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Scientific Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Scientific Data Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA Β· On-site

$135K - $163K/yr

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Scientific Data Engineer within the Scientific Data Division. The Computational Biosciences Group has an immediate opening for a software and data ...

Scientific Data Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA Β· On-site

$135K - $163K/yr

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Scientific Data Engineer within the Scientific Data Division. The Computational Biosciences Group has an immediate opening for a software and data ...

Partner with device engineering teams to support global medical device submissions.**External Scientific Leadership*** Monitor emerging science, regulatory expectations and industry best practices.

Partner with device engineering teams to support global medical device submissions. External Scientific Leadership * Monitor emerging science, regulatory expectations and industry best practices.

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Scientific Programmer information

See California salary details

$10

$39

$70

How much do scientific programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific programmer in California is $39.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $56.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scientific programmer?

Scientific programmers are professionals who develop, implement, and optimize software solutions for scientific research and data analysis. They work closely with scientists and researchers to translate complex scientific problems into computational algorithms, scripts, and tools. Their work often involves programming in languages like Python, C++, or R, and may include tasks such as data processing, simulation, modeling, and visualization. Scientific programmers play a crucial role in advancing research by making scientific computations more efficient and reproducible.

What does a scientific programmer do?

The duties of a scientific programmer are to design a variety of tools for researchers to perform statistical and mathematical modeling on large datasets. They often work within a specific framework or software, and their responsibilities are to script tools that make it easier for scientists to use the programs or models. Their duties may include designing a new user interface or creating shell scripts for the UNIX or Linux operating systems. A scientific programmer also conducts code review and quality assurance tasks to ensure that programs are ready to be used. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in computer science, bioinformatics, or computational biology. If you want to specialize in a particular discipline, you may need additional experience or advanced qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scientific programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scientific Programmer, you need a solid background in computer science, mathematics, or a related field, along with strong programming skills in languages like Python, C++, or R. Familiarity with scientific computing libraries (such as NumPy, SciPy), data analysis tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required, and experience with high-performance computing or parallel processing is a plus. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are key soft skills that distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable, efficient code to support complex scientific research and for collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

How does a scientific programmer typically collaborate with researchers and other technical staff on projects?

Scientific Programmers often work closely with research scientists, data analysts, and IT teams to develop and optimize software tools for scientific studies. They participate in project meetings to understand research goals, translate scientific requirements into code, and troubleshoot issues that arise in computational workflows. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Scientific Programmers must ensure their solutions align with both technical standards and the scientific objectives of the research team.

What is the difference between Scientific Programmer vs Data Analyst?

AspectScientific ProgrammerData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science, Physics, or related fields; programming skillsBachelor's or higher in Statistics, Data Science, or related fields; analytical skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, scientific institutions, academia, industry R&DBusiness, finance, healthcare, marketing sectors
Employer & Industry UsageResearch organizations, universities, scientific companiesCorporations, consulting firms, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding technical roles in scientific computingAnalyzing data to inform decisions

Scientific Programmers focus on developing software and algorithms for scientific research, often working with complex simulations and data modeling. Data Analysts interpret data sets to generate insights and support decision-making. While both roles require strong programming skills and analytical thinking, Scientific Programmers are more involved in software development for scientific purposes, whereas Data Analysts focus on data interpretation and reporting.

Is programming a well paid job?

Programming jobs, including roles like scientific programmers, tend to offer competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Skilled programmers with expertise in specific tools or languages often earn higher wages, especially in industries like technology, finance, and research. Overall, programming can be a well-paid career compared to many other fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Programmer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Scientific Programmer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Scientific Programmer jobs in California?

For Scientific Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Scientific Programmer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Scientific Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Scientific Programmer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,833 per year, or $39.3 per hour.

OPIR/Remote Sensing Algorithm Analyst

El Segundo, CA β€’ On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country's space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

The Imagery Processing and Exploitation Department (IPED) comprises a multi-disciplinary group of highly skilled physicists, engineers and mathematicians who support a variety of United States Government space programs. The department applies its knowledge of national space systems, current technology, and image and signal processing to advise government and internal Aerospace customers on technical matters related to space-based remote sensing. IPED develops algorithms and applies mathematical principles to evaluate, develop, and exploit the spatial, spectral, and temporal content of data from cutting edge satellites and space systems.

The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA

What You'll Be Doing

  • Solve challenging problems involving multi-sensor imagery data analysis, exploitation, and integration including for overhead persistent infrared (OPIR) mission areas executed by the United States Space Force, Space Systems Command; Missile Defense Agency; Space Development Agency; and intelligence community

  • Employ mathematical principles to evaluate, develop, and select processing techniques, optimizing calibration, background suppression, signal augmentation, target detection, geolocation, and multi-target and multi-sensor tracking

  • Leveraging end-to-end data exploitation and analytics knowledge to validate novel image and signal processing algorithms

  • Apply end-to-end knowledge of data exploitation and data analytics to provide independent verification and validation of new image and signal processing algorithms and inform trade studies to optimize performance of space payloads

  • Craft innovative, multi phenomenology solutions, specialized visualizations, and analytical reports for senior government customers

What You Need to be Successful - Engineering Specialist

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in a related STEM field, particularly Remote Sensing, Imaging Science, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Optical or Electrical Engineering

  • Eight years of relevant experienceincluding 2 years supporting Space Force, National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), or Air Force space programs

  • Experience developing detection, background suppression, and tracking algorithms and their application to imagery data

  • Adept at conducting modeling and simulation, test data generation, algorithm performance trade studies, and reporting findings to stakeholders

  • Extensive numerical programming experience using Python and/or Matlab and/or C++

  • An active Top Secret/SCI security clearance

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Senior Engineering Specialist:

  • Twelve years in roles of increasing engineering/scientific responsibility including 6 years supporting Space Force, National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), or Air Force space programs

  • Demonstrated experience coordinating multi-disciplinary technical efforts across complex defense or intelligence remote sensing programs

  • Proven technical leadership, personal accountability, and adaptability to changing customer expectations

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • Demonstrated expertise in linear algebra and spectral theory, evidenced by one or more of the following:

    • Publications, patents, or technical reports using spectral methods

    • Production-grade implementation of algorithms relying on eigenvalue analysis, SVD, and related techniques

  • Advanced degree in a related STEM field, particularly Remote Sensing, Imaging Science, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Optical or Electrical Engineering

  • Published work in scientific journals or technical conferences on remote sensing or algorithm development and analysis

  • Experience applying artificial intelligence/computer vision methods to detection and tracking applications

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$129,000.00 - $249,600.00Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.