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Hydrologist -- Frequency Analysis Expert

Who we are: First Street is the industry standard for physical climate risk data. We use transparent and peer-reviewed methodologies to calculate the past, present, and future climate risk for every property in the world. We started eight years ago by working with the world’s leading climate scientists to create groundbreaking, climate-adjusted, property specific models and haven’t stopped. 

Our mission: We exist to connect climate change to financial risk

Our data: We create physics-based, deterministic models of flooding, wildfire and hurricanes, and advanced statistical models of extreme heat, air quality, drought, hail, severe convective storms, winter storms, and more. All of this data is used to create property-level financial risk metrics and macroeconomic variables to quantify the impacts of climate change. 

Our customers: We empower governments at the highest levels to make smart regulations, businesses to avoid bad investments, and everyday Americans to understand their personal risk from climate change. We are relied on every day by:

  • Agencies ranging from the U.S. Department of Treasury to Fannie Mae

  • The world's biggest banks such as Bank of America and Wells Fargo 

  • Institutional investors like Nuveen and Blackstone 

  • Millions of users on Redfin, Realtor.com, Homes.com, and more 

We believe:  Our work needs to match the pace and scope of the climate problem. This is why we have invested tens of millions of dollars into our science, data, people, and products and have raised tens of millions more to move even faster.  Read more about our culture here.

Come join us and use your talents to create solutions to address humanity's biggest problem.

Team & Role Overview:

We are looking for a Hydrological Scientist with a specialization in flood analysis and modeling to join our team. This person will need to have several years of postdoctoral professional experience and the ability to lead projects independently.

What you’ll do:

  • Conduct hydrological analysis and modeling to evaluate extreme flood events and their impacts.

  • Develop models for extreme events addressing regional flood frequency, precipitation Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) relationships, and water level frequency analysis.

  • Develop and operate the First Street Flood Model to produce high-resolution hazard maps at national and regional scales.

  • Innovate and implement new methodologies to enhance flood model performance and assess flood risks with high spatial resolution.

  • Oversee model production processes, including quality control and ongoing evaluation/validation.

  • Identify, acquire, and integrate new data inputs and methodologies into the First Street Flood Model to improve accuracy and usability.

  • Manage workflows for model and data processing using commercial cloud platforms and local cluster computing resources.

What you’ll need:

  • An advanced degree (e.g., M.S. or Ph.D.) in hydrology, water resources engineering, or a related field.

  • Strong foundation in understanding and modeling hydrological cycles and extreme events enhanced by climate change.

  • Strong knowledge of probability, statistics, and extreme value analysis related to precipitation and flood frequency.

  • Strong experience in handling and analyzing time series data and gridded weather variable datasets.

  • Strong knowledge of climate projection data such as CMIP6

  • Demonstrated experience in flood modeling and risk assessment.

  • Proficiency in big data analysis, high-capacity processing workflows, machine learning, and cloud computing.

  • Advanced programming skills using both compiled and scripted languages (e.g., Python, Matlab, UNIX shell, C++, Fortran, SQL) and GIS software (e.g., QGIS, ArcGIS).

  • Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment.

What will make you stand out:

  • Skills/Experience in developing large-scale extreme value models.

  • Skills/Experience in modeling inland, coastal, and/or compound flooding events.

  • Skills/Experience in creating satellite-based flood inundation maps for validation and calibration purposes.

  • Experience authoring peer-reviewed scientific publications

How we work: 

  • Impact: We only focus on things that move the needle 

  • Drive: We are driven by the role we play in connecting climate change to financial risk 

  • Ownership: This is our company and we act accordingly

  • Urgency: We move quickly because the world depends on it 

  • Resilience: We have a growth mindset in all that we do

What we offer: 

  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience 

  • Ownership interest in the company via Employee Stock Option Plan 

  • Hybrid Schedule with in-office work days on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 

  • 15 vacation days along with 13 company holidays and 10 sick days 

  • Health benefits covered at 100% for employee or a significant contribution for family plans 

  • Vision and dental benefits with partial employee contribution

  • 12 weeks of paid parental leave 

  • Access to One Medical, Teledoc, HealthAdvocate, Kindbody, and Talkspace

  • Company 401k program 

  • Commuter benefits 

  • Life Insurance

  • Tech startup environment 

  • Weekly team meals and an office stocked with coffee and snacks 

  • Working on the world’s biggest issue with other passionate professionals 

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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What You Should Know About Hydrologist -- Frequency Analysis Expert, First Street

Join First Street as a Hydrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert and be at the forefront of tackling climate change by impacting financial risk assessments in New York City! We pride ourselves on being a standard-bearer for physical climate risk data, and we're looking for someone with your expertise in hydrological analysis to help us innovate. This isn’t just about crunching numbers; it’s about playing a pivotal role in changing how businesses and governments perceive climate risks. You will work on developing and implementing sophisticated models that evaluate extreme flood events and their effects on properties. With your advanced knowledge in hydrology and statistics, you will enhance our First Street Flood Model to generate high-resolution hazard maps. You'll also gain the chance to lead project initiatives, bringing together cross-disciplinary teams, and contribute your insights to model and data processing workflows. Our work influences decisions made by top banks, government agencies, and real estate platforms, meaning you’ll have a direct effect on millions of lives by helping them understand their climate risks. We thrive in a dynamic environment, so if you're an independent thinker with a passion for creating innovative solutions against the backdrop of climate change, we can't wait to meet you and see how your talents can shine at First Street!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Hydrologist -- Frequency Analysis Expert Role at First Street
What are the responsibilities of a Hydrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert at First Street?

As a Hydrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert at First Street, your primary responsibilities include conducting hydrological analyses and modeling extreme flood events, developing and enhancing our First Street Flood Model, creating high-resolution hazard maps, and innovating methodologies for assessing flood risks. You'll also manage data processes, ensuring the accuracy and quality of our models while integrating new data inputs to improve our work's usability.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the Hydrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert position at First Street?

To apply for the Hydrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert position at First Street, candidates need an advanced degree such as an M.S. or Ph.D. in hydrology, water resources engineering, or related fields. Strong foundational knowledge in hydrological cycles, probability, statistics, and extensive experience with flood modeling techniques are also essential. Proficiency in programming and big data analysis is crucial to thrive in this role.

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What programming skills are required for the Hydrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert job at First Street?

For the Hydrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert role at First Street, candidates should have advanced programming skills using various languages, including Python, MATLAB, C++, and SQL. Familiarity with GIS software such as QGIS or ArcGIS is also essential. These skills will enable you to handle data efficiently, develop models, and contribute to high-capacity processing workflows employed at First Street.

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What is the workplace culture like at First Street for the Hydrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert?

The workplace culture at First Street encourages ownership, urgency, and resilience. As a Hyrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert, you will be joining a passionate team focused on impactful solutions to climate change. We value collaboration, inclusivity, and a growth mindset, making it an exciting and rewarding environment for professionals eager to make a difference.

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What benefits does First Street offer to its Hydrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert employees?

First Street offers an attractive benefits package for its Hydrologist - Frequency Analysis Expert employees. This includes a competitive salary, stock options, a hybrid work schedule, generous vacation, and sick leave, comprehensive health, vision, and dental coverage. Additional perks include paid parental leave, access to wellness resources, and a vibrant office environment fueled by teamwork and collaboration.

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Common Interview Questions for Hydrologist -- Frequency Analysis Expert
Can you explain your experience with flood modeling techniques and their relevance to this role?

In your response, detail specific flood modeling projects you've worked on, highlighting the methodologies used and the impact of those models. Discuss how your technical skills and knowledge of hydrological cycles apply to real-world scenarios and align with First Street's mission.

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What programming languages are you proficient in, and how have you used them in your past work?

Discuss your proficiency in relevant programming languages like Python, MATLAB, or C++. Provide examples of how you've utilized these tools for data analysis, model development, or cloud computing in previous projects, emphasizing your technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.

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How do you approach quality control in your modeling processes?

Illustrate your systematic approach to quality control, including steps taken to validate your models and ensure data accuracy. Mention specific techniques you employ, from data cleaning to peer review and ongoing evaluation, reflecting your commitment to precision and reliability in your work.

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Describe your experience with integrating new data inputs into existing models.

Share specific instances where you've successfully integrated new datasets into your modeling frameworks. Discuss the challenges faced, the integration methods you employed, and the outcome, showcasing your adaptability and innovative thinking.

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How do you stay updated on advancements in hydrology and climate science?

Talk about the resources you utilize, whether academic journals, conferences, workshops, or online courses. Highlight your commitment to continuous learning and professional development in alignment with the evolving landscape of climate science.

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Can you provide an example of a project where you had to innovate a methodology?

Give an example of a specific project where you had to develop or implement a new methodology. Discuss the reasoning behind the innovation, the process followed, and the impact realized, emphasizing your creativity and initiative in tackling complex challenges.

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What role does collaboration play in your approach to hydrological analysis?

Explain how collaboration enhances your work, from sharing insights with colleagues to forming cross-disciplinary teams. Use specific examples to demonstrate how team efforts have led to improved outcomes in your hydrological projects.

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How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple projects?

Discuss your approach to project management, focusing on time management, organizational skills, and the tools you use to prioritize tasks. Provide examples of how you've successfully juggled multiple responsibilities while meeting deadlines.

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What challenges have you faced in flood risk assessment, and how did you overcome them?

Share specific challenges encountered in your career related to flood risk assessments. Discuss strategies you employed to address those challenges, such as adapting your models or collaborating with other experts, highlighting your problem-solving skills.

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In what ways do you believe this position will enable you to contribute to climate risk mitigation?

Reflect on how your expertise and passion for hydrology align with First Street's mission. Articulate your vision for how you can leverage your skills in this role to create innovative solutions that help address the financial implications of climate change.

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DATE POSTED
December 24, 2024

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