Geologist/Geophysicist

Peraton•Stennis Space Center, MS

8d•$86,000 - $138,000•Onsite

About The Position

Peraton is hiring a Geologist/Geophysicist to work onsite at the Stennis Space Center, Mississippi. This role will support the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) Acoustic Simulation, Measurements, and Tactics research program. The program focuses on the theoretical understanding and numerical modeling of acoustic wave interaction with the marine environment, the measurement and characterization of environmental acoustics phenomena, and the development of environmental acoustic computer models and databases for fleet use in prediction, system performance estimation, and tactical strategy planning. The fundamental investigative approach is computational physics, utilizing numerical models and computer simulation capabilities, with a particular emphasis on integrating numerical models with undersea environmental parameters. The objective is to understand basic physical phenomena to optimize complex weapon/sensor systems, develop tactical decision aids, and perform warfare effectiveness analysis. The Branch transitions acoustic system performance models to fleet operational commands and utilizes major computational facilities, including supercomputers and massively parallel processors. Analytic and numerical models are validated through a strong at-sea measurement program, which also advances the technology base for innovative sonar systems and concepts. Coastal acoustic technology investigations support the development of passive and active shallow-water systems, including distributed systems and acoustic barriers. High-frequency research focuses on environmental acoustic knowledge and signal processing technology to improve torpedo guidance and control and mine-hunting sonars. State-of-the-art underwater instrumentation and digital data acquisition systems are used extensively.

Requirements

5 years with BS/BA; 3 years with MS/MA; 0 years with PhD
Secret security clearance
Highly skilled in modeling software including MATLAB and python
Ability to perform independent research on geological, geophysical, geochemical, geotechnical, and sedimentological characterization of the seafloor
Ability to develop geological and geo-acoustic models to challenges encountered during Navy acoustic system performance prediction and acoustic model development or mine warfare/mine countermeasures
Knowledge of geophysical data collection, reduction, and interpretation techniques from current state-of-the-art acoustic sensing systems, including towed and hull-mounted multibeam sonar, sub-bottom profiling, and seismic systems
Knowledge of in-situ and laboratory sediment characterization methods
Knowledge of magnetic and gravity data analysis and modeling
Skilled in hydrographic, geographic information, and geologic interpretation software including QPS Fledermaus/CARIS, Hypack/Sonarwiz, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Ability to work with a team, and to communicate in person and in writing

Nice To Haves

Extensive knowledge and experience in marine geophysics and geology, with proficiency in designing geophysical surveys and utilizing geotechnical techniques
Experience with tools such as multi-beam echo sounders, sub-bottom profilers, sidescan/synthetic aperture sonar instruments, ROV operations, and sediment characterization techniques in both in situ and laboratory settings is essential
Familiarity with underwater acoustics, physical oceanography, and marine biology is advantageous
Multidisciplinary expertise in hydro-chemical, sedimentary, and geological processes.
Skilled in analyzing sediment characteristics and interpreting seafloor interactions in acoustic models, particularly for Navy acoustic system performance predictions and surveillance operations planning.

Responsibilities

Overseeing the collection, analysis, management, and interpretation of oceanographic survey data.
Producing detailed geological and geotechnical reports.
Developing geologic and geo-acoustic models.
Strategizing the deployment of seafloor infrastructure.
Serving as a subject matter expert by analyzing existing data to identify gaps, recommending optimal survey techniques, assessing and mitigating risks at selected seafloor sites, and curating a comprehensive database of survey data.
Tackling multidisciplinary challenges by working both independently and as part of a team, with ample opportunities for leadership.
Presenting scientific findings at internal stakeholder meetings and publishing in technical reports.
Advising leadership on advancements in database algorithms, data acquisition and processing systems, and hardware/software upgrades.
Conceiving and defining solutions to technical problems that are typically difficult to define, require unconventional or novel approaches, require application of engineering and/or scientific principles in significant areas of research or development for which no closely related precedents exist, and/or present other features of more than average difficulty.
Writing or being a major contributing author on scientific papers, journal articles or reports and/or preparing contract documents and reviewing reports pertaining to area of technical expertise OR contributing inventions, new designs or techniques that are of material significance in the solution of problems.
Preparing & presenting own and/or team technical results, orally or in writing, to varied laboratory, scientific, industry & government audiences.