Photogrammetry Developer, Lunar and Planetary Laboratory (Extended Temporary)

Position Highlights

The Lunar and Planetary Laboratory (LPL) is a world leader in space science, technology, and exploration, dedicated to advancing the fundamental understanding of the origin and evolution of the Sun, planetary bodies in our solar system, and planetary systems beyond. LPL achieves excellence through cutting-edge research and teaching while mentoring the next generation of planetary scientists. As a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary community, LPL fosters an environment that advances science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) research, education, and public engagement, where everyone can thrive.

The Photogrammetry Program at the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory seeks a candidate with strong software development skills and a background in photogrammetry to support the production and development of high-quality planetary topographic data from active NASA and ESA missions. We are seeking a team player who will help develop tools for processing and analyzing topographic data using established and novel techniques and methods including machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) for diverse projects.

This role will support the next generation of students, scientists, instrument development, and engineers at the state-of-the-art photogrammetry facilities at LPL, generating topographic products for planetary surfaces using data from active and planned planetary science instruments, including MRO/HiRISE, LRO/LROC, TGO/CaSSIS, Europa Clipper/EIS, and the EMission Imager for Lunar Infrared Analysis in 3D (EMILIA-3D).

LPL provides a supportive environment that encourages career growth by exploring new ideas and promoting collaborations with researchers, students, and faculty.

This position is anticipated to last two years, with the possibility of continued employment contingent upon available funding.

In-person work is preferred; however, flexible schedules are allowed, as some work may be performed remotely.

This is an Extended Temporary Employment (ETE) position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist in software development of automated algorithms for photogrammetric processing. This includes writing and testing software and tracking with version control systems such as GitHub/GitLab.
• Maintain existing software as needed for routine updates and bug fixes.
• Support the development of new processing systems for flight instruments.
• Assist with testing photogrammetric processing pipelines for planetary image data following established and novel workflows (e.g., ISIS/SOCET-GXP).
• Solve technical issues in coordination with supervisors.
• Test software updates to existing workflows.
• Design and optimize production databases to facilitate accurate production tracking.
• Assist in generating data to support periodic reporting to program managers.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Proficiency with BAE Systems SOCET SET/SOCET GXP.
• Knowledge of database management or query languages (mySQL, FileMaker Pro).
• Proficiency with software development using Perl, Python, Matlab, C++, Unix shell scripting, or similar languages, and knowledge of version tracking systems such as GitHub/GitLab.
• Familiarity with planetary data.
• Familiarity with Mac, Windows, and Unix operating systems.
• Ability to manage multiple projects.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, geosciences, geography, mathematics, or a related field.
• One year of professional experience involving software development, database management, and/or photogrammetry.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with machine learning (ML) or artificial intelligence (AI)

FLSA: Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40

Job FTE: 1.0

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay: $65,687 - $85,393

Compensation Type: salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Grade: 9

Career Stream and Level: PC1

Job Family: Research Engineering

Job Function: Research

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 1

Expected End Date: 5/10/2028

Contact Information for Candidates:

Sarah Sutton, Ph.D.
Photogrammetry Program Lead, HiRISE, Researcher/Scientist
ssutton@lpl.arizona.edu

Open Until Filled: Yes

Documents Needed to Apply: Resume and Cover Letter