Computational Scientist - Earth Systems and Environmental Analysis Modeling (10064)

Overview
The Earth and Biological Sciences Directorate (EBSD) leads novel and necessary research in three core areas: Atmospheric and Climate Sciences, Biological Sciences, and Environmental Molecular Sciences. The contributions of EBSD staff are many as we continue to elevate the impact of PNNL's science mission: to understand, predict, and control the complex adaptive systems underlying the science behind Earth, energy, and security.

The Joint Global Change Research Institute (JGCRI) at PNNL is seeking a Computational Scientist who would like to apply their education, training, and experience to developing scientific computer models and software that advance the understanding of long-term energy, water, land, economy, and environmental challenges. The position involves working as part of a large interdisciplinary team of Earth scientists, computational scientists, engineers, and economists to build and improve models that connect human activities with natural Earth systems.

Responsibilities
Collaborates with researchers on the development and innovative application of advanced simulation, data analysis, visual analytics, or other computational techniques to research problems in the sciences, engineering, or other disciplines for which computational approaches are significant.

May specialize in:

• Computational/Chemistry: Uses computer simulation and develops new algorithms and implementations to investigate chemical systems.
• Computational/Biology: Conducts research using bioinformatics theory and methods in areas such as biotechnology, computational biology, proteomics, computer information science, biology, and medical informatics.

The anticipated tasks may include the following:

• Development of new capabilities in the Global Change Analysis Model (GCAM), including model and software design, implementation, and testing.
• Development of tools for Multisector Dynamics (MSD) analysis, including use of High Performance Computing (HPC) systems focused component models within the Global Change Intersectoral Modeling System (GCIMS). This may also include work on developing input data for GCAM or disaggregating GCAM outputs using other tools.
• Participation as part of the research team in close collaboration with interdisciplinary scientists at JGCRI/PNNL, and other collaborating research institutions.

The successful candidate will be expected to work with project teams, and complete project tasks while working under guidance from project leaders. The successful candidate will contribute to model and software development products and technical reports and be encouraged to participate in research efforts. The primary assignment location is at JGCRI in College Park, Maryland. It is anticipated that the successful candidate will contribute to multiple projects including technical analysis, research using JGCRI’s flagship Global Change Analysis Model (GCAM), and project leadership. 

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:

• BS/BA or higher

Preferred Qualifications:

• Degree in computational science, engineering, physical sciences, applied mathematics, or related field.
• Experience in multi-sector modeling and/or related tool development.
• Demonstrated ability to write formal documentation.
• Demonstrated proficiency in C++, Python and/or R.
• Formal training or demonstrated proficiency in good software design practices.
• Candidates must have excellent communication skills, be able to work in a group environment, and have a demonstrated interest in and ability for successful collaboration across disciplinary boundaries.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment
Not Applicable

Testing Designated Position
This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).

About PNNL
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!

At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.

Commitment to Excellence, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Equal Employment Opportunity
Our laboratory is committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment dedicated to solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. In support of this commitment, we encourage people of all racial/ethnic identities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities to apply for employment.

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov.

Drug Free Workplace
PNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.

If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug.  If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn. 

HSPD-12 PIV Credential Requirement
In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential.  To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation.  This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year.  This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

Mandatory Requirements
Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.

Rockstar Rewards
Employees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, supplemental parental bonding leave**, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401k savings plan. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.

* Research Associates excluded.

**Once eligibility requirements are met.

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Notice to Applicants
PNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual’s relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.

As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.

Minimum Salary
USD $72,000.00/Yr.
Maximum Salary
USD $105,800.00/Yr.