Space Telescope Science Institute

Build, maintain, and monitor data pipelines using Apache Airflow and support scientific research with relational databases and cloud architectures. | Bachelor's degree and 3-7 years experience in data or software engineering with proficiency in Python, SQL, and PostgreSQL. | Description The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), is NASA’s science operations center for missions including the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes. We are seeking a Junior Data Engineer to join our Data Management Division. In this role, you will help build and support the backend data infrastructure that powers the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST)-one of the world’s most advanced astronomical public data archives. MAST provides reliable access to scientific data from missions including HST, JWST, Roman, and TESS. This position can support hybrid work (around twice a quarter, in the office). Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV). This position requires US Citizenship or Permanent Residence to meet ITAR requirements. Responsibilities Assist in building, maintaining, monitoring, and troubleshooting data pipelines using Apache Airflow to process, transform, and load large-scale datasets. * Support PostgreSQL and MPP platform operations, including performance monitoring and routine maintenance. * Help build and improve data systems that support scientific research, including relational databases and cloud-based Lakehouse architectures. * Monitor data quality, reliability, and system health through logging, alerting, and operational best practices. * Collaborate with senior data engineers, scientists, and cross-functional teams to understand requirements and implement scalable data solutions. * Participate in testing, documentation, and continuous improvement of data engineering processes. Preferred Technical Skills Working knowledge of PostgreSQL or other relational databases. * Familiarity with Apache Airflow or an eagerness to learn workflow orchestration tools. * Experience with Python programming and SQL. * Exposure to AWS cloud services through coursework, internships, personal projects, or professional experience. * Understanding of ETL/ELT concepts and data pipeline fundamentals. * Familiarity with Git and software development best practices. Required Qualifications * Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience). * 3-7 years of experience in data engineering, software engineering, data analytics, or a related technical role. Internship, research, academic, or personal project experience is encouraged. * Strong problem-solving skills, willingness to learn, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. You’ll Have the Opportunity to Grow Into Designing and optimizing production-scale data pipelines and distributed data systems. * Working with advanced technologies such as Trino, Apache Iceberg, Greenplum, and modern Lakehouse architectures. * Developing expertise in AWS cloud services, PostgreSQL performance tuning, distributed query engines, and large-scale scientific data processing. * Taking ownership of increasingly complex data engineering projects while being mentored by experienced engineers. Candidates at all levels of seniority will be considered, with the level of appointment commensurate with the candidate’s education and expertise. Our excellent benefits include: [https://www.stsci.edu/opportunities/benefits] * Employer retirement contribution – direct STScI contribution of 10% of your salary from your first day * 12 days sick leave, up to 24 days’ vacation, and 10 paid holidays * Flexible work schedule with healthy work/life balance * Comprehensive medical/dental/vision/prescription plans, and more! Please only use this link to apply -Astronomical Optics Scientist [https://apply.workable.com/stsci/j/BB2BFEAA63/]  Reference #: 0016263 Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu. [careers@stsci.edu]

Maintain spacecraft telemetry archives and develop software tools for telemetry analysis and visualization. | Bachelor's degree and 3+ years of software engineering experience with proficiency in Python, JavaScript, and Linux administration. | Full Stack Software Engineer The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), is NASA’s science operations center for missions including the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes. STScI leads observation planning, data analysis, public engagement, and data archiving for flagship missions. Our staff spans astronomy, engineering, education, IT, communications, and administration—working together to bring space science to the world. Our world-class astronomical research center is based on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland. Visit our website to learn more about our missions. This position can support hybrid work. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV). This position requires US Citizenship or Permanent Residence in order to meet ITAR requirements. The annual salary range for this title is $105,000 - $125,000. The posted salary range represents a general guideline; however, STScI considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers, such as internal pay equity, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education, and skill, and current market conditions Full Stack Software Engineer Position Overview: Role and Responsibilities We are seeking a highly motivated Full Stack Software Engineer with strong experience in modern backend development, web technologies, DevSecOps, and data-driven application development. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working across the full software lifecycle, from architecture and implementation to deployment and monitoring. Maintain and develop spacecraft housekeeping telemetry archive Create software tools for telemetry analysis, visualization, and system enhancements Assist with archiving system operation and maintenance tasks Education, Experience and Skills Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Software Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience) and 3+ years of professional software engineering experience with the core skills and experience Core Technical/Software Engineering Skills & Experience Proficiency in Python, JavaScript, and shell scripting Strong Linux administration and development experience. Solid understanding of software design patterns Strong knowledge of S.O.L.I.D principles and Object-Oriented Design Experience practicing Test-Driven Development (TDD) Ability to write clean, maintainable, and scalable code Hands-on experience with Jira for issue tracking and sprint management Experience designing and implementing RESTful APIs Hands-on experience with server-side Python development using Django Practiced with object relational modeling (ORM) Familiarity with CI/CD workflows using GitLab Automated testing experience using Pytest Workflow orchestration and scheduling experience Experience with monitoring and observability Preferred (not required) Qualifications Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments Familiarity with cloud platforms and infrastructure automation Strong troubleshooting and debugging skills Excellent communication and collaboration abilities The substitution of additional relevant education and/or experience for stated qualifications may be considered. TO APPLY: Share your experience by uploading a resume and completing an online application. Applications received by August 24, 2026, will receive full consideration. Applications received after this date will be considered until the position is filled. Reference requistion HRC0015986 Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu. We offer an excellent and generous benefits package, tuition reimbursement, flexible work schedules and a stimulating and diverse work environment. Explore our benefits: http://www.stsci.edu/opportunities/benefits