Science Support Analyst I

Share in the thrill of space exploration! The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) has openings for Science Support Analysts (#7704) in our Instruments Division. This is a phenomenal opportunity for early career candidates to launch a stable long-term career in astronomy. We have openings at entry-level and welcome you to apply if you have at least a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields.

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), located on the Johns Hopkins University Campus in Baltimore, MD, is a multi-mission science and flight operations center for NASA’s flagship observatories, including the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes. 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). Relocation assistance is available.

Call for applications opened on December 20, 2023, and will remain open through February 11, 2024.  Please use ONLY this link to apply:

https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/76726

As a Science Support Analyst, you will typically work on an instrument team to support the development and operations of one of our flagship missions: the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and the Roman Space Telescope. You will be responsible for reducing and analyzing calibration data for astronomical instruments (e.g. cameras, spectrographs, coronagraphs) to optimize the scientific output of our space telescopes. You will provide user support to our worldwide community of researchers on various aspects of observation planning and data analysis. You can also get involved in ground breaking astronomical research by supporting projects led by our science staff.

Who are we looking for?

• You are dedicated, hardworking, and eager to learn, and can work with minimum supervision. You seek additional training so you can grow professionally. You want to contribute to state-of-the-art astronomy in a work environment that respects and relies upon the diversity of its staff.
• You have a Bachelor's degree (or above) in astronomy, physics, astrophysics, planetary science, mathematics, computer science, aerospace engineering, or related fields.
• You have some experience in one or more of the following areas: astronomical data calibration and reduction (e.g., imaging, spectra, catalogs), scientific instrumentation, optics, astronomical observatory operations, astronomical research, statistical analysis, scientific programming (especially in python), software engineering, and development of astronomical software packages. Expertise in Machine Learning methodologies applied to scientific use cases and/or utilizing AWS services to optimize computational needs are desired skills, but not required.

Compensation is commensurate with education and experience. Our excellent benefits include:

• 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
• Comprehensive medical/dental/vision/prescription plans, and more!

You are invited to apply

You will need to submit the following materials: a cover letter, a resume or CV with details of relevant technical skills or experience, and the names/titles/email addresses of three people who have agreed to provide a letter of reference upon request.

Please use ONLY this link to apply:  https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/76726

Inquiries about your application status can be directed to careers@stsci.edu.

STScI offers a flexible and welcoming workspace for all. STScI embraces the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in creating a first-rate community. We reflect this deep dedication by strongly encourage women, ethnic minorities, veterans, and disabled individuals to apply for these opportunities. Veterans, disabled individuals, or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu EOE/AA/M/F/D/V.

As a leader in the astronomical community, AURA is committed to diversity and inclusion. AURA develops and supports programs that advance our organizational commitment to diversity, broaden participation, and encourage the advancement of diversity throughout the astronomical scientific workforce. www.aura-astronomy.org/diversity.asp

As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA and all of the centers do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws. The statements below, as well as the requests for self-identification, are required under these regulations. We encourage your participation in meeting these federal reporting requirements for protection and assisting us in our record-keeping and reporting. Your responses are kept strictly confidential.

#LIHYBRID