Data Analyst II

Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy•Tucson, AZ

About The Position

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.

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
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

Nice To Haves

A master’s degree may be substituted for 1–2 years of required experience

Responsibilities

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