Geologist/Geophysicist

Responsibilities

Peraton is hiring a Geologist/Geophysicist to work onsite at the Stennis Space Center, Mississippi.

This role will support Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) Acoustic Simulation, Measurements, and Tactics research program which focuses on the theoretical understanding and numerical modeling of acoustic wave interaction with the marine environment, the measurement and characterization of environmental acoustics phenomena, and the development of environmental acoustic computer models and databases to be used by the fleet for prediction, system performance estimation, and tactical strategy planning. The fundamental investigative approach is computational physics employed in the development and utilization of numerical models and computer simulation capabilities. Particular emphasis is placed on integration of numerical models with undersea environmental parameters. The objective is to understand the basic physical phenomena involved and to use this understanding to: optimize complex weapon/sensor systems; develop tactical decision aids; and perform warfare effectiveness analysis. The Branch transitions acoustic system performance models to fleet operational commands. The Branch has major computational facilities and strong utilization of supercomputers and massively parallel processors. The analytic and numerical models are validated through a strong at-sea measurement program. These experimental efforts also advance the technology base to support the development of innovative sonar systems and concepts. Coastal acoustic technology investigations support the development of passive and active shallow-water systems, including distributed systems and acoustic barriers. High-frequency research is aimed at environmental acoustic knowledge and signal processing technology to improve torpedo guidance and control and mine-hunting sonars. State-of-the-art underwater instrumentation and digital data acquisition systems are used extensively by the Branch.

What you will do:

• Responsibilities include overseeing the collection, analysis, management, and interpretation of oceanographic survey data, producing detailed geological and geotechnical reports, and developing geologic and geo-acoustic models
• Strategizes the deployment of seafloor infrastructure and serves as a subject matter expert by analyzing existing data to identify gaps, recommending optimal survey techniques, assessing and mitigating risks at selected seafloor sites, and curating a comprehensive database of survey data.
• Involves tackling multidisciplinary challenges by working both independently and as part of a team, with ample opportunities for leadership. Scientific findings are presented at internal stakeholder meetings and published in technical reports.
• Advises leadership on advancements in database algorithms, data acquisition and processing systems, and hardware/software upgrades
• Conceives and defines solutions to technical problems which are typically difficult to define, require unconventional or novel approaches, require application of engineering and/ or scientific principles in significant areas or research or development for which no closely related precedents exist, and/or present other features of more than average difficulty
• Writes or is major contributing author on scientific papers, journal articles or reports and/or prepares contract documents and reviews reports pertaining to area of technical expertise OR contributes inventions, new designs or techniques which are of material significance in the solution of problems
• Prepares & presents own and/or team technical results, orally or in writing, to varied laboratory, scientific, industry & government audiences

Qualifications

What you will need:

• 5 years with BS/BA; 3 years with MS/MA; 0 years with PhD
• Secret security clearance
• Must be highly skilled in modeling software including MATLAB and python
• Ability to perform independent research on geological, geophysical, geochemical, geotechnical, and sedimentological characterization of the seafloor
• Ability to develop geological and geo-acoustic models to challenges encountered during Navy acoustic system performance prediction and acoustic model development or mine warfare/mine countermeasures
• Knowledge of geophysical data collection, reduction, and interpretation techniques from current state-of-the-art acoustic sensing systems, including towed and hull-mounted multibeam sonar, sub-bottom profiling, and seismic systems
• Knowledge of in-situ and laboratory sediment characterization methods
• Knowledge of magnetic and gravity data analysis and modeling
• Skilled in hydrographic, geographic information, and geologic interpretation software including QPS Fledermaus/CARIS, Hypack/Sonarwiz, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Ability to work with a team, and to communicate in person and in writing

Desired:

• Extensive knowledge and experience in marine geophysics and geology, with proficiency in designing geophysical surveys and utilizing geotechnical techniques
• Experience with tools such as multi-beam echo sounders, sub-bottom profilers, sidescan/synthetic aperture sonar instruments, ROV operations, and sediment characterization techniques in both in situ and laboratory settings is essential
• Familiarity with underwater acoustics, physical oceanography, and marine biology is advantageous
• This role requires a multidisciplinary expertise in hydro-chemical, sedimentary, and geological processes.
• Skilled in analyzing sediment characteristics and interpreting seafloor interactions in acoustic models, particularly for Navy acoustic system performance predictions and surveillance operations planning.

Target Salary Range$86,000 - $138,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individuals experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.