Senior Ocean Science Program Manager (Chief Scientist) in United States at Jobgether
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Job Description
This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Senior Ocean Science Program Manager (Chief Scientist) based in United States.
This is a senior-level scientific leadership role operating at the intersection of ocean science, program management, and international coordination. You will act as the principal technical authority guiding large-scale federal ocean monitoring and ocean acidification programs with global reach and scientific significance. The role blends advanced research expertise with strategic program oversight, ensuring that complex scientific initiatives are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with national priorities. You will work closely with government stakeholders, international scientific bodies, and multidisciplinary expert teams to translate cutting-edge oceanographic research into actionable policy and operational systems. This position requires both deep subject-matter mastery and the ability to lead high-impact, multi-institutional collaborations. It is ideal for a scientist-leader who thrives in mission-driven environments where science directly informs global environmental stewardship.
- Serve as the senior technical authority overseeing the planning, execution, and delivery of large-scale ocean science programs.
- Manage end-to-end program performance, ensuring deliverables meet quality standards, timelines, and budgetary requirements.
- Provide high-level scientific and strategic interface with NOAA leadership, federal stakeholders, and international ocean science organizations.
- Lead the development of innovative scientific approaches for ocean observing systems, carbon cycle research, and ocean acidification studies.
- Direct solutions for complex and unprecedented technical challenges in oceanographic science and data integration.
- Oversee integration of regional oceanographic and biogeochemical datasets into operational modeling and forecasting systems.
- Establish and guide scientific working groups to standardize methodologies, data quality control, and measurement frameworks.
- Supervise subject matter experts and technical teams, ensuring alignment with federal compliance and program objectives.
- Lead scientific communications, including congressional reporting, strategic documentation, and public-facing materials.
- Develop long-term strategic roadmaps and program plans for federal review and approval.
- Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in Oceanography, Marine Science, Atmospheric Science, or related scientific discipline.
- 15+ years of overall professional experience, including at least 10+ years managing complex scientific or technical programs.
- Deep expertise in ocean science domains such as ocean acidification, carbon cycling, and global ocean observing systems (e.g., Argo, GO-SHIP).
- Demonstrated ability to lead international scientific collaborations and represent programs in senior governmental or interagency forums.
- Strong scientific leadership reputation, recognized as a subject matter authority internally and externally.
- Experience working with federal research programs, including grants, NOFO processes, and post-award compliance.
- Exceptional scientific writing and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex science for diverse audiences.
- Familiarity with FOARAM Act compliance and federal ocean science policy frameworks preferred.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a low-risk federal security clearance.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally, including participation in at-sea research deployments.
- Salary range: $117,000 – $124,000 annually
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Short-term and long-term disability coverage
- Life insurance benefits
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Paid time off and holiday pay
- Opportunities for professional development and internal career advancement
- Exposure to high-impact national and international ocean science initiatives
- Flexible work arrangement with remote eligibility and telework options.