IT Division Head

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is a multi-mission science operations center for NASA’s flagship observatories. Our world-class astronomical research center is based on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland. 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 Division Head of the IT Services Division is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the STScI IT infrastructure, systems, and services. This senior leadership role includes the management of all IT/InfoSec teams, development of strategic technology plans, effective cybersecurity practices, and support of STScI’s goals through the implementation of innovative technology solutions (on premises and in the cloud). The Division Head plays a key role in aligning the division's objectives with STScI and Mission goals, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, and managing resources to maintain excellence in operations and deliverables.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Leadership & Strategy:
  • Develop, implement, and maintain IT strategic plans aligned with STScI goals.
  • Provide leadership to IT teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
  • Collaborate with senior leadership to align IT strategies with STScI priorities, emerging technologies, and future growth.
• IT Operations:
  • Oversee daily IT operations, ensuring systems, networks, and applications are secure, reliable, and scalable.
  • Manage the development, maintenance, and support of all IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, data centers, and end-user devices.
  • Work with the DevSecOps team(s) to support aspects such as data center modernization, automated deployments, container orchestration (K8s), and observability.
  • Implement and monitor cybersecurity protocols to protect the STScI’s digital assets and data.
  • Ensure compliance with NASA regulations and industry best practices related to data security and privacy.
• Budget & Resource Management:
  • Develop and manage the IT budget, ensuring cost-effective allocation of resources.
  • Evaluate contracts and manage relationships with external vendors and service providers.
  • Ensure the efficient use of financial resources while maximizing return on investment for technology initiatives.
  • Ensure IT projects are completed on time, within scope, and on budget.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement:
  • Stay current with emerging technologies and trends in the IT industry.
  • Identify opportunities for digital transformation and operational efficiencies within STScI.
  • Proactively recommend innovative solutions to improve business operations, user experience, and cost.
• Stakeholder Communication:
  • Serve as the primary point of contact between the IT division and executive leadership.
  • Communicate technology updates, challenges, and opportunities effectively to non-technical stakeholders.
  • Build strong relationships with internal departments, ensuring IT aligns with the needs of all business units.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Reports to Associate Director, Engineering and IT

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

Oversees operations of entire division through direct reports – Deputy Division Heads and Branch Managers as appropriate. High-level individual contributors may also be direct reports.

 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field
• Master’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or related field preferred

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in IT
• At least 5 years of management in an IT function

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proven experience overseeing complex IT operations, including infrastructure management, cybersecurity, and enterprise software applications.
• Experience managing IT budgets, teams, and large-scale projects.
• Thorough understanding of current and emerging technologies.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including developing interpersonal relationships and strong partnerships with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple priorities and drive strategic initiatives.
• Experience with IT service management tools.
• Excellent vendor management.

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
• Flexible work schedule with healthy work/life balance
• Comprehensive medical/dental/vision/prescription plans, and more!

Salary range is $215k to $240k.

Please only use this link to submit your application: IT Division Head

Applications received by 08/04/2025 will receive full consideration. Applications received after this date will be considered until the position is filled.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu.