MDL R&D Opportunities

The MDL consists of five (5) branches which conduct applied research. The applied research is aimed toward the development of new and/or improved:

1. Diagnostic and prognostic weather information

2. Weather data depiction and utilization

3. Warning and forecast product preparation

4. Data and forecast evaluation

Projects involve modern physical, dynamical, and statistical techniques implemented on operational computers.

Mesoscale Prediction Branch (MPB)

Develops techniques which provide objective shortrange (124 hour) forecast guidance for all weather elements in both routine public and aviation products. MPB also maintains the National Digital Forecast Database (NDFD). A database from which products may be produced which offer high resolution and maximum flexibility to customers and partners. MPB develops techniques for initialization and interactive interpretation of NDFD sensible weather fields which facilitate forecast coordination among NWS field offices.

Statistical Modeling Branch (SMB)

Generates a full set of statistical weather guidance products. These statistical guidance products are generated using statistical interpretation of numerical weather prediction model output. The statistical weather guidance provides forecasts from a few hours to a week or more in advance. Emphasis is placed on high priority weather elements including quantitative precipitation and visibility at airports.

Decision Assistance Branch (DAB)

Develops and implements techniques to synthesize, display, and manipulate data and guidance from various sources. Such methods and displays incorporate algorithms and lead the forecaster through a decision process appropriate for the specific weather situation to be addressed. Techniques for automatically monitoring weather observations and forecasts are developed and implemented to alert the forecaster whenever there is a need to update warning and forecast products, especially for dangerous weather situations.

Product Generation Branch (PGB)

Designs, develops, and tests applications for use at NWS forecast offices. This includes:

1. Implementing interactive techniques to produce a digital database from which forecast products are automatically generated

2. Developing applications which support routine operations at Weather Forecast Offices.

The Interactive Forecast Preparation System (IFPS) is an example of an interactive application the PGB has developed.

Evaluation Branch (EB)

Evaluates the quality of data, models, and forecasts. Develops techniques to assess the quality of observations from various sources, including ASOS and cooperative networks. Uses archives of observations and forecasts to produce verification scores in support of the National Verification Program. NWS coastal marine modeling of storm surges (SLOSH), extratropical storm surges and coastal waves also fall within the scope of the EB.

Contact Information

Student Career Experience Program Coordinator

Meteorological Development Laboratory

1325 East-West Hwy Room 10364

Silver Spring, MD 20910

FAX: (301) 713-9316

World-wide Web Site:

Purpose

Provide college students with an opportunity to alternate full-time paid employment with periods of full-time study. The work activity is related to a student’s field of study (i.e., one of the majors listed below under Requirements).

Student Benefits

Provides the student with a professional work experience, before graduation

Helps the student consolidate career decisions and focus on specific career interests

Provide the student with an opportunity to make contacts for potential employment following graduation

Allows the student to apply knowledge gained in the classroom

Helps the student to build on his/her self-confidence and leadership skills

Requirements

Student is enrolled in a meteorology, oceanography, physical science, physics, math, or computer science degree program (Student MUST have completed 1 year of college)

Student has at least a 2.0 grade point average overall, with a 2.5 average in his/her major

Students must be able to commit to a total of 12 months of employment

Work periods will be at least 2 months long and will correspond to a student’s semester, quarter, or trimester not just to summer vacations

Student must be a U.S. citizen

Student’s institution must have a signed NOAA/COOP agreement on file

Requirements (Continued)

Although knowledge of computer programming languages is not mandatory, familiarity with LINUX, FORTRAN, C/C++ typify the successful candidate

Salary and Benefits

Beginning salary GS-4 to GS-9 depending upon the number of completed semesters

Possible conversion to permanent appointment depending on availability of position and satisfactory completion of his/her degree.

Promotion to next pay grade after completion of work session and additional courses (student must maintain good academic standing)

Paid travel between school and work site at start and end of work session

Earned annual and sick leave

Government contribution to life and health insurance

Possible 120-day work period after graduation

How to Apply

FAX, e-mail or mail a resume and recent transcript to the SCEP Coordinator. The FAX number is (301) 713-9316. E-mail should be sent to Carl.McCalla@noaa.gov. The mailing address is in the contact section of this brochure.

The Next Step

Submit a completed SCEP application, including a proposed work schedule, to SCEP coordinator. The application is available at the SCEP web site listed in the contact section of the brochure.

Contact the Cooperative Education (CO-OP) Coordinator at your school or within your department for local requirements of a COOP position.

Send all information to the NWS through your CO-OP Education Department to arrive at MDL by the first day of September or February.

The Hiring Process

After a review of your academic performance and work skills, you may be contacted by MDL to set up an interview. If you are unable to visit the work site for the interview, the interview will be conducted by phone.

As part of the interview process, you’ll be asked to provide several references. Therefore, select individuals who are familiar with your academic, computer, and work skills.

If selected, you will be contacted by phone and in writing.

Housing arrangements are the student’s responsibility; however, the SCEP coordinator at MDL may be able to assist the student by providing the names of others wishing to share living quarters.