Data Scientist IV
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 6, 2026. First seen by Alion on Sep 17, 2026.
Job Details
New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers-literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission-your opportunity-is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.
Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.
Responsibilities:
The AI and Data Science Section is seeking a Research Data Scientist IV to join the Machine Learning & Instrument Autonomy Group (MLIA) to research, mature, and infuse machine learning (ML) and other data science supporting technologies to advance robotic exploration and science. The Research Data Scientist IV will have the opportunity to join the applied machine learning for imaging spectroscopy team, to build products from the latest AVIRIS sensors (including NG, 3, and 5) and EMIT.
Tasks include but are not limited to:
Conduct R&D of ML and related technologies for application to science and engineering challenges
Develop and lead algorithm and data processing methods for airborne and satellite remote sensing platforms, planetary surface missions, and novel instrument designs
Generate large-scale datasets and models from mission data
Lead delivery-minded mid-sized (3-6 members) research teams on self-won and received tasks
Collaborate with domain experts from a variety of natural science and space-related engineering fields
Publicize work through peer-reviewed conference, workshop, and journal papers
Facilitate the infusion of high quality, data-driven technologies throughout JPL and NASA.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Physical Science, or related technical discipline with a minimum of 9 years of related work experience; or Masters in a related discipline with a minimum of 7 years of related work experience or PhD in related disciplines with a minimum of 5 years of related work experience.
Broad knowledge of machine learning inclusive of tradition machine learning, deep learning and Gen AI architectures.
Deep knowledge of remotely sensed data from airborne and orbital instrumentation, including advanced sensors.
Demonstrated Principal Investigator leadership of independent, novel research capabilities.
Demonstrated leadership of technical tasks involving teams of up to 6 persons
Demonstrated success in competitive proposal calls in space-related areas
ML publication record in respected, peer reviewed venues, or equivalent industry delivery experience.
Experience with software engineering best practices.
Demonstrated experience with rigorous validation for scientific investigations
Strong written and oral communication skills including data visualization, presentation, and explanation of results.
Team-building mentality, can-do attitude, and relentless commitment to project success.
Experience working with HPC and/or cloud-based distributed computing systems.
Preferred Skills:
Optimizing and delivering algorithms to onboard, large-scale computing, or real-time operational systems.
Working knowledge of uncertainty quantification and generative modeling.
Experience working with imaging spectroscopy data for airborne or orbital instruments.
Experience creating and validating large-scale data products based on machine learning.
Familiarity with atmospheric retrievals, and ideally radiative transfer theory.
Deep knowledge of machine learning architectures that are relevant and useful to imaging spectroscopy applications.
JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.
For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks
The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.
The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.
$165,360 - $227,864JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.
In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.