Scientific Programmer/Analyst

Science
Systems and Applications Inc. (SSAI) is seeking a highly motivated,
independent, and problem-solving oriented Scientific Programmer/Analyst to
support mission related work at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). The
selected individual will join the ICEsat-2 instrument calibration and Precision
Attitude and Pointing Determination (PPD) team, performing precise instrument
characterization, calibration, and performance optimization. This position is
designed for an early-career scientist/programmer/analyst with experience
working with instrument telemetry and datasets.

Responsibilities:

* Collaborate with
the Instrument Operations Team to maintain instrument health, schedule
calibration spacecraft maneuvers, and ensure long-term performance.

* Work within a team
of scientists and engineers, fostering collaborative problem-solving to advance
mission objectives.

* Conduct routine
on-orbit calibration monitoring and implement necessary updates to maintain
optimal instrument performance.

* Support instrument
characterization, assessing instrument health and functionality, and addressing
anomalies promptly.

* Develop automated
software to increase operational efficiency.

* Write code to
create operational data products which include the estimated attitude of the
instrument platform and the orientation of the spacecraft.

* Develop and write
software to ingest instrument data and perform
estimation/filtering/optimization routines.

* Develop and refine
calibration algorithms and data processing codes for remote sensing
applications, as well as develop innovative research studies.

* Develop
performance and quality assessment tools.

* Produce plots and
visualizations of data.

* Construct
simulations of satellite mission observations, test and assess algorithm
performance, and conduct trade studies.

* Create detailed
documentation of operational processes, data assessment results, and product
performance

Required Qualifications:

* BS in a STEM
related field, and 3+ years of experience in scientific programming.

* Proficiency in
data analysis, scientific reporting, and programming.

* Experience with
C/C++, and Unix/Linux shell scripting.

* Experience with
Python/MATLAB and managing software libraries (Git).

* Familiarity with
large data sets and ability to develop efficient processing strategies and
methods.

* Troubleshooting
and problem-solving oriented; ability to work independently with little
oversight.

* Experience with
plotting and visualizing data, especially pertaining to remote sensing data
analysis.

* Excellent written
and verbal communication skills. Able to document processing flows.

* U.S. citizenship
or permanent residency is required.

Desired Qualifications:

* Familiarity with
the space environment and laser altimetry.

* Remote-sensing
mission experience and understanding of instrument datasets.

* Experience with
implementing science product quality control and performance assessment
processes.

EOE/AA Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities

Physical Requirements: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands to touch, handle or feel objects, tools or controls. The employee frequently is required to talk and hear and occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.