Senior Geoscientist (Geophysicist) – Modeling & Simulation

Responsibilities

We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Geoscientist (Geophysicist) to support critical modeling and simulation efforts in support of conventional weapons effects and weapons penetration programs. This will be an onsite position in Albuquerque, NM.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and execute geology characterization and penetration models to support conventional weapons effects assessments and penetration testing programs
• Conduct multiphysics modeling and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses to simulate weapon-soil/rock interactions across diverse geologic environments
• Analyze and predict ground shock propagation, energy coupling, and attenuation through varied subsurface media to support lethality and effectiveness evaluations
• Perform subsurface characterization studies utilizing geophysical data, borehole records, and geomechanical testing results to establish representative site models
• Contribute to the development and refinement of conventional weapons effects models, ensuring technical accuracy and alignment with current empirical data and testing results
• Support weapons penetration testing initiatives by providing geophysical analysis, site characterization deliverables, and post-test data interpretation
• Author and review technical reports, white papers, and briefings for government sponsors, program managers, and peer technical reviewers

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Geophysics, Geology, Earth Sciences, or a closely related technical discipline; Master's or Ph.D. strongly preferred.

• 10+ years of relevant professional experience in geophysical modeling, subsurface characterization, or applied geomechanics within a defense, national laboratory, or research environment
• Demonstrated expertise in ground shock modeling, energy coupling analysis, and the behavior of geologic materials under dynamic loading conditions
• Hands‑on experience with multiphysics simulation tools (e.g., ABAQUS, LS‑DYNA, AUTODYN, CTH, or equivalent hydrocode/finite element platforms)
• Proficiency in subsurface characterization methodologies, including interpretation of seismic, geologic, and geomechanical data sets
• US Citizen with an Active Top Secret / SCI security clearance (required at time of application)
• Strong technical communication skills with demonstrated ability to produce high‑quality reports and briefings for government and senior leadership audiences

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Geophysics, Applied Mechanics, or related discipline with a focus on computational or experimental geomechanics
• Prior experience working within a DoW, DOE National Laboratory, or defense contractor environment supporting weapons effects, terminal ballistics, or underground facility defeat programs
• Familiarity with DTRA, AFRL, or Army ERDC technical standards and modeling frameworks for weapons effects and penetration analysis
• Experience with geophysical field data acquisition, including seismic surveys, borehole logging, or in‑situ stress measurements
• Knowledge of classified weapons effects databases and associated penetration prediction tools (e.g., PENCRV3D, SAMPLL, or equivalent)

Remote/Hybrid Status

Remote or hybrid status is subject to change based on Noblis and/or government requirements.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, age, national origin, religion, physical or mental disability, pregnancy/childbirth and related medical conditions, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

EEO Statements

If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact us.

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Benefits

At Noblis we recognize and reward your contributions, provide you with growth opportunities, and support your total well‑being. Offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, and work‑life programs. Full‑time and part‑time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in our benefit programs.

Compensation

Compensation at Noblis is determined by various factors, including but not limited to the combination of education, certifications, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, internal and external equity, location, clearance level, as well as contract‑specific affordability, organizational requirements and applicable employment laws. The projected compensation range for this position is based on full time status. For part time or on‑call staff, compensation is proportionately adjusted based on hours worked. While monetary compensation is important, it’s just one component of Noblis’ total compensation package.

Posted Salary Range

USD $144,720.00 – $226,195.00 per year.