Data Science Research Assistant Remote Jobs in Alabama

Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $74,200 - Midpoint: $100,200 (Salaried E12)

Department/Organization: 750503 - Crimson Water Initiative

Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm

Note to Applicants: Position is eligible for remote work subject to University policy. 

Job Summary: The Hydrologic Scientist I is responsible for research, coordination, integration, and stakeholder outreach activities that will complement NOAA's national efforts on low-flow information and service delivery and to serve as a Regional Drought Information Coordinator for the Southeast Drought Early Warning System (DEWS).

Additional Department Summary: The Alabama Water Institute (AWI) is one of The University of Alabama's four research institutes. AWI is leading local, national, and global efforts to advance water research, technology, and innovative solutions. AWI is dedicated to building a more resilient and water-secure world by driving groundbreaking research, educating the next generation of leaders, and delivering innovations that benefit communities and ecosystems worldwide. It provides a forum for interdisciplinary research and education and brings together university researchers, students, and staff to foster collaboration and a broad interdisciplinary focus on water issues that face our world today. AWI-affiliated researchers specialize in water security and quality, remote sensing, hydrological modeling, biological variability, watershed management and human health through synergies with existing centers and the creation of new centers under the umbrella of AWI.
The Hydrologic Scientist I supports the CRIMSON Water Initiative's applied research mission by conducting and advancing water risk assessment studies and developing useful information to help users build resilience to water hazards such as floods and hydrologic droughts in Alabama, across the southeast, and nationally. Plans and executes use inspired research projects; processes and analyzes geospatial and hydrologic data; and configures and runs numerical models.
Contributes to the production of databases and analysis tools using modern programming languages and open source development protocols. Supports the translation of research and development outputs into practical applications by a wide array of end users. Maintains awareness of the evolving state of hydrologic science, engages stakeholders to enhance the delivery and application of hydrologic analysis and forecasting products, and supports integrated hydrologic monitoring, modeling, and analysis. Contributes to knowledge transfer and capacity building by providing technical assistance, mentoring, and training in workshops, online forums, and user support sessions.
Continuation in this position is contingent upon the availability of external funding derived from research programs or specific projects.

Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in natural or water resources management or engineering, hydrology, geography, atmospheric science, environmental science, or related field and two (2) years of experience in water resources, natural resources, drought, flood, hazard mitigation, disaster response, climate extremes, or public policy. Post-Baccalaureate degree is highly preferred (Master's degree or higher).

Skills and Knowledge: Strong interest in (or be already skilled in) the development and application of hydrologic and hydraulics models and water risk assessment. Knowledge of hydrologic processes and water resource management. Ability to develop effective and cooperative relationships with local and state partners. Ability to develop and complete projects with limited oversight. Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with a group of partners. Excellent demonstrated written and verbal communication skills. Ability to present complex ideas concisely through written and verbal delivery for different audiences. Demonstrated strong and effective facilitation skills.

Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree or higher in natural or water resources management or engineering, hydrology, geography, meteorology, environmental science, or related field. One (1) year of professional experience in water resources planning, integrating research into product development, interpreting and communicating water data, and partnership development. Knowledge and experience in at least three of the following: working with hydrologic data, building and applying hydrologic models, and producing useable information and geospatial analysis tools .Experience with tribal partners. Experience in engaging users and stakeholders across a variety of economic sectors and communicating water risk information.

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.