Hiring: Head of Atmospheric Research - Onsite in San Francisco, CA Company: Roadrunner Venture Studios Location: San Francisco, CA Job Posted Time: 2026-09-10 12:13:11 Employment Type: Remote Target Skills & Keywords : AI, C++, Dart, Fortran, Linux, Machine Learning, Python About the job Required Skills: •Roadrunner Venture Studios is recruiting a Head of Atmospheric Research for a portfolio company developing rainfall enhancement technology. •Lead the atmospheric science function and connect scientific validation with operational deployment. The scope includes meteorology, atmospheric prediction, modeling, data assimilation, field-data review, and scientific evaluation of deployments. •Atmospheric modeling is a major part of a broader mandate. You will set scientific direction, work hands-on, and build the team needed to support a growing deployment program. •This role includes significant equity. •This is an early-stage startup building something that has not been built before. Expect weeks of 50 to 60 hours, sometimes more, with frequent travel and regular weekend work. Priorities will change quickly. If this working environment does not excite you, this job is probably not for you. •Set the scientific strategy for evaluating atmospheric conditions, selecting deployment windows, interpreting results, and improving operating criteria. •Integrate forecasts, historical datasets, soundings, radar, satellite imagery, surface observations, and field-sensor data into clear scientific assessments. •Review data before, during, and after deployments. Compare predicted and observed conditions, identify important differences, and communicate conclusions and uncertainty. Qualifications: •Bachelor's degree or higher in atmospheric science, meteorology, physics, computer science, data science, or a related field. An advanced degree is preferred. •Broad experience in atmospheric science, meteorology, weather prediction, numerical weather prediction, or atmospheric research. •Extensive experience configuring, running, and analyzing WRF. Experience contributing to WRF development is valuable. •Strong knowledge of boundary layer meteorology, cloud microphysics, convective initiation, precipitation processes, and mesoscale atmospheric dynamics. •Prior experience with artificial intelligence and machine learning weather modeling, weather emulators, or related atmospheric applications. •Deep experience with meteorological datasets and formats such as NetCDF and GRIB. •Strong Python skills and working knowledge of Fortran, C++, or similar scientific computing languages. •Demonstrated capacity to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively in a fast-changing startup environment. •Hands-on experience deploying, operating, troubleshooting, or interpreting data from meteorological field equipment. Compensation: •Flexible work environment (work from home / hybrid options) •This role includes significant equity Interested candidates, please apply directly through the job posting on company's career page or try via AI auto apply on this platform. Don't miss this opportunity to join a forward-thinking team!