Working at SSEC
Come join us if you are passionate about solving real-world problems whether through coding to visualize environmental data in novel ways or calibrating an instrument to refine its atmospheric-sensing capabilities or leading cutting-edge research to study Earth’s atmosphere.
We are a world leader in atmospheric research and instrument development that is firmly grounded in our role as the birthplace of satellite meteorology. And we are proud of our inventive, creative and collaborative staff.
We’re always looking for talented individuals with expertise in:
- weather and climate research,
- satellite remote sensing,
- data science and data visualization,
- engineering and instrument development,
- computer science and software development,
- grants management and administration,
- science communication and
- education, outreach and training.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison is one of the largest employers in Dane County with a vibrant, international workforce made up of people who, like you, are committed to making our planet a better place.
If you’re interested, let’s talk. Together we can raise awareness, preparedness and resilience to changes in weather and climate.
Current Openings
Staff
- No available positions at this time.
Undergraduate Students
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About openings
SSEC hires undergraduate students as interns or hourly employees from a range of academic backgrounds. If you possess a knack for web development, information technology, atmospheric science, administrative support and you don’t see a position listed here, please contact us because we might be looking for someone with your skill set.
Graduate Students
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About openings
Each year, SSEC investigators hire research assistants to contribute to ongoing programs in weather and climate research, satellite remote sensing, software engineering, data visualization and science communication, among others. Please contact us for more information and to let us know what your interests are.
- No available positions at this time.
Postdoctoral Positions
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About openings
SSEC invites inquiries from individuals interested in exploring postdoctoral opportunities. Postdoctoral fellows develop research projects in collaboration with SSEC scientists who provide mentorship and may have complementary research interests. Postdocs have the freedom to pursue their own research interests and are responsible for the design and execution of their projects.
If you’re interested in a postdoc at SSEC, please send us an email telling us about yourself and your research interests.
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Position Requirements: Applicants must hold a PhD in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or a closely related field, or be on track to complete their PhD by spring 2026. A strong background in satellite meteorology, radiative transfer, or remote sensing is required. Additional desirable skills include: i) competency in FORTRAN or python programming, ii) experience working with large geophysical datasets, and iii) familiarity with geospatial data analysis and tools. We seek candidates who demonstrate strong critical-thinking abilities, are able to work effectively and independently, and approach research tasks with rigor and enthusiasm. Strong written and oral communication skills, and the ability to thrive within a collaborative environment, are essential. Position Duties: The Space Science and Engineering Center is recruiting a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to advance the capabilities of the Next Generation Fire System (NGFS), which is a satellite-based fire detection system being developed by scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The NGFS is an innovative method designed to deliver timely and actionable information to end users such as incident meteorologists and firefighting agencies. The successful candidate will work directly with Dr. Jason Otkin and other members of the NGFS research team to refine the detection methodology with a focus on adapting it for use with very high-resolution satellite sensors that introduce unique challenges such as reduced spectral coverage and increased sensitivity to cloud-related scattering. This position is fully funded for one year with possible renewal in subsequent years. It is ideal for researchers who would like to deepen and translate their meteorological and remote sensing skills into impactful, real-world solutions that reduce wildfire-related risks to people and property. For more information, please see: https://cimss.ssec.wisc.edu/ngfs/ https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-unveils-powerful-convergence-of-ai-and-science-with-revolutionary-next-generation-fire-system Please submit a cover letter, CV, and list of three professional references to Denise Weidner at denise.weidner@ssec.wisc.edu. In your cover letter, please summarize your research experience and describe your relevant interests. The start date is flexible but is expected to be no later than July 1, 2026.