Hydrologic Scientist I

The University of Alabama is hiring a Hydrologic Scientist I for a full-time position in Tuscaloosa, AL. The role involves research on low-flow information, serving as a Regional Drought Information Coordinator, and advancing flood modeling applications. Candidates should have a relevant degree and experience in water resources. The position offers collaboration with NOAA researchers and requires strong skills in hydrologic modeling and stakeholder engagement.
About the position

The Hydrologic Scientist I position at the University of Alabama is a full-time role focused on research, coordination, integration, and stakeholder outreach activities that align with NOAA's national efforts on low-flow information and service delivery. This role also serves as a Regional Drought Information Coordinator for the Southeast Drought Early Warning System (DEWS). The successful candidate will be embedded within the Alabama Water Institute, working under the supervision of Dr. Steve Burian and collaborating with researchers at the NOAA National Water Center located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The Hydrologic Scientist I will engage in a project funded by NOAA through the Cooperative Institute for Research to Operations in Hydrology (CIROH). The primary responsibilities include advancing flood inundation modeling and mapping applications using the Next Generation Water Resources Modeling Framework for water prediction and hydrologic forecasting. The initial appointment for this position is for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on demonstrated research productivity and the availability of funds. Continuation in this role is contingent upon external funding derived from research programs or specific projects. Candidates are expected to have a strong interest in or be skilled in the development and application of hydrologic and hydraulic models, particularly in flood inundation and impact assessment. The position requires collaboration with a research team and effective communication with various stakeholders, including academics, scientists, practitioners, and students.

Responsibilities
• Conduct research related to low-flow information and service delivery.
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• Serve as a Regional Drought Information Coordinator for the Southeast Drought Early Warning System (DEWS).
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• Collaborate with a research team to advance flood inundation modeling and mapping applications.
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• Utilize the Next Generation Water Resources Modeling Framework for water prediction and hydrologic forecasting.
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• Engage in stakeholder outreach activities to promote research findings and applications.

Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in natural or water resources management, engineering, hydrology, geography, atmospheric science, environmental science, or a related field.
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• Two years of experience in water resources, natural resources, drought, flood, hazard mitigation, disaster response, climate extremes, or public policy.
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• Post-Baccalaureate degree (Master's degree or higher) is highly preferred.
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• Ph.D. in applied hydrology, civil engineering, computer science, geoscience, or a closely related field is considered for candidates with demonstrated postdoctoral research experience.
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• Strong interest or skills in hydrologic and hydraulic model development and application.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience with high-performance and cloud computing.
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• Proficiency in programming in Python.
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• Skills in data analysis and visualization.
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• Knowledge of geospatial analysis and processing of digital elevation models for flood inundation mapping.
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• Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.

Benefits