Oceanographic -Frequency Radar Technician

Oceanographic High-Frequency Radar Technician

Location:

John

C. Stennis Space Center, 1020 Balch Blvd, Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, 39529, United States

Division:
Marine Science

Position Type:
Staff

Employment Status:
Full Time

Grant Funded:
Yes

Salary Range: 39,816.

Pay Grade: E08

Posting Close Date:
July 3, 2026

Job Summary

The Oceanographic High-Frequency Radar Technician is responsible for independent operation, evaluation, advancement, and strategic oversight of High-Frequency Radar (HFR) observing systems supporting oceanographic research, real‑time data delivery, and coastal monitoring initiatives. This position applies advanced scientific and technical expertise to develop, evaluate, and refine radar data processing methodologies, quality assurance standards, and operational strategies that support the scientific integrity and reliability of HFR systems and associated data products.

The position exercises substantial discretion and independent judgment in evaluating system performance, interpreting complex scientific and technical data, identifying operational improvements, and recommending solutions to enhance data quality, system functionality, and research outcomes. The role serves as a technical and scientific resource for HFR operations and contributes to research initiatives, collaborative scientific efforts, technical reporting, and publications supporting the mission of the ocean observing program.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Independently operate, evaluate, maintain, and optimize High Frequency Radar (HFR) systems, including antenna configuration, signal transmission, remote site management, and system performance analysis.
• Develop, implement, evaluate, and refine radar data processing methodologies, quality assurance protocols, and analytical procedures to improve data reliability, scientific accuracy, and operational effectiveness.
• Analyze and interpret complex radar datasets to generate scientifically valid surface current products, near real‑time mapping products, and technical assessments supporting research and operational objectives.
• Exercise independent judgment in diagnosing technical issues, evaluating system performance trends, identifying operational deficiencies, and recommending corrective actions and long‑term improvements.
• Serve as a technical subject matter resource regarding HFR systems, data quality standards, operational best practices, and scientific applications associated with coastal ocean observing initiatives.
• Contribute to research initiatives, collaborative scientific projects, technical reports, presentations, grant‑related activities, and peer‑reviewed publications associated with oceanographic monitoring and data analysis.
• Collaborate with researchers, faculty, external partners, and operational stakeholders to support data utilization, scientific objectives, and advancement of ocean observing capabilities.
• Provide technical guidance and training related to HFR systems, data processing methodologies, and operational procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in oceanography, physical science, engineering, meteorology, environmental science, physics, or related scientific field.
• 5+ years of related scientific experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Advanced analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and scientific reasoning.
• Knowledge of scientific research methodologies and technical data analysis.
• Ability to interpret and evaluate complex scientific and operational data.
• Strong technical writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with scientific, technical, and operational stakeholders.
• Knowledge of MATLAB, Python, GIS, or similar scientific programming and analytical tools.
• Ability to develop and refine operational and analytical methodologies.
• Ability to manage multiple technical and research priorities simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in oceanography, physical science, engineering, or related field.
• Experience with coastal ocean observing systems, radar technologies, scientific data analysis, MATLAB, Python, GIS applications, and scientific programming methodologies.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.