NASA Human Spaceflight Artificial Intelligence (AI) Software Engineer and Data Scientist

Description

The company is hiring an AI software engineer and data scientist to support NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX, in designing, building, and testing AI software that improves human spaceflight work.

The role is part of a new initiative that could grow into a larger digital transformation program.

Example projects include an AI system that supports the NASA systems engineering process, an AI tool that helps mission control console operators during crewed flights, an AI system that predicts how spacecraft hardware such as batteries and avionics will perform in space conditions, and an AI system that helps unit test human-rated flight software.

You will work alongside other engineers, talk with users, set feature priorities based on customer needs, manage your own schedule, and present and demonstrate your work to large audiences.

The team is looking for someone who works well independently, communicates clearly in writing and speech, and can explain complex technical ideas persuasively. Enthusiasm for the US space program and for building the next generation of human-rated spacecraft is important.

Responsibilities

• Build AI software for human spaceflight applications.
• Collect software requirements and write software design documents.
• Learn in depth the process or capability that the AI work will support.
• Test software to confirm requirements are met and to validate it.
• Investigate and resolve any discrepancies that come up.
• Present AI capabilities and run demonstrations for different stakeholders.
• Follow the Johnson Space Center's standard software process practices.
• Help set feature priorities based on customer needs and provide customer support.

Requirements

• You must be a US citizen or a permanent resident, which is needed to access US government facilities.
• A bachelor's degree (B.S.) in computer, software, aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering, computer science, or a related field.
• At least 3+ years of software development experience covering the full software product lifecycle; more experience is highly valued.
• Python programming experience.
• Experience developing AI models and software.
• Practical experience with Large Language Models (LLMs), machine learning, data science, and AI.
• Experience training a machine learning model.
• Flexibility and openness to new challenges in a changing environment, along with strong technical skills and strong verbal and written communication.
• Ability to juggle multiple priorities with limited supervision.
• A highly responsible, team-oriented approach with a strong work ethic.
• Well-developed coordination and organizational skills.
• Desired: a master's (M.S.) or PhD in computer science, software engineering, or computer science with a focus on AI, data science, or a related field.
• Desired: experience with space vehicle mission operations.
• Desired: C++ programming experience.
• Desired: experience with space vehicle systems, such as Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS).
• Desired: experience with software user interface (UI) and/or user experience (UX) design.

Conditions

This is a full-time position based in Houston, TX, at the Johnson Space Center.

Travel of up to 10% within the continental US may be required.

No security clearance is needed to start.

The proposed salary range is $76,000 - 155,700 USD.

Final pay depends on factors such as geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and wage rates, relevant prior experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications.

The company offers a flexible work-life balance, competitive pay, and learning and development opportunities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits including healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off.
• A flexible time off benefit that lets you take the time you need.
• Access to robust learning resources to support your career goals.