Senior Cloud Software Engineer (Development)

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. STScI is hiring a Senior Cloud Software Engineer (Development) with deep expertise in Python programming and building ETL data processing pipelines for large-scale scientific datasets for designing and optimizing cloud-native and hybrid architectures that support mission-critical data workflows and archival systems.

About the Role

The Data Management Division (DMD) Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) seeks a highly skilled Senior Cloud Software Engineer with deep expertise in Python programming and building ETL data processing pipelines for large-scale scientific datasets. This role focuses on designing and optimizing cloud-native and hybrid architectures that support mission-critical data workflows and archival systems. You will lead efforts to develop robust, scalable solutions that integrate cloud and on-premises environments, enabling scientists worldwide to access and analyze astronomical data efficiently for missions such as the Hubble, James Webb, and Roman Space Telescopes.

This is a HYBRID work arrangement, offering flexibility to work both from home and onsite at our Baltimore, MD campus.

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.

The annual salary range for this senior level role is $130,000 - $150,000. The posted salary range represents a general guideline; however, STScI considers several 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. The substitution of additional relevant education and / or experience for stated qualifications may be considered.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain cloud-native applications on AWS and hybrid system architectures to support large-scale data processing and archival systems
• Integrate with relational database (PostgreSQL, MSSQL) for high-performance storage and retrieval solutions
• Develop data pipelines and ETL workflows using Python, Apache Airflow, and streaming technologies (Kafka or AWS Kinesis)
• Build and manage AWS infrastructure using Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, CloudFormation)
• Develop and maintain CI / CD pipelines for automated deployment and testing
• Ensure system security, reliability, and compliance with STScI standards and best practices
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to understand requirements and deliver scalable, maintainable solutions
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in production and development environments

Required Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

TO APPLY : Share your experience by uploading a resume and cover letter and by completing an online application. Applications received by February 13, 2026, will receive full consideration. Applications received after this date will be considered until the position is filled.

Why Join Us?

You will be part of a mission-driven organization supporting cutting-edge astronomical research. You will collaborate with a team of software developers and astronomers to deliver critical science products and data processing tools. We offer a flexible hybrid work environment, competitive compensation, and the opportunity to work on impactful projects that shape the future of space science.

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