Scientific Applications Data Scientist IV

Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

Responsibilities:

The JPL Science Data Systems Section is seeking a talented individual to be part of the Algorithm and Calibration Engineering Technical Group in supporting science data analysis for JPL Earth Science missions. The Scientific Applications Data Scientist will be responsible for the development and implementation of processing algorithms and science data systems for Earth Science spaceborne and airborne missions, while leading the development of AI-based algorithms for efficient data processing across a variety of scientific applications.

JPL Science Data Systems Section operates a cloud-based Science Data System (SDS) that ingests satellite telemetry and systematically processes it into calibrated, geolocated, and quality-controlled higher-level science data products. The SDS leverages elastic cloud computing, automated workflows, and robust monitoring to ensure scalable, repeatable, and timely product generation. This architecture enables reliable end-to-end data delivery from mission operations to the global science and applications communities. The JPL Section 342 is actively involved in concept formulations of autonomous on-board SDS for NASA and commercial applications.

The Scientific Applications Data Scientist’s tasks include but are not limited to:

• Implementation of updates to the L0 processing algorithms for sensors collecting data over complex surfaces and/or multi-angle viewing geometries.

• Design and implementation of software tools in support of the optical sensor calibration analysis.

• Development and execution of the processing scripts in support of the testing and validation activities for L1 and L2 data products.

• Leading initiatives leveraging self-supervised machine learning models and multi-sensor datasets to segment and track object instances (such as ships, wildfire fronts, smoke plumes, harmful algal blooms, and palm oil farms).

• Coordinating closely with the instrument PI, Algorithm Development Teams, DAAC, and other partner SDS elements to support end-to-end data processing and operations.

• Serve as a critical interface with the JPL Scientists and External Collaborators to lead and contribute to the publications and present results at the professional meetings.

• Partner with JPL instrument teams in providing data processing support in strategic mission formulation activities.

• Developing concepts for planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and execution of algorithms for on-board autonomous systems that interpret complex event data to take actions to achieve mission goals.

• Developing machine learning systems for interpretation of remote sensing imagery and large multi-modal models for reasoning about calibration, imagery, time, patterns, and ramifications.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, data science or applied mathematics witha minimum of 9 years of related work experience; Master’s degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 10 years of related work experience; PhD degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 5 years of related work experience.

• Expertise in Java, C/C++, and Python.

• Expertise in Linux or Unix-based systems.

• Substantial experience developing, generalizing, and maintaining components of operational science data systems for major JPL missions and airborne programs, including MISR, Jason-3, SWOT, AirMSPI, and HyTES.

• Significant and varied experience in developing data-driven L2 retrieval techniques including aerosol and 3D cloud tomography.

• Broad knowledge and understanding of the principles underlying complex and large data acquisition, in-flight calibration, and physics-based atmospheric retrievals, involving scientific remote sensing instruments.

• Practical experience in Computer Vision techniques for Object Detection, instance segmentation, and multi-sensor tracking.

• Extensive knowledge of applicable industry and/or academic practices and standards for analysis of remote sensing data sets in response to science needs, and reporting of related results in journals, workshops, or conferences. 

• Demonstrated ability to communicate scientific instruments in-flight calibration concepts to domain scientists.

• Demonstrated leadership credibility with staff, management and external liaisons (NASA, partners, customers and/or sponsors).

• Team player with demonstrated leadership and mentorship skills, excellent interpersonal skills, organizational skills, and communication skills.

Preferred  Skills:

• Basic understanding of satellite orbital dynamics, satellite and sub-orbital operational modes, and constraints affecting data collection and delivery.

• Generalization, maintenance, and development of operational science data pipelines and processing algorithms.

• Successful history of NASA-funded proposals.

• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications.

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.

The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.

In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.