Scientist VI - Casual

University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR)

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The High Altitude Observatory (HAO) is the Solar-Terrestrial Physics Laboratory of the US National Science Foundation National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR). Its overarching objective is to develop comprehensive, quantitative knowledge of the processes that connect the Sun and Earth, which is critical for the NSF NCAR mission to understand the Earth’s atmosphere, near space environment, and the impacts of their evolving state on society. The scope and breadth of HAO's activities require fundamental and translational science extending from the solar photosphere to Earth’s upper atmosphere, using a combination of observational, theoretical, and numerical methods. In support of this mission, HAO maintains a robust instrumentation program that designs, builds, and operates state-of-the-art instruments and delivers community data products. As part of this effort, HAO operates the Mauna Loa Solar Observatory (MLSO), which provides long-term, synoptic observations of the solar atmosphere and supports community campaigns with data that are essential for advancing solar variability, space-weather forecasting, and Sun–Earth connection research. The Scientist VI spearheads significant scientific and innovation initiatives, developing original theories, methods, or solutions for high-impact, interdisciplinary issues. This role oversees complex, multi-team projects, shapes strategic agendas, and influences policy, partnerships, and organizational growth. The Scientist VI mentors less experienced scientists, promotes inclusivity, and advances research or practical outcomes, shaping future advancements in science, technology, and practice. The position also involves engaging in mission-aligned activities both within the organization and throughout the broader scientific community, contributing through a combination of scientific expertise, professional service, and education and outreach efforts.

Requirements

• Minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree and 14 years related experience, or a Master’s degree and 10 years related experience, or a PhD in a scientific discipline and 6 years related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in a scientific area, with broad understanding of related fields, enabling integration of knowledge to resolve unique challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to develop innovative scientific theories, applied methodologies, or frameworks that enhance understanding and introduce new research or application areas.
• Skilled in leading large-scale, complex scientific or technical programs, including strategic planning, coordination of interdisciplinary teams, and alignment with mission-critical objectives.
• Demonstrates leadership and mentoring skills to support the development of senior scientific talent and foster inclusive, high-performing teams and psychologically safe environments.
• Advanced communication skills for engaging expert, sponsor, and general audiences through compelling publications, reports, and briefings.
• Recognized contributor to national or international science efforts, including participation in panels, advisory boards, or policy-shaping initiatives.
• Capable of translating scientific findings into impactful applications, solutions, or policy-relevant outputs in collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrates the ability to guide strategic scientific initiatives that influence organizational priorities and shape broader scientific, technological, or policy landscapes.

Responsibilities

• Leading/designing/executing significant scientific initiatives that address complex, emerging, or critical challenges with broad strategic relevance in a specialized or interdisciplinary domain.
• Developing and applying innovative theories, models, tools, or methodologies to advance scientific understanding and to enable new applications or pathways for impact.
• Directing large-scale, high-impact research and innovation portfolios, including multi-institutional, cross-sector, or interdisciplinary efforts, with responsibility for long-term strategic alignment, coordination, and results.
• Identifying and advancing transformative opportunities through strategic planning and programmatic innovation that align with organizational, stakeholder, and sponsor priorities.
• Representing the organization as a recognized expert, influencing national or international policy, external partnerships, and high-level collaborations across government, industry, and academia.
• Mentoring and developing staff; fostering a culture of creativity, inclusion, teamwork, and technical excellence across large teams or multi-project efforts.
• Leading/co-leading high-impact outputs (e.g. publications/reports, technical documentation, data sets, proposals, invited plenary presentations, technical tools/frameworks/or assessments) that shape policy, practice, further scientific advancement.
• Shaping organizational direction through leadership of strategic planning, policy development, and scientific visioning, contributing to organization-wide innovation and impact.
• Leading development of complex products, tools, instruments and/or technologies for projects and programs that have significant impact within the discipline.

Benefits

• Flexible Work (Many positions within our organization are eligible for fully on-site, hybrid (three days per week) and/or flexible work hours).
• Equal Opportunity Employer (UCAR is committed to providing equal opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy. Whatever your intersection of identities, you are welcome at UCAR).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Principal
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees