Interdisciplinary Radar Scientist & Engineering Geophysicist

The Interdisciplinary Radar Scientist & Engineering Geophysicist position encompasses a wide array of responsibilities across engineering, geology, geophysics, geodesy, radar technology, data management, software development, remote sensing, electrical engineering, and cGNSS installation. This role involves both geodetic field engineering and research and development in physical science.

As a radar scientist, you will focus on calibration and validation techniques for the upcoming NISAR mission, using proprietary hardware to ensure precise radar measurements and enhance satellite data accuracy. As an engineering geophysicist, you will be responsible for project implementation of cGNSS reconnaissance, cGNSS installations, telemetry, airborne lidar data acquisition, RTK analysis, and drone imaging. The position includes the integration of various datasets, analysis of position timeseries, QC & SOH metrics, and resolving novel problems in geophysical engineering.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to independently conceive, develop, and implement solutions for complex radar and geophysical equipment-related engineering problems using both established techniques and practices as well as the development of internal processes. This position involves tangible field construction using power tools and requires the mental acuity of an experienced physical scientist. They will ensure that all engineering work adheres to high technical and organizational standards and will actively engage in cutting-edge research and development pertinent to the company's objectives.

The individual will play a key role in site selection and lead the construction of new radar cal/val equipment and cGNSS installations. They will direct subcontractors such as drillers and mechanical and fabrication engineers. While delegating some field tasks, they will personally participate in multi-week domestic and international field campaigns, ensuring mission success.

VerQuin employees are expected to adhere to the organization's Code of Conduct and Core Values in all professional interactions. Adherence to VerQuin’s Non-Disclosure Agreement with cognizance of operational and cyber security is paramount. This position reports directly to the Chief Operations Officer and coordinates projects with other Senior-Level Managers. The office location is in San Clemente, CA, where daily, on-time attendance is required when not on business travel. Email info@verquin.net to request the full Position Description.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

·     Radar Technology Development: Contribute to or lead the development of radar technology for SAR/NISAR corner reflectors used in remote deployments and in harsh conditions.

·     Calibration/Validation: Collaborate with VerQuin personnel on the collection and integration of radar data, InSAR imagery, cGNSS positions, Lidar, RTK measurement, EDM positions, and calibration/validation hardware (i.e. corner reflectors) for the purpose of decreasing errors and enhancing imagery. 

·     Lead cGNSS Network Development: Perform cGNSS reconnaissance, coordinate with Client/stakeholders for land access, lead configuration and preparation of materials/supplies/electronics, work with drillers and vendors, plan and implement cGNSS installations in California and elsewhere in the western hemisphere. 

·     Technical Lead for Software Implementation: Act as the technical lead for implementing software onto the company’s VPN and dataflow systems, such as GIS Software tools and radar data.

·     Configuration and Testing of Equipment: Lead the configuration, testing, QC, and SOH assessment of cGNSS, telemetry, and radar cal/val equipment.

·     Design of Telemetry and Sensor Systems: Design and test complex telemetry and geophysical sensor systems, integrating them into larger or existing systems with varied security requirements.

·     Liaison with Agencies and Stakeholders: Act as a liaison with the members of State and U.S. Federal Agencies, International Institutions, and other clients or stakeholders.

·     Manage Geophysical Projects: Manage and implement diverse and complex geophysical projects, including logistics, site selection, licensing, installation, maintenance, network configuration, and data flow.

·     Geologic Assessments: Contribute to geological assessments for new cGNSS, radar Cal/Val equipment and geophysical equipment installations, considering stability and design.

·     Specify Station Configurations: Specify station configurations and data collection strategies, and develop cost estimates and budgets for individual projects.

·     Innovative Technical Solutions: Devise unique solutions to complex technical problems, troubleshooting hardware, firmware, software, engineering issues, and logistics.

·     Generate Technical Documentation: Produce detailed technical project documentation, process designs, and prepare necessary reports.

·     Documentation of Reconnaissance and Installation: Complete all related documentation, including photo management, schematics, and data entry.

·     Track Project Progress: Monitor progress on the Scope of Work and budgets as requested by the supervisor.

·     Assess QC and SOH Metrics: Assess QC and SOH metrics to determine the health of cGNSS and geophysical station equipment in both internal and external client networks.

·     Preparation and Testing for Fieldwork: Lead the preparation and testing of equipment, materials, supplies, and power systems for fieldwork.

·     Field Installation Logistics: Manage loading, mobilization, and shipping for field installations, maintenance, or fieldwork.

·     Coordinate with Fabrication Vendors: Assist or lead in coordinating with vendors for trihedral corner reflectors, cGNSS equipment, power systems, and custom designs.

·     Maintain Organizational Standards: Establish and maintain standards for lessons learned to inform future projects.

·     Versatile Duties: Perform a range of duties as assigned, from general tasks to presenting research and development at professional conferences down to sweeping the warehouse floor.

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

· Educational Background:

• Bachelor's degree in physics, engineering, geophysics, geoscience, or a related field, with a minimum of ten years of relevant experience.
• Alternatively, a Master's degree in physics, engineering, geoscience, or a related field with eight years of experience.
• A Ph.D. in physics, engineering, geoscience, or a related field with four years of relevant experience.

· Professional Certifications: Preferred.

· Security Clearance: Possession of a security clearance is advantageous and will be considered a plus.

· Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is required. Fluency in German or Spanish, or proficiency in other languages is preferred and will be considered beneficial, given the international nature of the role.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Possession of a valid U.S. driver's license.
• Commercially insurable for vehicle liability coverage at an economical rate (i.e. clean driving record).
• Compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR 391.41-391.49).
• This position requires daily, punctual attendance at the San Clemente, CA office when not on business travel. 
• Domestic and international travel (30-45%), which may involve conventional means such as aircraft, motor vehicles, boats, or extraordinary means.
• Possession of a valid United States of America passport.
• No felony convictions.
• Successful completion of a background check in accordance with the standards for Federal and Federal Contract Employment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

·      Field Work Mobility: Field settings may involve climbing, kneeling, balancing, and crouching while handling sensitive equipment and working with power systems. These tasks should be performed safely and in accordance with established guidelines.

·      Towing: The ability to drive for a full day, multiple days, while towing a trailer is necessary.

·      Lifting and Carrying: The ability to periodically safely lift, carry, or move up to 75 pounds individually for a distance of 1 mile in mild to extreme terrain is required. Assistance can be provided for weights up to 125 pounds.

·      Travel and Transportation: Safe handling of domestic and international travel in remote or extreme environments may involve various modes of transportation, including off-road vehicles, helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, specialty vehicles, hiking, or pack animals.

·      Endurance in Field Conditions: The position requires the ability to endure field work conditions that may include extreme cold, extreme heat, high humidity, loud noise, a wide range of hazards, vibration, and proximity to predatory animals in the wilderness. Safety protocols and precautions should be followed at all times.

SCHEDULE

·      Travel: On average, travel is expected to occupy approximately 30-45% of the time, ranging from local day trips to 7 consecutive days, and the occasional 14-day trip if cross-country or overseas travel is involved. Travel plans are typically scheduled 1 to 3 months in advance. In the case of Arctic assignments, longer travel periods may be required.

·      Fair Exchange: The position aims to establish a fair exchange of time and salary. In months where the average workweek exceeds 46 hours, compensation days or additional hours can be arranged in consultation with the Chief Operations Officer, project lead, or the Chief Executive Officer. A bonus may be issued for top-tier performance within extant circumstances. 

VerQuin acknowledges the importance of work-life balance and is committed to ensuring that the demands of the schedule are reasonable and manageable. The organization values open communication and will strive to accommodate individual needs and preferences to the best of its ability.