NASA Human Spaceflight Artificial Intelligence (AI) Software Engineer and Data Scientist
CACI Open · verified Oct 22, 2026 At a glance
Mid-level AI Research role at CACI. Houston · full-time · $76,000–$155,700 base.
aimlroles summary, based on the employer's posting.
What you'll do
- Build AI applications for human spaceflight, from software design through development and testing
- Translate software needs into requirements and design documents, then check the finished work against them
- Learn the operations or capability behind each AI application and investigate mismatches found during testing
- Show AI capabilities to stakeholders through presentations and demonstrations, while shaping features around customer needs
- Follow Johnson Space Center software practices and coordinate schedules with engineers and users
What you bring
- A bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science or a related discipline is required
- At least three years developing software across its full lifecycle, including Python programming
- Hands-on work developing AI models and software, with experience training a machine-learning model
- Practical knowledge of large language models, machine learning, data science and artificial intelligence
- U.S. citizenship or permanent residency to access government facilities
Who this fits
This role suits a technically strong, collaborative engineer who can explain complex AI ideas clearly, manage competing work with limited supervision, and adapt to changing assignments. You’ll work at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston and may travel within the continental United States, up to ten percent.
From the employer
The Opportunity:
CACI is looking for an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Software Engineer and Data Scientist to provide NASA Johnson Space Center with artificial intelligence expertise and software skills in design, development, and testing of AI software applications to enhance human space flight capabilities. This is a new initiative for potentially laying the groundwork for what may become a larger digital transformation program.
Examples of applying AI technologies to human space flight include development of: 1) an AI system that can support the NASA systems engineering process, 2) an AI system to assist mission control console operators during human space flight, 3) an AI system to support prognostics of the performance of spacecraft hardware such as batteries and avionics components in space conditions, and 4) an AI system that can assist in unit testing of human-rated flight software. The position includes working with other engineers, interacting with users, developing, and prioritizing new features based on customer needs, customer service, managing schedule, and giving large presentations and demonstrations.
This position requires a self-motivated, capable person with strong verbal and written communication skills. In addition to outstanding technical expertise, the individual must be very people savvy, have strong customer relationship skills, possess a positive team-player attitude, be flexible and willing to take on new assignments and responsibilities as they arise, and be an articulate speaker able to communicate complex technical ideas in a convincing manner. The individual must share our passion for our Nation's Space Program and share in the excitement of developing the next human-rated space vehicles.
This work takes place at NASA/JSC in Houston, TX, a highly stimulating and dynamic environment that is critical in human space flight and the space exploration initiative.
Responsibilities:
- Develop AI software for human space flight applications.
- Gather software requirements and develop software design documents.
- Gain an in-depth understanding of the process or capability to which AI technologies are being applied.
- Perform testing to verify requirements are being met and validate the software.
- Perform troubleshooting of any discrepancies.
- Present and give demonstrations of AI capabilities to the various stakeholders.
- Adhere to JSC standard software process practices.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident to facilitate access to USG facilities.
- B.S. in Computer, Software, Aerospace, Electrical, or Systems Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline required.
- 3+ years of software development experience encompassing the full software product lifecycle. Greater experience is highly valued.
- Python programming experience.
- Experience developing AI models and software.
- Practical experience with Large Language Models (LLMs), Machine Learning, Data Science and AI.
- Experience training a Machine Learning model.
- Must be flexible, open to new challenges in a dynamic environment, and possess strong technical expertise combined with strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities with little supervision.
- Must be a highly responsible, team-oriented individual with strong work ethic.
- Must have highly developed coordination and organization skills.
Desired:
- M.S./PhD in Computer, Software Engineering, or Computer Science with a focus on AI, Data Science, or related discipline.
- Experience with space vehicle mission operations.
- C++ programming experience.
- Experience with space vehicle systems, e.g., Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS).
- Software User Interface (UI) and/or User Experience (UX) experience.
What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you’ll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer’s missions and driven by a higher purpose – to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You’ll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground — in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$76,000 - 155,700 USDCACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.