Description

The candidate will work both independently and collaboratively, managing projects and applying innovative methods to design and develop ensemble modeling capabilities for Atmospheric River forecasts. Responsibilities include creating ensemble‑based AR‑EFS configurations, testing perturbation and stochastic physics schemes, integrating regional data assimilation, and conducting retrospective and near‑real‑time experiments across multiple AR seasons. They will also collaborate with EMC scientists, external partners, and NCEP Central Operations to refine model configurations, support transition‑to‑operations planning, and ensure compliance with operational and HPC standards.

• Design and implement ensemble‑based regional AR‑EFS configurations within the UFS framework.
• Develop and test ensemble perturbation methods, multi‑physics and stochastic physics schemes to enhance AR prediction skill.
• Integrate and evaluate regional data assimilation using in‑situ and satellite observations (e.g., AR Recon, ASSIST radiances).
• Conduct retrospective and near‑real‑time ensemble experiments across multiple AR seasons.
• Collaborate with EMC, WPC, CW3E, OAR and other partners to refine model setups and assess performance.
• Support transition‑to‑operations planning with NCEP Central Operations, adhering to operational standards and HPC constraints.
• Produce scientific documentation, technical reports and peer‑reviewed publications.

Requirements

Lynker is seeking a talented Physical Scientist and Ensemble Modeler for Atmospheric River Forecasting to support the Environmental Modeling Center (EMC) of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP). The role will contribute to the Water in the West initiative by developing and implementing the On‑Demand Regional Atmospheric River Ensemble Forecast System (AR‑EFS) within the Unified Forecast System (UFS) framework. The focus is on advancing ensemble‑based regional modeling, data assimilation, and post‑processing techniques for real‑time applications and potential transition to NWS operations.

Applicants must hold an advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in atmospheric science, meteorology, oceanography, computer science or a related field, with at least five years of scientific programming experience and three years of experience in coupled forecast and data assimilation systems. Desired expertise includes numerical weather prediction model development (UFS, FV3, HAFS), ensemble forecasting, stochastic physics, and high‑performance computing. Strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills are essential, and candidates must be U.S. citizens or Green Card holders.

• Hold an M.S. or Ph.D. in atmospheric science, meteorology, oceanography, computer science or a related field.
• Bring 5+ years of scientific programming experience and 3+ years with coupled forecast and data assimilation systems.
• Demonstrated expertise in NWP model development (UFS, FV3, HAFS) and ensemble forecasting or data assimilation.
• Proficient in high‑performance computing environments and parallel programming.
• Strong analytical, communication and teamwork abilities; U.S. citizen or Green Card holder required.

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare at no cost covering medical, prescription, dental, and vision.
• PTO policy plus paid holidays; competitive compensation benchmarked to industry.
• 401(k) with company match and Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• Flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, disability and life insurance.
• Tuition assistance, spot bonuses, employee recognition awards, and referral program.
• Access to a self‑directed Learning Management System and personalized career growth plans.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance