Lynker, a Federal Government Contractor, is seeking to fill a full-time position supporting the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) at the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). Space Weather refers to variations in the space environment between the sun and Earth that can affect technologies in space and on Earth. Space weather is primarily driven by solar storm phenomena that include coronal mass ejections, solar flares, solar particle events and solar wind. These phenomena that are directed toward Earth are potential drivers of space weather events that can disrupt communications, satellite and airline operations, navigation and surveying systems, as well as electric power grids across large geographic regions on Earth. Space weather is a global issue and an understanding of solar storm phenomena is an important component to SWPC’s success at developing accurate space weather forecasts (event onset, location, duration, and magnitude). 

The incumbent will lead the planning, coordination, and execution of research-to-operations (R2O) transitions within SWPC. Serving as a key technical and programmatic focal point for the SWPC Testbed, the incumbent will manage multidisciplinary projects that advance space weather forecasting capabilities, bridge operational needs with scientific innovations, and oversee the systematic integration of emerging models, tools, and data sources into SWPC operations. This role requires a strong foundation in geophysical sciences, advanced scientific programming, and the ability to lead collaborative teams in a high-impact mission environment.

The work will primarily include the following responsibilities:

• Lead the end-to-end coordination of SWPC Testbed activities, including the evaluation, adaptation, and operational transition of new models, data, and forecasting tools.
• Serve as the principal liaison between researchers, forecasters, program managers, and external partners to ensure alignment of Testbed efforts with SWPC’s operational priorities.
• Manage scientific development tasks, including the design and testing of numerical models, performance validation, and integration of new observational or derived products.
• Oversee a team of technical contributors and support personnel to execute assigned Testbed projects within defined scope, schedule, and resource constraints.
• Apply advanced scientific programming techniques to support model development, statistical evaluation, and visualization of complex geophysical datasets.

• Lead the formulation of technical objectives, establish design parameters, and develop verification and test plans to ensure the operational reliability of transitioned capabilities.
• Track, document, and communicate project progress to SWPC leadership and stakeholders; contribute to strategic planning for future Testbed activities.
• Evaluate observational requirements and emerging data streams that may enhance operational space weather prediction systems.
• Support and maintain situational awareness of the broader space weather enterprise, including operational trends, technology developments, and stakeholder needs.

At least a Master’s degree in atmospheric science, space physics, geophysics, engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related STEM discipline, at least 10 years of experience in related areas.

Knowledge, Skills, and Requirements:

• Demonstrated expertise in numerical modeling, data assimilation, or scientific software development within a geophysical or environmental science domain.
• Proven ability to manage interdisciplinary teams and coordinate complex scientific projects.
• Proficiency in scientific programming (e.g., Python, Fortran, C/C++, or similar) and familiarity with scientific computing frameworks or environments.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey technical concepts and project plans to both expert and non-expert stakeholders.

Desired skills:

• Experience with transitioning research models or tools into operational environments, preferably in a forecast center or mission-critical context.
• Familiarity with space weather observational systems, solar-terrestrial physics, or magnetospheric/ionospheric modeling.
• Knowledge of NOAA/NWS systems and mission areas, particularly those related to the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP).
• Experience in identifying and leveraging external funding or collaborative opportunities to advance scientific or operational priorities.

Candidates must be a U.S. Citizen or Green Card Holder to qualify

(US Citizen must live in US for 3-5 years prior to application)

(Please indicate in your cover letter).

About Lynker

Lynker is a growing, employee owned, small business, specializing in professional, scientific and technical services. Our continually expanding team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and management and business process improvement.

We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective. And having the right people is critical for success. Our streamlined organization enables and empowers our talented professionals to tackle our customers' scientific and technical priorities – creatively and effectively.

Lynker offers a team-oriented work environment, and the opportunity to work in a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions. Lynker's benefits include the following:

• Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost
• Healthcare benefit covers medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision
• Personal Time Off (PTO) Policy plus paid holidays
• Highly competitive compensation plan regularly calibrated against industry and location benchmarks
• 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – we're all company owners!
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• Life and accident insurance
• Tuition assistance/Training/Workforce improvement reimbursement per year
• Spot bonuses for exceptional performance
• Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses
• Employee Referral Program
• Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System to learn at your own pace
• Personalized career growth plans for every employee

Lynker is an E-Verify employer.

Lynker is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local laws.