Job description
We are seeking an experienced Oceanographer to join our multidisciplinary coastal research team in San Diego. You will design and execute field campaigns, analyze oceanographic data, and contribute to modeling efforts that advance our understanding of shelf processes, currents, and climate related changes. This role offers opportunities to collaborate with leading scientists, publish findings, and mentor junior staff.
Our program emphasizes rigorous data collection, open science, and impactful science communication to policymakers and coastal managers.
Responsibility
- Lead field campaigns and instrument deployment along the Southern California shelf, coordinating with vessel and lab teams.
- Collect, quality-control, and manage oceanographic datasets (CTD, ADCP, moorings) and ensure data provenance.
- Develop and apply numerical models, data assimilation, and statistical analyses to understand coastal dynamics.
- Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams (marine biology, climate science, data science) to translate findings into actionable insights.
- Produce high quality figures, dashboards, and technical reports for funders and stakeholders.
- Mentor graduate students and junior staff, and contribute to field training programs.
- Prepare and submit manuscripts, conference abstracts, and present results at national and international venues.
- Manage project timelines, budgets, and equipment maintenance, ensuring safety and compliance.
Qualification
- PhD in Physical Oceanography, Oceanography, Marine Science, or a closely related field; or Master of Science with significant field and modeling experience.
- 3+ years of hands-on oceanographic fieldwork and data analysis experience.
- Proficiency with MATLAB and Python (xarray, NumPy, Pandas); experience with ROMS, MITgcm or similar ocean models.
- Experience with CTD, ADCP, and Seabird instruments; data processing and instrument calibration skills.
- Strong statistical analysis and data visualization abilities; familiarity with GIS is a plus.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to present complex results to diverse audiences.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, field-oriented environment and travel for field campaigns as needed.