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Physical Scientist

Axiom Consultants
Sterling, VA Full Time
POSTED ON 6/15/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/12/2026

Axiom is seeking a Physical Scientist to join our team in providing technical support services to the Sterling Field Support Center (SFSC). The Physical Scientist will assist with testing and evaluation, and contribute to the development and execution of meteorological evaluations related to upper air observation.

The Physical Scientist will:

  • Obtain an upper air observing certification within 30 days of employment.
    • Long-term employment contingent on meeting this requirement
  • Document procedures, prepare technical reports, and update support materials for training and reference.
  • Troubleshoots problems and makes recommendations for corrective action.
  • Implement processes and procedures to complete various test and write final reports.
  • Conduct test and evaluation activities of meteorological observing systems.
  • Prepare test plans and reports for new sensors, systems, or software.
  • Perform the installation and checkout of meteorological equipment used operationally by the NWS and in support of the SFSC test and evaluation program.
  • Performs analysis of meteorological data to determine validity and quality of the data.
  • Support and maintain instrumentation used in upper air balloon launches.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, Physical Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • Familiarity with meteorological instrumentation, particularly upper air observation systems such as radiosondes.
  • Experience in the setup, configuration, and design of scientific tests.
  • Proficiency in standard office and technical software (e.g., MS Excel, instrumentation data interfaces, ticketing systems).
  • Background with LabVIEW, MATLAB, or Python.
  • Demonstrate experience in the installation and maintenance of varying instrumentation and equipment (preferably meteorological).
  • Strong background with the use of antenna and ground system maintenance
  • Working knowledge of measuring meteorological phenomena with scientific equipment and instrumentation.
  • Strong analytical and diagnostic skills with attention to detail in data validation and reporting.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills for technical support and documentation.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in a dynamic environment.

Axiom offers competitive compensation packages including comprehensive medical/dental/life insurance and matching 401(k) contribution.



Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Salary.com Estimation for Physical Scientist in Sterling, VA
$94,004 to $131,883
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