Researcher VII

Researcher VII

This position requires an active USAccess clearance or the ability to obtain a USAccess clearance to be considered.

Cherokee Nation System Solutions (CNSS) is seeking a highly skilled Researcher VII to lead advanced numerical modeling efforts for nearshore coastal hazard assessments. This remote position supports high-impact projects focused on storm surge, wave runup, and geomorphic change, using high-performance computing and leading-edge models like InWave, XBeach, SWASH, and CROCO. The ideal candidate will hold a Ph.D. in a related engineering field, possess deep technical proficiency in MATLAB, Python, FORTRAN, and bring proven experience in hydrodynamic and morphodynamic model development, field validation, and collaborative scientific research.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Researcher VII: $80,000-$83,600

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Researcher VII Responsibilities Include:

• Developed and applied coupled numerical models (e.g., InWave, XBeach, SWASH, CROCO) to simulate nearshore storm impacts including wave runup, surge, overtopping, breaching, and geomorphic change.
• Conducted simulations for realistic and idealized cases such as Hurricane Ian (2022) using high-performance computing systems.
• Acquired and processed observational datasets from national repositories and collaborators to create model inputs.
• Generated model grids from bathymetric data and configured boundary conditions using Python and MATLAB.
• Evaluated model accuracy using time series analysis, skill metrics, and comparison to field observations.
• Led the implementation and testing of new physical algorithms within existing modeling frameworks.
• Conducted 1D and 2D nearshore experiments at test sites.
• Supported development of regional downscaled modeling frameworks for nearshore hazard forecasting.
• Created technical documentation for code, data workflows, and scientific analysis.
• Produced peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations for internal and public dissemination.
• Participated in planning and execution of field studies to collect validation data for model calibration.
• Uploaded metadata and model outputs to databases following federal documentation protocols.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Researcher VII Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:

Education

• Knowledge. in Civil, Environmental, Coastal, Aerospace, Ocean, or Computer Engineering

Technical Skills

• High-performance computing and parallel model execution in Unix/Linux environments.
• Proficient in MATLAB, Python, and FORTRAN for numerical model development and data processing.
• Experienced with version control systems (e.g., GitHub) and metadata standards for scientific data.
• Developed and validated models within COAWST, ROMS, SWAN, WAVEWATCH III, InWave, XBeach, SWASH, and CROCO frameworks.
• Conducted quantitative assessments of hydrodynamic and morphodynamic model performance.

Abilities & Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to independently manage and execute complex technical tasks.
• Strong written and oral communication skills; contributed to scientific publications and team reports.
• Deep understanding of nearshore processes including wave breaking, sediment transport, coastal flooding, and morphology change.
• Skilled in scientific collaboration, supporting multidisciplinary research teams and external partners.
• Capable of modifying and extending existing modeling tools to address new research questions.
• Able to synthesize large datasets and modeling results to inform coastal hazard risk assessments.
• Eligible for security clearance; drug testing may be required.

• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:

Cherokee Nation System Solutions (CNSS) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CNSS, visit cherokee-federal.com.

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Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Similar searchable job titles:

• Coastal Modeler

• Numerical Modeler - Coastal Hazards

• Marine Geoscientist

• Oceanographic Data Scientist

• Hydrodynamic Modeler

Keywords:

• Numerical modeling

• Nearshore processes

• Coastal geomorphology

• Wave runup and surge modeling

• Inundation and flooding simulation

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.