Weather Forecast Modeling Scientist

Overview

MPAS-JEDI is the backbone of NSSL's next-generation convective-scale modeling and data assimilation work - and it needs someone who can keep the software, the science, and the HPC infrastructure all moving together. As FWI's MPAS-JEDI Systems and Convective-Scale Modeling Specialist, you will develop, install, and support MPAS-JEDI and related modeling/data assimilation systems across HPC, cloud, and operational computing platforms, supporting WoFS and WoFSCast research and operational transition. You'll be equally at home writing Python/Fortran workflow tools and diagnosing a storm-scale forecast bust.

Work Schedule and Location:

Hybrid: This full-time hybrid position will work Monday through Friday, 8 AM CST to 5 PM CST, with 90% at National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL), National Weather Center, Norman, Oklahoma, or designated field deployment locations.

FWI is expanding rapidly and has been recognized as a 2024, 2025 and 2026 Top Workplace, offering excellent growth opportunities in a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop, install, maintain, and support MPAS-JEDI and related atmospheric modeling and data assimilation systems on HPC, cloud, and operational computing platforms
• Develop and maintain scientific software, workflows, and automation tools using Python, Bash, Git, Fortran, and related technologies
• Implement and support real-time and retrospective modeling workflows using workflow management systems such as EC-Flow, Rocoto, or similar frameworks
• Support ensemble-based data assimilation, numerical weather prediction, software integration, testing, version control, and operational transition activities
• Manage, organize, and validate large modeling and observational datasets supporting WoFS, WoFSCast, MPAS-JEDI, and ML/AI applications
• Conduct model verification, diagnostics, quality control, and forecast evaluation using METplus and related verification frameworks
• Design, execute, and analyze convective- and meso-scale numerical experiments focused on storm-scale forecasting and data assimilation applications
• Collaborate with scientists, students, software engineers, and operational partners to resolve technical issues and advance forecasting capabilities
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, presentations, and scientific publications supporting project and research objectives

Qualifications

Required:

• MA/MS (PhD. Preferred) in meteorology, atmospheric science, computer science, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related field
• 8+ years of relevant professional or academic experience

Desired:

• Experience with convective- and/or meso-scale numerical weather prediction and ensemble-based data assimilation systems
• Proficiency in Python, Bash, Git, and scientific software development in HPC environments
• Familiarity with MPAS-JEDI, JEDI, WoFS, WoFSCast, MPAS, WRF, or similar modeling and data assimilation frameworks
• Experience with operational workflow management systems (e.g., EC-Flow, Rocoto) and large atmospheric modeling and observational datasets
• Knowledge of storm-scale forecasting, forecast verification methodologies, model diagnostics, and quality control procedures, including tools such as METplus
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams and communicate technical and scientific results through presentations, reports, and peer-reviewed publications

Work Setting and Environment:

• Primary location: National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL), National Weather Center, Norman, Oklahoma, or designated field deployment locations
• Normal work hours are Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day / 40 hours per week, excluding federal holidays; field data-collection activities may require irregular hours during active severe weather events
• Remote work arrangements must be reviewed and approved in advance by the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR); on-site presence may be required based on mission, field operations, collaboration, or security needs
• Local and non-local travel may be required, not anticipated to exceed 5% annually; all unplanned travel must be approved in writing by the COR at least 10 calendar days in advance
• Must complete an online IT security awareness course within one week of starting work
• Foreign national candidates are subject to export control review and require CO/COR approval prior to consideration
• Government-furnished equipment provided, including access to HPC resources, specialized mobile observation platforms, laboratory test equipment, computers, and office workspace, as applicable

FWI is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets.

Why Join Our Team

At FWI, we place the highest importance on creating an exceptional employee experience. You'll have opportunities to achieve your career aspirations through internal promotions, professional development, and other recognition and rewards programs. Join our team and take advantage of the many benefits we offer, including:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Holiday Pay
• Paid Time Off

Pay Range

$83,000.00 to $87,000.00 depending on experience, education, and clearance level.