Applications Developer

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.Job SummaryIPAC at Caltech is looking for a developer for the RAPID pipeline team. As a part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech, IPAC (Where You Fit InRAPID is a time-domain Project Infrastructure Team (PIT) for the upcoming NASA Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. The PIT is responsible for a low-latency pipeline to discover changes between observations, then alert astronomers for follow-up with other resources. The pipeline will run within AWS, automatically processing observations on receipt, all without a human in the loop. The PIT will also provide associated resources and services to the international community, such as historical light-curves of variable sources and an on-demand forced-photometry service. The developer will help write, validate, and tune the pipeline and services, working with scientists and engineers across several Roman teams.Essential Job DutiesDesign project architecture and interfaces.Independently develop Python modules for specific tasks.Validate performance of delivered code.Integrate modules into pipeline scaffolding.Deploy, maintain, and tune the pipeline in AWS.Communicate regularly with the rest of the RAPID team.Support off-hours activities during operations as needed.Participate in continuing career education, with occasional opportunities to attend industry conferences and related training.Basic QualificationsBachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Astronomy, Physics, Math, or a related technical field.At least 5 years of production experience in Python code development and maintenance in a complex environment.Experience with SQL.At least 5 years of experience with Linux/Unix operating systems.Good written and interpersonal communication skills, with an emphasis on the ability to share ideas in a collaborative setting.Qualify as a US PERSON as defined by ITAR regulations — a US person is a citizen of the United States, a lawful permanent resident alien of the US (“Green Card” holder), or an individual granted refugee or asylee status under US law.Preferred QualificationsBeyond these basic qualifications, there are a set of skills and experiences which will add to your ability to contribute to the roles and responsibilities. The following might give you a head start, but even if these do not describe you or your experience, we would still like to hear from you:Production experience with AWS & Apache Kafka.Development of C code (or similar) where required for performance.Operation of multi-component pipelines, including batch systems, monitoring, logging, and dashboards.Experience in automating infrastructure and code deployment, such as Terraform and GitOps.Familiarity with astronomical image differencing.Required DocumentsResumeCover letterApplications will be accepted via the Caltech website only until December 12, 2025. Preferred start date is January 2026. This is an onsite role based in Pasadena, California, with some allowability for remote work.Life at IPACPeople choose to work at IPAC for many reasons, and the casual, employee-centric culture often leads to fulfilling, long-term careers and positive relationships. Caltech’s benefits program offers a quality, competitive benefits package that is affordable for you and the Institute. We also offer a 403(b) defined contribution plan to eligible staff as well as a Voluntary Retirement Savings (TDA) Plan. IPAC staff have access to the Institute’s facilities, including the athletic center, libraries, on-site daycare, professional development and enrichment classes, and Athenaeum club membership. Hiring Range $109,200 - $134,700 Per YearThe salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position.If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting atAdditionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at