Entry Level Astronomy Data Analysis Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for a Full-Time Operations Analyst to support our customers at USNO DC.

CPI supports the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO) Operations Center in Washington, D.C. - USNO's single secure location for executing and monitoring the automated generation of the Navy's key operational timing and astrometric products. USNO determines and disseminates precise time and time interval (PTTI), Earth orientation parameters (EOP), and precise positions of celestial bodies for the Department of Defense, other federal agencies, and the public. These products underpin navigation, platform orientation, communications, intelligence, command and control, mission planning, and electronic warfare systems.

The Operations Analyst works as a member of the Operations Center watch team, reporting to a watch team lead. The primary responsibility is executing and monitoring the automated generation of USNO operational products and ensuring customer access to them. This includes:

• Direct and remote inspection of hardware and monitoring the health status of automated data acquisition and reduction systems supporting Master Clock time determination and dissemination, EOP solutions, and VLBI data transfer and correlation
• Recognizing anomalous conditions and distinguishing between unusual-but-acceptable behavior and situations requiring intervention, drawing on familiarity with multiple data sources and products
• Taking timely remedial action per SOPs, established procedures, or direction from subject matter experts when unexpected results or alarm conditions occur
• Interacting with data providers and product users - reporting product availability, responding to routine inquiries, and escalating alarm situations to the appropriate USNO personnel per SOP contact lists
• Coordinating with the watch team lead, supervisor, and USNO technical staff on system functionality, SOP effectiveness, and assignment planning

This is a 24/7 watch operation. The position requires shift work and is designated Mission Essential - the incumbent may be directed to report during inclement weather, installation closure, or other emergency situations, and may be required to work off-hours shifts as the mission requires.

• BS from an ABET-accredited institution in physics, astronomy, geophysics, engineering, computer science, or a closely related physical science discipline.

3 years of relevant technical experience, to include:

• Monitoring, operating, or troubleshooting automated data acquisition, processing, or control systems in an operational (not purely research) environment
• Working from written standard operating procedures and applying judgment where guidance is incomplete or does not cleanly fit the situation
• Analyzing technical data to identify anomalies, and communicating findings clearly in writing and verbally
• Working knowledge of the mathematics and basic statistics underlying the physical sciences
• Watch floor, NOC, SOC, mission control, or other 24/7 operations center experience
• Familiarity with precise timing (PTTI), atomic clocks, GNSS, Earth orientation, or VLBI/radio astronomy data
• Linux system administration and monitoring tools (e.g., Nagios, Zabbix, Grafana); scripting in Python, Bash, or Perl
• Experience with hardware inspection, rack-level equipment, and instrumentation
• Prior U.S. military operations, technician, or DoD contractor experience

Active Secret clearance required at start; must be eligible for and willing to be processed for Top Secret / SCI.

U.S. citizenship is required for DoD contracts.

• Location: USNO, DC
• On-Site Requirements: On Site
• Employment Type: Full-Time
• Salary Range: $105,000 - $125,000

We love science! We study the physical properties of the Earth and our atmosphere, neighboring planets, and the sun. We make the study of science practical by translating our findings into products, both hardware and software, that make our customer's lives easier and better. CPI has served various U.S. Government agencies, universities, international science organizations, prime contractors, as well as commercial customers for 40 years.

CPI is an employee-owned company -- our team members receive company stock. Employee ownership motivates and empowers increased productivity, contribution to the longevity of the business, improved retention, and enhanced employee engagement.

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
• Positive, upbeat, and transparent company culture with opportunities for self-development and career advancement
• Employee-owned small business that allows team members to learn from each other and take ownership
• Professional development support including conference attendance and certification training

• 401(k), Profit Sharing and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Disability insurance (short-term and long-term)
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health, Dental and Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental Leave
• Tuition reimbursement

To apply please visit our careers page.

CPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis.