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Orbital Science Operations Specialist

Malin Space Science Systems, Inc.
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Malin Space Science Systems (MSSS) is a private technology company that designs, develops and operates space camera systems. The Orbital Science Operations Specialist is under the general direction of the Orbital Group Manager/Sr. Staff Scientist. The Orbital Group currently manages two cameras onboard of Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO): the Context camera (CTX) for geological terrain mapping at 6 m/pixel and Mars Color Imager (MARCI), designed for daily global weather monitoring at 1 km/pixel. Both cameras were developed and built at MSSS.

 

Essential Functions

  • Tasks include commanding, retrieving, processing, logging, and archiving of Mars images.
  • Monitors the health and safety of our flight instruments onboard the MRO daily by reviewing engineering data.
  • Examines instrument Episodic Event Reports (EVRs), assesses their implications. Checks File Exchange Interface (FEI) (that is used for science and engineering data transport from JPL) logs. Investigates anomalous values.
  • Retrieves and updates navigational information (SPICE system kernel files).
  • Creates and prepares command sequences for acquiring MARCI and CTX cameras images of Mars for review with checker.
  • Follows detailed procedures and documents work thoroughly.
  • Consistently performs complex, repetitive, detailed job tasks correctly and efficiently.
  • Responsible for meeting deadlines while under time constraints and multi-tasking pressure, all while maintaining an extremely high degree of accuracy.
  • Works both independently and closely with colleagues on tactical tasks as well as strategic projects.
  • Takes personal initiative to find, and possibly solve, document and prevent future problems.
  • Suggests solutions to problems to senior members of the group or manager.
  • Documents updated or new procedures.
  • Improves processes and procedures by noticing, suggesting and when appropriate (after group discussion) implementing operational efficiencies, writing scripts.
  • Communicates technical details clearly, accurately and quickly in written and spoken format.
  • Makes good use of strategic time contributing ideas and implementations.
  • Daily examines recently acquired images by MARCI and CTX for any signs of camera performance degradation.
  • Assists with PDS archiving deliverables.
  • Contributes to data analysis as needed and guided by senior members, produces maps of the study area, and actively contributes to specific research projects.
  • Supports maintenance and development of shell and Python scripts (includes awk/sed), which are used for operational and science purposes. Develops scripts to automate operational processes.
  • Works closely with other members of the Orbital Group, while also being self-sufficient.
  • Assists MSSS science personnel in scientific research, as requested and directed.
  • Attends meetings as needed.
  • Occasional travel may be required.

 

Non-Essential Duties

  • Performs other duties as required or requested which may become essential to this position.


Minimum Qualifications  

  • B.S./M.S./Ph.D. in Physics, Computer Science, Planetary Science, Geoscience, Astronomy, or engineering is required.
  • Requires UNIX experience.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and oral are required.
  • Must have high attention to detail, ability to multi-task, and meet demanding weekly deadlines.
  • Must have good organizational skills.
  • Requires Microsoft Office skills (PowerPoint, Excel, Word).
  • Occasional travel may be required.

 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Programming experience (shell scripting, C/C++, Python).
  • Ability to understand remote sensing data.
  • Knowledge and experience with statistical methods of data analysis.
  • Experience using command line mapping and image processing packages (GDAL, ISIS, IDL, GMT, ImageMagick).
  • Knowledge and experience in geology/geography of Mars and previous involvement in geoscience work is beneficial.
  • Experience with Photoshop and Affinity.


Physical Requirement 
Must be able to remain in a stationary position operating a computer for periods of time, while handling multiple priorities simultaneously. Must be able to communicate clearly in multiple formats and with a variety of people amidst constant input from colleagues on the phone, in chat rooms and in the office. Ability to handle stressful deadlines. Must possess good analytical skills and be able to comprehend and interpret large amounts of data both individually and with others. Must be able to sustain an extremely high attention to detail over periods of time. 


Disclaimer
The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. The Employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

 

MSSS is an EEO/AA/Disability/Vets Employer