Senior Staff Astronomical Data Scientist

Position Overview

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is a multi-mission science operations center for NASA’s flagship observatories. As a Senior Staff Astronomical Data Scientist in the Data Management Division, you will be instrumental in developing and supporting AWS-based Science Platforms that process and serve data from historic missions such as the Hubble Space Telescope, the James Webb Space Telescope, and the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. This role involves acting as the Product Owner for a software development team, engaging with stakeholders and the broader astronomical community, and ensuring our platforms meet evolving scientific needs. Candidates must be US Citizens or Permanent Residents and be located in or willing to relocate to the local market (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV); hybrid work is available.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the ongoing development, maintenance, and support of STScI’s Science Platforms.
• Define and articulate the vision and strategy for the platforms.
• Prioritize and maintain the product backlog while translating science needs and mission requirements into detailed specifications.
• Serve as the primary contact between stakeholders and the software development team, engaging directly with developers to drive success.
• Participate in sprint and release planning, managing stakeholder expectations regarding timelines and deliverables.
• Promote the Science Platforms through community outreach, conferences, and meetings.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field.
• US Citizenship or Permanent Residence (to meet ITAR requirements).
• Experience as a Product Owner and/or leading a team of software developers.
• Proven ability to manage product backlogs, including user story creation, refinement, and prioritization.
• Minimum three years of experience with astronomical spectroscopic and/or imaging data and associated analysis tools.
• Proficiency in Python programming and familiarity with common Python-based astronomy packages.
• Experience working in a commercial cloud computing environment, preferably AWS.
• Hands-on experience with Linux, Jupyter Hub, and Jupyter Notebooks.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with scientists, technical staff, and other stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

• An advanced degree in Astronomy, Physics, or a related field, along with 5+ years of experience in an astronomical research role or as an observatory scientist.
• Experience contributing to open-source scientific software projects.
• Background in developing or operating scientific data processing workflows.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: Annual salary range of $100,000 - $115,000, commensurate with education and experience.
• Employer retirement contribution – direct STScI contribution of 10% of your salary starting on your first day.
• 12 days sick leave, up to 24 days vacation, and 10 paid holidays.
• Flexible work schedule promoting a healthy work/life balance.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans, among other benefits.

Applications received by April 14, 2025, will receive full consideration. Applications received after this date will be considered until the position is filled.

For more career opportunities, please visit www.stsci.edu/opportunities. If you need assistance with the employment process, contact us at careers@stsci.edu.