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Postdoctoral Data Scientist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Picarro, Inc

Data Scientist

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Data Scientist Job Location: Santa Clara, CA (preferred) or Remote - US-based Job Term: Full-Time ... postdoctoral research counts). * Strong foundation in statistical modeling, including Bayesian ...

Picarro, Inc

Data Scientist

Santa Clara, CA · On-site +1

$130K - $150K/yr

Data Scientist Job Location: Santa Clara, CA (preferred) or Remote - US-based Job Term: Full-Time ... postdoctoral research counts). * Strong foundation in statistical modeling, including Bayesian ...

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Postdoctoral Data Scientist information

What is a postdoctoral data scientist?

A Postdoctoral Data Scientist is a researcher who has completed their doctoral studies (PhD) and is engaged in advanced research and analysis involving large data sets. They often work in academic, government, or industry settings, applying statistical, computational, and machine learning techniques to solve complex problems. Their work may involve developing new methodologies, publishing research findings, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. Postdoctoral Data Scientists typically aim to expand their expertise and contribute to scientific knowledge before moving to more permanent positions.

What are some typical collaborative projects a postdoctoral data scientist might work on within a research team?

As a Postdoctoral Data Scientist, you can expect to work closely with both academic researchers and industry professionals on interdisciplinary projects. These collaborations often involve designing and implementing advanced data analysis pipelines, developing machine learning models, and interpreting complex datasets to extract actionable insights. You may also co-author scientific papers, contribute to grant proposals, and present findings at conferences. Collaboration is crucial, as you will regularly share your expertise with other scientists and provide guidance on best practices in data management and analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral data scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Data Scientist, you need advanced statistical analysis, machine learning expertise, and a PhD in a quantitative field such as computer science, statistics, or engineering. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or R, data visualization tools, and experience with big data platforms are typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help you effectively collaborate across disciplines and present complex findings. These skills ensure you can drive impactful research, translate data into actionable insights, and contribute to scientific and organizational goals.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Data Scientist vs Data Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoral Data ScientistData Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Data Science, Computer Science, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree in relevant field, often with industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, labsCorporate, tech companies, startups
Employer & Industry UsageResearch-focused roles, academia collaborationsProduct development, analytics, business intelligence
Common Search & ComparisonResearch, academic projects, postdoctoral rolesIndustry projects, data analysis, machine learning applications

Postdoctoral Data Scientists typically hold a PhD and work in research or academic settings, focusing on advanced data analysis and experimentation. Data Scientists usually have a bachelor's or master's degree and work in industry, applying data analysis and machine learning to solve business problems. The roles differ mainly in work environment and experience level, but both require strong analytical skills and familiarity with data tools.

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Data Scientist jobs in California?

For Postdoctoral Data Scientist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Postdoctoral Data Scientist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Postdoctoral Data Scientist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Postdoctoral Data Scientist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Postdoctoral Data Scientist job openings:

Postdoctoral Data Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Data Scientist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Data Scientist

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Picarro, Inc
Environmental Consulting Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Picarro, Incexternal

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Data Scientist
Job Location: Santa Clara, CA (preferred) or Remote - US-based
Job Term: Full-Time
The Opportunity
Picarro's instruments and analytics power industrial emissions detection, from methane and VOC leak detection to process and emissions monitoring at industrial facilities. We're looking for a Data Scientist who can apply rigorous statistical and physical modeling to Picarro's core measurement challenges: detecting, attributing, localizing, and quantifying trace gases and emissions from complex sensor data.
You'll work closely with the data analytics, customer success, product, and engineering teams, applying and extending broadband spectroscopic analysis techniques and translating that understanding into models and algorithms that directly shape our products and solutions.
What You'll Do
  • Develop and implement models and algorithms for the detection, attribution, localization, and quantification of trace gases and emissions across measurement platforms and applications.
  • Build models of atmospheric transport and dispersion (e.g., Gaussian plume, WRF, HYSPLIT), or work closely with those who do, to support emissions analytics in diverse settings, including industrial facilities, pipelines, and urban and natural environments.
  • Apply statistical techniques such as Bayesian inference, hypothesis testing, and Monte Carlo simulation to quantify uncertainty and improve the interpretability of results.
  • Work with time-series and geospatial data to build analytical workflows that combine sensor data with atmospheric and geospatial context.
  • Design and run experimental programs to develop and validate algorithms, deepening our understanding of plume propagation and detection.
  • Write both experimental and production code and translate research-stage models into components engineering can integrate into Picarro's production cloud platform.
  • Use modern AI-assisted coding tools as part of the day-to-day workflow, alongside good engineering practices.
  • Manage, process, and visualize large, complex scientific datasets to extract actionable insight for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Maintain rigorous documentation and communicate findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

What You Bring
  • Ph.D. or Master's in Physics, Applied Math, Atmospheric or Ocean Science, Astrophysics, Engineering, or a related physical science, or equivalent applied experience.
  • 2+ years of related research or industry experience (postdoctoral research counts).
  • Strong foundation in statistical modeling, including Bayesian methods and uncertainty quantification.
  • Hands-on experience with time-series and geospatial data.
  • Exposure to atmospheric transport and dispersion concepts (e.g., Gaussian plume models, WRF, HYSPLIT) is a plus; we're happy to build this depth on the job for someone with a strong physical modeling and statistics foundation.
  • Proficiency in Python for numerical analysis (Pandas, NumPy, SciPy, Matplotlib, etc.) and SQL.
  • Goal-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities with minimal supervision.
  • Strong technical communication skills, able to translate complex analysis for both scientific and non-technical audiences.
  • Familiarity with cloud computing environments (AWS preferred) and software development best practices (version control, code review, testing) is a plus; candidates without this should expect to develop it on the job.

The base salary range for this full-time position is $130K to $150K. Our total compensation packages include base salary, bonus eligibility, and equity. Your base salary range and title will be determined based on the location, experience, qualifications, skills, knowledge, level, and pay of employees in similar positions.
We offer a comprehensive benefit package including:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) plans
  • Life, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
  • Employee Referral Program
  • 401K
  • Social events (summer picnic, holiday party, team lunches, etc.)
  • On-site Health & Wellness programs (fitness challenges, outdoor bootcamp, flu-shots, etc.)

About Picarro:
We are the world's leader in timely, trusted, and actionable data using enhanced optical spectroscopy. Our solutions are used in a wide variety of applications, including natural gas leak detection, ethylene oxide emissions monitoring, semiconductor fabrication, pharmaceutical, petrochemical, atmospheric science, air quality, greenhouse gas measurements, food safety, hydrology, ecology, and more. Our software and hardware are designed and manufactured in Santa Clara, California and are used in over 90 countries worldwide based on over 65 patents related to cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) technology and are unparalleled in their precision, ease of use, and reliability.
At Picarro, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, protected veteran status, gender identity, social orientation, or disability. Posted positions are not open to third-party recruiters/agencies, and unsolicited resume submissions will be considered free referrals.
At Picarro, we strive to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, have equal opportunities. If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, please contact Picarro, Inc. at disabilityassistance@picarro.com for assistance.

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