Mesonet Director

2 months ago


Norman, Oklahoma, United States InsideHigherEd Full time
About the Position

The Oklahoma Climatological Survey (OCS) is seeking a highly skilled and experienced individual to fill the position of Director for the Oklahoma Mesonet. The Mesonet is a statewide network comprising over 110 automated environmental monitoring stations, providing real-time weather and climate data to support various stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities
  • Leadership and Mentoring: Provide strategic guidance and oversight to the Mesonet Team Leaders, ensuring the mission of delivering accurate data and valuable products to customers is fulfilled.
  • Strategic Vision: Develop and communicate a long-term vision for the Mesonet, driving its evolution and growth.
  • Scientific Integrity: Oversee the scientific integrity of the data collected by the Mesonet.
  • Operations Management: Delegate responsibilities and authority for day-to-day operations, including sensor calibrations, field operations, and software development.
  • Consultant Coordination: Define and manage the role of any Mesonet consultants.
  • Infrastructure Planning: Plan for enhancements and improvements to the network, calibration laboratory, and associated IT infrastructure.
  • Effective Communication: Communicate evolving needs and challenges to the OCS Director and the Mesonet Steering Committee. Disseminate information about Mesonet operations to scientists, customers, and the public through presentations, emails, and other channels.
  • Work Environment: Foster a healthy and stable work environment that encourages creativity among employees.
  • Grant and Contract Collaboration: Collaborate on writing and securing Mesonet-related grants and contracts.
Requirements
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in scientific research and minimum of 3 years of experience in weather network design and implementation.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience: Experience calibrating meteorological instruments or maintaining field instrumentation.
  • Public Outreach: Strong public outreach skills.
  • Technical Expertise: Systems administration and web development expertise.
  • Advanced Education: Master's degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Research Experience: Experience publishing refereed journal articles.
  • Grant Writing: Experience obtaining competitive external grants or contracts.
About the University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures.