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.

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Responsibilites:

The Instruments and Communications Division(36) is known for the development and infusion of technologies that enable advanced flight sensors, instruments, and deep space communications. Our expertise spans the entire electromagnetic spectrum — from Radio Frequency (RF) through ultraviolet (UV). Our product line ranges from quantum technology and flight systems, imaging spectrometers, microwave radiometers, scientific radars, mass spectrometers and other in situ instruments, ground and space-based RF and optical systems, and innovative sensors. We create novel material systems and fabrication techniques that unlock new concepts and mission architecture. We pioneer deep space communication theory, implement advanced communication systems, and develop navigational tracking to understand where we are and how to ensure robust engineering and science data return.

The Optics & Spectroscopy Section (3640) provides world-leading capability and expertise in a wide range of technologies that are critical to the development of optical instruments.

Our engineers apply leadership and expertise to the development of advanced ground and space-based optical systems in the following areas: research and development of optics-related technologies; system architecture and concept definition; detailed optical system design, opto-mechanical design, analysis and implementation; and alignment, test and calibration of optical instruments and systems.

The Imaging Spectroscopy group (364I) is seeking a Research Technologist III with expertise in spectroscopy, algorithm development, instrument development, and instrument to measurement to data product expertise for full-time employment at our location in Pasadena, CA. The selected candidate will work to develop new approaches to derive information and contribute to new imaging spectrometer development across many levels for Earth as well as solar system objects.

Tasks include but are not limited to:

• Contribute to the design and specification of future imaging spectrometer instruments using state-of-the-art technology.

• Participate in specification, development, calibration and validation of new instruments and methodologies. This is an instrument scientist type role.

• Travel as needed to support imaging spectrometer measurement campaigns and validation efforts around the globe.

• Work with a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians involved in development of advanced algorithms, instrument design, development, testing, and validation of results.

• Be a member of the Imaging Spectroscopygroup and will report to the Group Supervisor.

Qualifications:   

• Bachelors in Geosciences, Geography or Geology with a minimum of 6 years of related experience, Masters in a related disciplinbe with a minimum of 4 years of related experience or PhD in a related discipline with a minimum of 2 years of related experience.

• Knowledge of Visible-Shortwave Infrared (VSWIR) imaging spectroscopy observations, instrumentation, and in-situ data collection procedures across both terrestrial and aquatic domains.

• Working knowledge of computer science principles, with comfort in typical scientific computing languages and high-performance Linux-based scientific computing environments.

• Excellent communications skills, ability to work in interdisciplinary teams and meet deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

• Strong record of using spectroscopy to quantitatively determine environmental parameters and their uncertainties.

• Experience designing, operating and calibrating optical instrumentation.

• Prior knowledge of principles, theories, concepts and techniques in high-accuracy radiative transfer modeling.

• Background in numerical techniques, signal processing theory, multivariate statistical data analysis and inverse problems.

• Knowledge of applicable laboratory policies and procedures, NASA policies and procedures, and government regulations.

• Working knowledge of a wide range of airborne and satellite measurement systems and related parameter retrieval methods.

• Familiarity with real-time data acquisition and processing techniques for remote sensing applications.

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.