Chief Scientist

Peraton is seeking a Chief Scientist to provide senior scientific and technical leadership for the NOAA Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS), the mission-critical platform supporting National Weather Service forecasting operations nationwide.

 

This position is hybrid.  Must be local to one of the following Peraton facilities: Melbourne, FL, Aurora, CO, Herndon, VA, San Antonio, TX, Houston, TX, Omaha, NE, Huntsville, AL, King of Prussia, PA, or Silver Spring, MD. 

 

In this role, you will define the scientific vision for applying data science, modeling, and advanced analytics across AWIPS, guide the transition of research into operational capabilities, and advise program leadership on technical strategy and modernization initiatives.

 

Responsibilities

• Serve as the senior scientific authority for data science, modeling, and analytics on the AWIPS program.
• Define standards and best practices for model development, validation, and data usage.
• Lead research-to-operations integration of new algorithms, data sources, and AI/ML capabilities.
• Advise program leadership and system architects on technical strategy and risk.
• Collaborate with NOAA stakeholders, engineers, and architects to translate scientific requirements into operational systems.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to teams of scientists and analysts.
• Represent the program in technical reviews and stakeholder briefings.

 

 

Required Qualifications:

• 16 years of experience, may have management experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (advanced degree preferred)..
• Expertise in environmental data systems, modeling, and/or applied data science.
• Experience leading technical or scientific teams on complex systems.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• PhD in a related discipline.
• Experience with NOAA, AWIPS, or operational forecasting systems.
• Experience leading AI/ML modernization efforts in production environments.
• Active/Current Public Trust

 

** This position is contingent upon contract award  **

 

 

#AWIPS

$176,000 - $282,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.