Solar System Research Support
Apply NowCompany: Computational Physics, Inc.
Location: Washington, DC 20011
Description:
Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is seeking a PhD physicist or astronomer with expertise in solar system dynamics to provide support for research and analysis activities related to the use and publication of solar system ephemerides at the United States Naval Observatory (USNO).
The USNO is responsible for the production and dissemination of Precise Time, Astrometry, and Earth Orientation Parameters (EOP) to the Department of Defense (DoD) and other branches of the U.S. government for use in navigation. Public versions of these parameters support navigation for users world-wide. USNO, as the DoD Celestial Reference Frame (CRF) manager, is charged with collecting, managing, validating and disseminating celestial data. USNO is the authoritative source for all celestial data for the DoD. The USNO Nautical Almanac Office Department in the CRF Department is responsible for the technical development and production of annual publications in support of celestial navigation (i.e., The Astronomical Almanac, The Nautical Almanac, and The Air Almanac.)
About the role: CPI is seeking a physicist or astronomer to support development of mission products for the USNO Nautical Almanac Office. USNO currently uses JPL's DE440 planetary and lunar ephemerides in mission products. This and other recent cislunar ephemerides releases need to be analyzed along with observations of the Moon for accuracies and standards. Other studies relating to cislunar or solar system dynamics may also occur. The position will be located at the USNO in Washington, DC. A small amount of travel may be required. Partial telework may be permitted in accordance with applicable Navy and Observatory guidance in effect at the time.
Qualifications:
About CPI: We love science! We study the physical properties of the Earth and our atmosphere, neighboring planets, and the sun. We make the study of science practical by translating our findings into products, both hardware and software, that make our customer's lives easier and better. CPI has served various U.S. Government agencies, universities, international science organizations, prime contractors, as well as commercial customers for 40 years. CPI is an employee-owned company - our team members receive company stock. Employee ownership motivates and empowers increased productivity, contribution to the longevity of the business, improved retention, and enhanced employee engagement.
Why Work for Us?
Benefits:
CPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. https://www.cpi.com/index.html#contact
The USNO is responsible for the production and dissemination of Precise Time, Astrometry, and Earth Orientation Parameters (EOP) to the Department of Defense (DoD) and other branches of the U.S. government for use in navigation. Public versions of these parameters support navigation for users world-wide. USNO, as the DoD Celestial Reference Frame (CRF) manager, is charged with collecting, managing, validating and disseminating celestial data. USNO is the authoritative source for all celestial data for the DoD. The USNO Nautical Almanac Office Department in the CRF Department is responsible for the technical development and production of annual publications in support of celestial navigation (i.e., The Astronomical Almanac, The Nautical Almanac, and The Air Almanac.)
About the role: CPI is seeking a physicist or astronomer to support development of mission products for the USNO Nautical Almanac Office. USNO currently uses JPL's DE440 planetary and lunar ephemerides in mission products. This and other recent cislunar ephemerides releases need to be analyzed along with observations of the Moon for accuracies and standards. Other studies relating to cislunar or solar system dynamics may also occur. The position will be located at the USNO in Washington, DC. A small amount of travel may be required. Partial telework may be permitted in accordance with applicable Navy and Observatory guidance in effect at the time.
Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in astronomy or physics (A master's degree plus five years of experience or a bachelor's degree plus ten years of experience can substitute for Ph.D.)
- Experience with Python, Fortran, and/or C programming is required.
- Knowledge of Solar System astronomy, time scales, and celestial mechanics is beneficial.
- At least one year of experience working with Solar System dynamics (e.g., planetary systems, dynamical models, solar system ephemerides) is beneficial.
- Experience with NAIF spice navigation, or other ephemerides systems, for planets and spacecraft is beneficial.
- Experience with Lunar science data or knowledge of Lunar Laser Ranging (LLR) experiments is beneficial.
- Experience with git or other version control systems is desirable.
- Understanding of software development practices and principles is desirable.
- Ability to obtain and maintain Secret level security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required by our contract. An active clearance is not required to begin work.
About CPI: We love science! We study the physical properties of the Earth and our atmosphere, neighboring planets, and the sun. We make the study of science practical by translating our findings into products, both hardware and software, that make our customer's lives easier and better. CPI has served various U.S. Government agencies, universities, international science organizations, prime contractors, as well as commercial customers for 40 years. CPI is an employee-owned company - our team members receive company stock. Employee ownership motivates and empowers increased productivity, contribution to the longevity of the business, improved retention, and enhanced employee engagement.
Why Work for Us?
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.
- Positive, upbeat, and transparent company culture with opportunities for self-development and career advancement.
- Employee-owned small business that allows team members to learn from each other and take ownership.
Benefits:
- 401(k), Profit Sharing and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- Disability insurance (short-term and long-term)
- Flexible schedule
- Flexible spending account
- Health, Dental and Vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental Leave
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
CPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. https://www.cpi.com/index.html#contact