Space Data Processing Post-Bacc Student
Los Alamos National Laboratory’s Space Data & Software Systems Group (ISR-3) is seeking a qualified Post Baccalaureate Student to participate in the execution of our portfolio of space and ground-based programs. ISR-3 is an integral part of the Intelligence and Space Research (ISR) Division with core capabilities in software development, mission operations, data exploitation, data systems development, and integration.
About the role
The successful candidate will join the Data Processing Tools & Management team, which supports ground-based processing of spacecraft and instrument telemetry by developing and maintaining data processing software, pipelines, and deployment infrastructure. Work involves both software development and systems engineering in support of space mission operations. The role requires regular work in a classified setting and a strong commitment to security.
The Intelligence and Space Research (ISR) Division designs, builds, and operates innovative ground, air, and space-based measurement and detection systems. Teams work in a highly creative and dynamic R&D environment on projects including verification of international nuclear treaties, nuclear nonproliferation, space situational awareness, and remote sensing. The division leads experiments on NASA missions such as the Curiosity Rover, Van Allen Probes, IBEX, Mars 2020 Rover, IMAP Mission, NACHOS hyperspectral cubesat, and BEAMPIE rocket experiment.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain data processing software and pipelines for spacecraft and instrument telemetry.
- Support deployment infrastructure for ground-based data processing.
- Collaborate with scientific teams on space mission operations.
- Work in a classified environment with a focus on security protocols.
- Document and communicate technical work effectively.
Requirements
- Programming Experience: 2+ years of experience with C/C++ and/or Python.
- Operating System Experience: Familiarity with Unix/Linux operating systems.
- Version Control System Experience: Working knowledge of SVN, git, or Mercurial.
- Collaboration/Teaming: Demonstrated ability to work closely with scientific teams and build effective relationships.
- Communication: Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills.
- Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or equivalent science degree, or a B.S. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent engineering degree. Eligibility is limited to students who have completed a bachelor’s degree within the past 3 years but have not been accepted and enrolled in a graduate program. Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
- Clearance: Must be eligible for a Q clearance. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and a U.S. citizen (limited exceptions apply; see DOE Order 472.2).
Qualifications
- Strong Linux system administration and scripting skills.
- Experience developing formalized unit and/or integration test software.
- Familiarity with data processing pipelines and common data engineering/scientific packages.
- Experience developing, testing, deploying, and iterating scientific algorithms.
- Experience with workflow orchestration tools (e.g., Apache Airflow).
- Familiarity with container technologies (Podman, Docker) and orchestration (Kubernetes, OpenShift).
- Experience with satellite sensors and programs.
- Experience with CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices.
- Familiarity with debugging tools such as the GNU Debugger (GDB).
- Familiarity with Hierarchical Data Format 5 (HDF5) or other similar file formats.
Work Location
The position is onsite in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Benefits
- PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with a large nationwide network.
- Dental and vision insurance.
- Free basic life and disability insurance.
- Paid childbirth and parental leave.
- Award-winning 401(k) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annual contribution.
- Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
- Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays).
- Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
- Extensive relocation packages (for candidates outside a 50-mile radius).