CIRES​/NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory, Associate Scientist in Electrical Engineering

Job Summary

The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) is seeking an Electrical Engineer to support the NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory’s (GML) Technology Transitions, Engineering, and Applications (TTEA) division. The position will initially support three efforts: the High-altitude Operational Returning Uncrewed System (HORUS), a balloon-born scientific package that includes a glider to return science payloads to a predetermined location;
Trace

AIR, the installation of the Measurements of Atmospheric Carbon and H2O (MACH) package aboard United Airlines commercial aircraft to measure trace gas atmospheric composition; and NOAA’s GHG Aircraft System for Light Aircraft (NGAS‑LA), a flexible yet robust instrument package for measuring greenhouse gases in targeted field studies across the globe. These projects have moved from conception to active deployment, and the engineer will help shape the trajectory of these ongoing programs.

The position is a one‑year full‑time role with the possibility of extension based on funding availability.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage applicants from all backgrounds, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

• Specify, design, develop, test, document, maintain and repair atmospheric sensors, trace gas measurement systems, or sampling equipment for ground, aircraft, balloon and/or unmanned system applications (50%).
• Deploy measurement systems to the field and provide ongoing technical support for field projects (20%).
• Provide input to collaborating scientists and partner organizations on engineering solutions for measurement needs (20%).
• Guide transition of new atmospheric observing technologies and/or platforms toward operational research applications (5%).
• Perform other relevant duties as necessary (5%).
• Note:
  
  The above percentage weights will be adjusted for candidates hired in the Sr. Associate Scientist career track, to accommodate project management, budget definition, milestones, and supervision of junior personnel. Senior Associate Scientists will also lead IP application efforts and participate in internal and external communication about technological advancements via presentations and written articles and white papers.

• This is a one‑year position with the possibility for extension to additional years based on funding availability.
• Anticipated start date:
  July 1, 2026. Visa sponsorship is not offered for this position. Candidates must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. on a full‑time basis and pass a federal clearance background check by the start date.
• The position will be rostered in CIRES at the University of Colorado Boulder but will be physically situated in the David Skaggs Research Center, 325 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80305, on a federal research campus.
• Occasional field work, such as balloon launches or installation of equipment on aircraft, will require out‑of‑state travel approximately 3–4 times per year.
• This position requires in‑person work 5 times a week to start; after an initial training period, situational telework up to 2 days per week may be possible if desired.

• CIRES offers a generous compensation package.
• Annual hiring salary range: $72,428 – $132,066. Salary is commensurate with education and experience and determined based on CIRES internal career‑track classification.
• Some relocation funds are available to help offset moving expenses, following CIRES and University of Colorado relocation processes and procedures.
• Position can accommodate a hybrid work modality after an initial training period.
• University of Colorado Boulder offers a robust training curriculum, opportunities for professional development and a Mentorship Program.

• Medical, dental, and retirement plans.
• Generous paid time off.
• Tuition assistance for the employee and dependents.
• ECO Pass for local transit.
• Access to world‑class outdoor recreation…