STScI Deputy Director

The Space Telescope Science Institute advances humanity’s exploration of the universe by ensuring open access to frontier space observatories and comprehensive scientific data services.  STScI is the operational home of the Hubble Space Telescope, the James Webb Space Telescope, and the upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, along with ever-growing data archives and public outreach. These missions are guided by a world-class staff of astronomers who support all areas of mission activity and conduct their own self-guided independent research. With continued scientific success of both the Hubble and the James Webb Space Telescopes, STScI begins a new and exciting multi-mission era that will grow again with Roman and future strategic missions (e.g., the Habitable Worlds Observatory).

We are seeking an experienced leader to serve as the STScI Deputy Director, a member of the STScI executive leadership team reporting to the STScI Director.  This role is focused primarily on ensuring effective internal operations of STScI and our missions, enabling strategic multi-mission innovations, and maintaining positive working culture for all staff.   The Deputy Director is responsible multi-mission operational and tactical leadership, issue management, and conflict resolution to assist in achieving STScI’s objectives. The Deputy Director works with the STScI Mission Heads and Associate Directors to align execution across the Institute’s multiple missions toward shared Institute strategic objectives. The Deputy also supports the Director in engagement with key external stakeholders and the scientific community to demonstrate the value of STScI and the progress in the execution of our missions. 

The ideal candidate has extensive experience leading operations of a large-scale scientific facility.   Demonstrated strong leadership, excellent communication skills, effective project management and execution, adaptability, and a strong commitment to service are required for success in this role.  The candidate will have earned PhD in astronomy or astrophysics and a history of research excellence or equivalent in a field relevant to STScI’s missions.

The Space Telescope Science Institute is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) and is based on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland. This position can support hybrid work, with at least three days on site per week. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV). Some travel is required. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Internal Management and Operations:

• Oversees the STScI Leadership Team; coordinates the leadership engagement and communications across Mission Offices and Divisions
• High-level oversight and line-management of assigned Mission Offices and the Instruments Division
• Provides cross-mission operational coordination, including strategic innovations, resource allocation, and STScI-wide priority setting
• Lead long-range multi-mission workforce planning at enterprise level
• Identify and support new growth opportunities and efficiency gains in operations
• Ensures science-first focus on multi-mission operational outcomes

Team Leadership:

• Works with the Director, Chief of Staff, and Associate Directors to set STScI-wide strategic objectives and strategic plans
• Lead STScI-wide projects and strategic initiatives on behalf of the Director’s Office, as assigned
• Leads the staff engagement survey, awards committees, and supporting activities to monitor and foster strong positive working culture and employee morale
• Supports the Director’s Office engagement with the STScI scientific staff on matters relating to research support, promotions, and internal research environment.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• High-level oversight and line-management of the Office of Public Outreach Head
• Represents STScI within the AURA leadership and supports cross-AURA initiatives as needed.
• Leads preparations for external oversight committee meetings and visiting committees, including Board approvals for new proposals and contracts.
• Represents STScI and the Director at user committee meetings and the scientific meetings.
• Maintains and supports strong working relationships with NASA and ESA leadership and other partners.
• Engages with the scientific community on future of space-based astronomy, including National Academy recommendations and the future of STScI’s missions

Executive Support:

• Discharges the duties of the Director in the event of her absence, according to STScI policy
• Leadership and assumption of other duties as assigned by the Director

The annual salary range for this title is $275,000 - $315,000.  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 should submit a cover letter, complete CV, and list of professional references as a single pdf. The cover letter should address the candidate’s excitement about STScI’s missions, explain how their experience provides the background and skills to lead a complex science organization, and share thoughts about the changing landscape and future direction of astrophysics. Note that references will not be contacted until the final stage of the process. Complete applications received by July 27th will receive full consideration.  Reference #: HRC0015416

Please ONLY use this link to apply: https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/89413

We offer an excellent and comprehensive benefits package, generous retirement, work life balance and a stimulating and diverse work environment. Explore our benefits: http://www.stsci.edu/opportunities/benefits

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at [email protected].

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