Data Analyst

Job Details

The Data Analyst II provides advanced scientific data systems support and scientific research program support for NOIRLab. This role contributes to the development, operation, and enhancement of software and data systems that enable the archiving, processing, analysis, visualization, and distribution of astronomical data. The Data Analyst II also works directly with researchers, providing technical and data-oriented support for original scientific research projects.

At the Level II, this position is expected to work more independently on complex projects, contribute insights to project planning and execution, and support both internal staff and the external scientific user community.

Essential Functions

• Develop, deploy, operate, and document software-based workflows and procedures for astronomical data management, processing, and analysis
• Meet functional, technical, and scientific requirements according to approved schedules provided by team leads and scientific staff
• Investigate, evaluate, test, and compare tools, platforms, and methodologies for astronomical data science applications
• Operate, validate, and maintain workflows for data processing and ingestion into archives and databases
• Create and maintain tutorial scripts, example code, and interactive notebooks to support scientific use of NOIRLab data sets and services
• Respond to and support helpdesk inquiries from the scientific user community related to NOIRLab data products and services
• Design, develop, test, and maintain web pages and web-based user interfaces
• Collaborate with NOIRLab scientists, software engineers, external partners, and other stakeholders to achieve mission goals
• Work directly with researchers to support scientific analysis and project execution
• Participate in ongoing training to maintain and expand expertise in data analysis tools, programming languages, and scientific software
• Assist with training and knowledge sharing for other staff, including more junior team members
• Ensure proper management and control of AURA property within the assigned work area
• Maintain compliance with applicable government award terms and conditions as defined in the Vela Award Management system
• May provide training and guidance to more junior staff

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in astronomy, physics, computer science, or a related field
• 2–3 years of experience supporting astronomical research programs or scientific data systems
• A master’s degree may be substituted for 1–2 years of required experience
• Demonstrated initiative, sound judgment, integrity, and technical competence
• Mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities expected at Level I
• Greater depth and breadth of technical and scientific expertise, with the ability to apply that expertise to complex projects and data sets
• Experience working independently on assignments while contributing effectively within collaborative, multidisciplinary teams
• Ability to provide input, insights, and recommendations into project design, implementation, and process improvement
• Proficiency in several of the following areas:
• Astronomical data types (e.g., imaging, photometry, spectroscopy, astrometry)
• Astronomical data analysis algorithms and scientific software
• Data visualization techniques
• Statistics and error analysis
• Relational and non-relational database systems
• Management of large or unstructured data sets
• Machine learning and artificial intelligence approaches for scientific data
• Programming languages such as Python, C/C++, and/or Java
• Computing environments including Linux/UNIX, macOS, and Windows
• Web page and web-based user interface design and maintenance
• Analysis and understanding of scientific user and research goals
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to work productively across diverse teams and roles
• Advanced verbal, written, and presentation skills, including the ability to communicate scientific or technical concepts clearly
• Demonstrated ability to document workflows, methods, results, and conclusions in technical reports or scientific publications
• Adaptability and versatility to learn new tools and techniques, take on new responsibilities, and grow with evolving project needs

The NSF NOIRLab is the preeminent US national center for ground-based, nighttime optical and infrared astronomy. NOIRLab is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) which operates as a matrix organization, providing services across a range of programs: Gemini, Rubin, MSO (CTIO and KPNO), and CSDC; with facilities in three geographic locations: Arizona, Chile and Hawai’i. The mission of NOIRLab is to enable breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics by developing and operating state-of-the-art ground-based observatories and providing data products and services for our community.

Salary Range: $59,000 - $75,000 annually. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources

Apply by June 1, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName DocName.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.