expertise in resource planning, budgeting, personnel supervision, and project execution.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills for engaging diverse audiences, including effective advocacy, diplomacy, and employee supervision.
Working knowledge of software engineering principles and practices (e.g., Network Common Data Form - NetCDF). - Skill in proposal writing and submission, including developing statements of work and preparing accurate resource and budget estimates.