Oceanographic High-Frequency Radar Technician

Oceanographic High-Frequency Radar Technician

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Oceanographic High-Frequency Radar Technician.

Position Details

Location: John C. Stennis Space Center

1020 Balch Blvd

Stennis Space Center, Mississippi, 39529

United States

Division: Marine Science

Position Type: Staff

Employment Status: Full Time

Grant Funded: Yes

Salary Range: 39,816.00 - 46,842.00

Pay Grade: E08

Posting Close Date: July 3, 2026

Special Instructions to Applicants:

This position is located at the NASA John C. Stennis Space Center, which is a "federal city" that boasts the world's largest concentration of marine scientists. The successful candidate will be required to pass a NASA background security check as well as a USM employment background check. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Oceanographic High-Frequency Radar Technician is responsible for the independent operation, evaluation, advancement, and strategic oversight of High Frequency Radar (HFR) observing systems supporting oceanographic research, real-time data delivery, and coastal monitoring initiatives. This position applies advanced scientific and technical expertise to develop, evaluate, and refine radar data processing methodologies, quality assurance standards, and operational strategies that support the scientific integrity and reliability of HFR systems and associated data products. The position exercises substantial discretion and independent judgment in evaluating system performance, interpreting complex scientific and technical data, identifying operational improvements, and recommending solutions to enhance data quality, system functionality, and research outcomes. The role serves as a technical and scientific resource for HFR operations and contributes to research initiatives, collaborative scientific efforts, technical reporting, and publications supporting the mission of the ocean observing program.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Independently operate, evaluate, maintain, and optimize High Frequency Radar (HFR) systems, including antenna configuration, signal transmission, remote site management, and system performance analysis.
2. Develop, implement, evaluate, and refine radar data processing methodologies, quality assurance protocols, and analytical procedures to improve data reliability, scientific accuracy, and operational effectiveness.
3. Analyze and interpret complex radar datasets to generate scientifically valid surface current products, near real-time mapping products, and technical assessments supporting research and operational objectives.
4. Exercise independent judgment in diagnosing technical issues, evaluating system performance trends, identifying operational deficiencies, and recommending corrective actions and long-term improvements.
5. Serve as a technical subject matter resource regarding HFR systems, data quality standards, operational best practices, and scientific applications associated with coastal ocean observing initiatives.
6. Contribute to research initiatives, collaborative scientific projects, technical reports, presentations, grant-related activities, and peer-reviewed publications associated with oceanographic monitoring and data analysis.
7. Collaborate with researchers, faculty, external partners, and operational stakeholders to support data utilization, scientific objectives, and advancement of ocean observing capabilities.
8. Provide technical guidance and training related to HFR systems, data processing methodologies, and operational procedures.
9. Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in oceanography, physical science, engineering, meteorology, environmental science, physics, or 5+ years related scientific field.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and scientific reasoning
• Knowledge of scientific research methodologies and technical data analysis
• Ability to interpret and evaluate complex scientific and operational data
• Strong technical writing and presentation skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with scientific, technical, and operational stakeholders
• Knowledge of MATLAB, Python, GIS, or similar scientific programming and analytical tools
• Ability to develop and refine operational and analytical methodologies
• Ability to manage multiple technical and research priorities simultaneously

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in oceanography, physical science, engineering, or a related field. Experience with coastal ocean observing systems, radar technologies, scientific data analysis, MATLAB, Python, GIS applications, and scientific programming methodologies.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.