Data Science Engineer Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Maryland
Data science engineer visa sponsorship jobs in Maryland are concentrated around the Baltimore-Washington corridor, with major employers including Northrop Grumman, Leidos, SAIC, and Johns Hopkins University. The region's dense federal contracting sector, strong life sciences industry, and proximity to NSA and NIH headquarters make Maryland one of the more active states for data science engineering roles.
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INTRODUCTION
The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), is NASA’s science operations center for missions including the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes. STScI leads observation planning, data analysis, public engagement, and data archiving for flagship missions. Our staff spans astronomy, engineering, education, IT, communications, and administration—working together to bring space science to the world. STScI is seeking a Leader for the Data Science Mission Office.
Our world-class astronomical research center is based on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland. This role is eligible for hybrid work and will require three days of on-site presence in our Baltimore office. You must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV).
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Head of the Data Science Mission Office (DSMO) will serve as the senior strategic and scientific leader of the Institute’s data science and AI initiatives. This role shapes and advances the Institute’s vision for leveraging artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced data analytics to enable transformative discovery in astronomy.
The Head of DSMO will work with STScI staff and the wider astronomical community to define and drive high-impact initiatives at the intersection of astronomy, data science, engineering and open-source software development. They will lead internal/external initiatives and partnerships to increase data-driven scientific productivity of STScI’s missions, and to innovate in these areas. They will work to expand the scientific value of data holdings, which include the missions STScI directly operates (HST, JWST, Roman and future missions) as well as the multi-mission, multi-wavelength data of the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST), and to lower barriers to scientific discovery. In addition, to leading strategies to enable machine learning and artificial intelligence for scientific research using STScI's data archives and platforms. While ensuring that AI technologies are scientifically rigorous, strategically aligned with the Institute’s mission, and ethically implemented.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Develop, implement and communicate a clear vision for the data science strategy for STScI
- Identify and leverage science-enhancing synergies in data science across STScI missions in collaboration with senior leadership
- Set priorities to explore and deliver new technologies, services, and infrastructures that advance scientific discovery
- Strategically identify and advance high-level organizational priorities for data science
Research & Science Advancement
- Enhance research activities, capabilities, and outcomes for STScI science staff to help them adopt new data science technologies
- Support the broader astronomical community, particularly those working with space missions and archives supported by STScI
- Dedicate a portion of working time to self-directed research
Operations & Data Engineering
- Support improvement of STScI operations and services through modern data management, data engineering, and data science techniques
- Advance capabilities for enabling analysis of peta-scale data archives by the astronomical community
- Foster close partnerships among engineering teams, scientists, and the astronomical community
- Manage the MAST contract and ensure the success of archive initiatives within the purview of that contract
Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
- Represent STScI's work to external partners including government agencies (e.g., NASA), advisory and oversight committees, and the scientific community
- Facilitate consensus from key partners to turn strategic vision into meaningful activities and deliverable results
- Communicate effectively with individuals, teams, and management throughout STScI, AURA, and associated communities
Leadership and Management Responsibilities
- Develop and communicate a clear vision and strategy for the Data Science Mission Office aligned with the Institute's overall
- Provide leadership and guidance to subordinate managers and staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence
- Conduct periodic reviews and assessments of Data Science Mission Office policies and procedures
- Provide mentorship and learning environments for staff
Decision Making
- Make informed and timely decisions on strategic and operational matters, balancing short-term needs with long-term goals
- Collaborate with other senior leaders to align decisions with the overall strategic direction of the Institute
Budgetary Planning and Resource Allocation
- Develop and manage Data Science Mission Office budgets, ensuring resources are allocated appropriately to support operational needs and strategic initiatives
- Identify opportunities for cost optimization and efficiency
- Allocate staff and capital resources effectively to meet Data Science Mission Office and organizational objectives
Performance Management
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the performance of each function within the Data Science Mission
- Implement performance improvement initiatives as necessary
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate with other mission and division heads and senior managers to ensure seamless and efficient integration and coordination across the Institute
- Foster a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex organizational challenges
Risk Management
- Identify and assess risks related to Data Science Mission Office
- Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to safeguard organizational assets and goals
Stakeholder Engagement
- Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, partners, and
- Represent the Data Science Mission Office and STScI in external forums and industry events
KNOWLEDGE
Deep knowledge of astronomical data systems, AI/ML research, and data governance. Understanding of ethical and regulatory frameworks for AI use in scientific contexts. Demonstrated experience in budgetary planning and management. Strong knowledge of relevant regulations, compliance standards, and contractual obligations.
SKILLS
Strong scientific writing, technical communication, and public speaking skills. Expertise in advanced data analysis, machine learning pipelines, and scientific software development. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent organizational and planning skills and time management.
ABILITIES
Ability to synthesize complex scientific and technical domains into a cohesive strategic vision. Successfully navigate institutional, federal, and cross-sector environments with credibility and influence. Inspire collaboration and drive innovation across disciplines.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field
- Significant research and technical experience applying AI/ML to scientific domains, preferably in astronomy
- Demonstrated leadership in complex, interdisciplinary initiatives involving data science, AI infrastructure, or strategic technology planning
- A record of impactful scientific publications and community engagement
The annual salary range for this title is $210-250K. The posted salary range represents a general guideline; however, STScI considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers, such as internal pay equity, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education, and skill, and current market conditions.
Candidates are asked to submit one PDF that includes a cover letter, resume/ CV and contact information for three references. References will not be contacted until later in the selection process. In your cover letter, please describe your vision for the future of data science in astronomy, and in particular, how you see data science shaping the future of STScI.
Complete applications received by August 31st will receive full consideration. Reference #: HRC0016182
We offer an excellent and comprehensive benefits package, generous retirement, work life balance and a stimulating and diverse work environment.
Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
Data Science Engineer Job Roles in Maryland
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Search Data Science Engineer Jobs in MarylandData Science Engineer Jobs in Maryland: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies sponsor visas for data science engineers in Maryland?
Federal contractors and technology firms lead visa sponsorship for data science engineers in Maryland. Companies like Northrop Grumman, Leidos, Booz Allen Hamilton, SAIC, and Maximus regularly file H-1B visa petitions for data-focused engineering roles. Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland also sponsor data science engineers, particularly for research-adjacent positions. Life sciences firms in the Montgomery County biotech corridor are an additional source of sponsorship activity.
Which visa types are most common for data science engineer roles in Maryland?
The H-1B is the most common visa for data science engineers in Maryland, given that the role typically requires a bachelor's degree or higher in computer science, statistics, or a related field, satisfying the specialty occupation requirement. Researchers at universities like Johns Hopkins may also encounter J-1 visa or O-1 visas. Candidates from Australia may be eligible for the E-3 visa, and Canadian or Mexican nationals may qualify under the TN visa category.
Which cities in Maryland have the most data science engineer sponsorship jobs?
The Baltimore metropolitan area and the Maryland suburbs of Washington, D.C., are the primary hiring centers for data science engineers in the state. Rockville, Bethesda, and Silver Spring in Montgomery County host a high concentration of biotech, health IT, and federal agency contractors. Columbia and Annapolis Junction are also notable, partly due to proximity to NSA and defense intelligence facilities that require data engineering expertise.
How to find data science engineer visa sponsorship jobs in Maryland?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international candidates seeking visa sponsorship, making it a practical starting point for data science engineer roles in Maryland. You can filter by role and state to see positions where employers have a documented history of sponsoring work visas. Given the volume of federal contracting activity in Maryland, filtering by industry or employer type on Migrate Mate can help you focus on the segments most active in sponsorship.
Are there state-specific considerations for data science engineers seeking sponsorship in Maryland?
Maryland's federal contracting sector introduces a factor that matters for visa holders: many defense and intelligence-adjacent roles require security clearances, which are generally not available to non-U.S. persons. This narrows the pool of sponsoring positions for international candidates. However, civilian roles at universities, healthcare systems, and commercial tech firms in the state are not subject to this restriction, and those segments represent meaningful sponsorship activity for data science engineers.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored data science engineer jobs in Maryland?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.