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Summer Software Assistant

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Jun 16, 2025

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 Summary

Caltech Optical Observatories is inviting qualified candidates to apply for the position of Summer Software Assistant within its Optical and Infrared (OIR) Instrumentation Group. The OIR Group develops world-class visible and infrared astronomical adaptive optics systems, imaging cameras, and spectrographs for the Palomar, Keck, and Thirty Meter Telescope International Observatories, as well as other astronomical facilities and flight missions in support of Caltech faculty and student astrophysics research.

Essential Job Duties

The successful Summer Software Assistant will:
* Help develop and test low-level device control code
* Help document verification and test results
* Contribute to the integration and testing of software-controlled devices, either with software, electronics, or mechanical assistance.
* Maintain a safe and supportive working environment.
* Work collaboratively and supportively in team environments, sharing software development responsibilities and contributing toward software team objectives.
* Be aware of and comply with Institute policies, procedures, practices, and regulatory requirements.
The Successful Candidate Will:
* Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills: Show a willingness to learn what is required to implement a software task and when to ask for help or clarification.

Basic Qualifications

* Successful completion of first semester coursework towards a computer science or equivalent undergraduate degree
* Familiarity with the Python programming language
* Familiarity with the basics of software engineering
* Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Required Documents

- Resume

Hiring Range

$18.50 - $21.25 Per Hour

The 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 benefits and staff perks.


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

If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.


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