Cloud Software Development Engineer

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 Cloud Software Engineer II with experience in Python programming and building ETL data processing pipelines for large-scale scientific datasets and optimizing cloud-native and hybrid architectures that support mission-critical data workflows and archival systems. About the Role The Data Management Division (DMD) at STScI seeks a highly skilled Cloud Software Engineer II with expertise in Python programming and building ETL data processing pipelines for large-scale scientific datasets. This role focuses on implementing and optimizing cloud-native and hybrid architectures that support mission-critical data workflows and archival systems. You will support 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. Click here to learn more about our missions 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 Cloud Software Engineer II role is $115,000 - $125,000. 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 Contribute to the design and development/maintenance of 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 Work under the guidance of senior engineers to implement cloud-native features and enhancements Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Engineering, or related field with 5+ years of cloud software development experience. Proficiency in: Python and SQL for application development and data processing AWS Cloud Services (ECS/EKS, Lambda, RDS, S3, SNS/SQS, etc.) Relational Databases (PostgreSQL, MSSQL, or similar) Data pipeline orchestration (Apache Airflow, AWS Batch) Experience with containerization (Docker) Experience with CI/CD tools (GitHub Actions, GitLab CI, AWS CodePipeline) Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a collaborative team environment Preferred Qualifications Experience with Java and Node.js (nice to have) Advanced database knowledge (optimization, performance tuning) Knowledge of streaming/messaging technologies (Kafka, AWS SNS/SQS) Experience with orchestration (Kubernetes) Familiarity with Infrastructure as Code tools (Terraform, CloudFormation) Experience in scientific or research data systems and distributed computing Hands-on experience with modern API technologies, including GraphQL, is highly desirable The substitution of additional relevant education and/or experience for stated qualifications may be considered. TO APPLY: Share your experience by uploading a resume and cover letter and by completing an online application. Applications received by March 6, 2026, 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. We offer an excellent and generous benefits package, tuition reimbursement, flexible work schedules and a stimulating and diverse work environment. Explore our benefits: http://www.stsci.edu/opportunities/benefits Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu.