5 answers
Ryan
Student
El Monte, California
7
Questions
Asked
2386 views
How do i get in to NASA as a software Developer?
I want to be a NASA Software Developer but i dont know exactly what i should do to have a high chance to get in
Login to comment
5 answers
Lindsay Deveny-Klemm
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Lindsay’s Answer
Hi Ryan,
I would suggest to work on your software developer skills and math skills. I cannot speak to working at NASA (although that would be amazing!), but I would suggest learning what type of language NASA uses for their applications/software - then hone in your skills through constant practice and learning.
I would suggest to work on your software developer skills and math skills. I cannot speak to working at NASA (although that would be amazing!), but I would suggest learning what type of language NASA uses for their applications/software - then hone in your skills through constant practice and learning.
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Ryan
Atul Bhankharia
Sales
481
Answers
Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Updated
Atul’s Answer
Whether it is NASA or any company - know what they do and what specific knowledge they are seeking.
Is the job requires Computer Engineering or Computer Science- there is a big difference in these two majors.
Take challenging courses in your major and have high GPA - the employers will come to you vs you going to them.
Is the job requires Computer Engineering or Computer Science- there is a big difference in these two majors.
Take challenging courses in your major and have high GPA - the employers will come to you vs you going to them.
I will use this advice as I prepare for my career.
Ryan
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7219
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Ryan!
How to Get into NASA as a Software Developer
To pursue a career as a software developer at NASA, you need to follow a structured approach that includes education, skill development, networking, and understanding the application process. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps you should take:
1. Educational Background
A strong educational foundation is crucial for becoming a software developer at NASA. Typically, candidates hold at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Some positions may require advanced degrees (master’s or Ph.D.) depending on the complexity of the projects.
Bachelor’s Degree: Focus on courses that cover programming languages (such as Python, Java, C++, etc.), algorithms, data structures, systems programming, and software engineering principles.
Advanced Degrees: Consider pursuing graduate studies if you aim for specialized roles or research positions.
2. Develop Relevant Skills
In addition to formal education, developing specific technical skills is essential:
Programming Languages: Proficiency in multiple programming languages is important. Familiarize yourself with languages commonly used in aerospace applications.
Software Development Methodologies: Understand Agile and DevOps practices as they are often employed in software development environments.
Tools and Technologies: Gain experience with version control systems (like Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and testing frameworks.
3. Gain Practical Experience
Hands-on experience can significantly enhance your resume:
Internships: Apply for internships at NASA or other aerospace companies. Internships provide practical experience and networking opportunities.
Projects: Work on personal or open-source projects that demonstrate your coding skills and problem-solving abilities. Contributing to platforms like GitHub can showcase your work to potential employers.
4. Networking
Building connections within the industry can open doors:
Professional Organizations: Join organizations such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) or IEEE Computer Society to meet professionals in the field.
Conferences and Workshops: Attend industry conferences to learn about new technologies and meet potential employers.
5. Understand NASA’s Mission and Culture
Familiarize yourself with NASA’s goals, missions, and values:
Research Projects: Stay informed about current projects at NASA by visiting their official website (nasa.gov) and reading publications related to their missions.
Cultural Fit: Understanding NASA’s culture will help you tailor your application materials effectively.
6. Application Process
When you’re ready to apply:
Job Listings: Regularly check USAJOBS (usajobs.gov) for job openings at NASA.
Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight relevant experiences that align with the job description.
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your technical skills through coding challenges or technical interviews.
By following these steps diligently, you can increase your chances of securing a position as a software developer at NASA.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
NASA Official Website
The primary source for information regarding careers at NASA including job listings, internship opportunities, and insights into their mission.
USAJOBS
The official job site of the U.S. government where all federal job openings are posted including those available at NASA.
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
A professional organization that provides resources for aerospace professionals including networking opportunities and industry-related events.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|=============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==============|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
How to Get into NASA as a Software Developer
To pursue a career as a software developer at NASA, you need to follow a structured approach that includes education, skill development, networking, and understanding the application process. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps you should take:
1. Educational Background
A strong educational foundation is crucial for becoming a software developer at NASA. Typically, candidates hold at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Some positions may require advanced degrees (master’s or Ph.D.) depending on the complexity of the projects.
Bachelor’s Degree: Focus on courses that cover programming languages (such as Python, Java, C++, etc.), algorithms, data structures, systems programming, and software engineering principles.
Advanced Degrees: Consider pursuing graduate studies if you aim for specialized roles or research positions.
2. Develop Relevant Skills
In addition to formal education, developing specific technical skills is essential:
Programming Languages: Proficiency in multiple programming languages is important. Familiarize yourself with languages commonly used in aerospace applications.
Software Development Methodologies: Understand Agile and DevOps practices as they are often employed in software development environments.
Tools and Technologies: Gain experience with version control systems (like Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and testing frameworks.
3. Gain Practical Experience
Hands-on experience can significantly enhance your resume:
Internships: Apply for internships at NASA or other aerospace companies. Internships provide practical experience and networking opportunities.
Projects: Work on personal or open-source projects that demonstrate your coding skills and problem-solving abilities. Contributing to platforms like GitHub can showcase your work to potential employers.
4. Networking
Building connections within the industry can open doors:
Professional Organizations: Join organizations such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) or IEEE Computer Society to meet professionals in the field.
Conferences and Workshops: Attend industry conferences to learn about new technologies and meet potential employers.
5. Understand NASA’s Mission and Culture
Familiarize yourself with NASA’s goals, missions, and values:
Research Projects: Stay informed about current projects at NASA by visiting their official website (nasa.gov) and reading publications related to their missions.
Cultural Fit: Understanding NASA’s culture will help you tailor your application materials effectively.
6. Application Process
When you’re ready to apply:
Job Listings: Regularly check USAJOBS (usajobs.gov) for job openings at NASA.
Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight relevant experiences that align with the job description.
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your technical skills through coding challenges or technical interviews.
By following these steps diligently, you can increase your chances of securing a position as a software developer at NASA.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
NASA Official Website
The primary source for information regarding careers at NASA including job listings, internship opportunities, and insights into their mission.
USAJOBS
The official job site of the U.S. government where all federal job openings are posted including those available at NASA.
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
A professional organization that provides resources for aerospace professionals including networking opportunities and industry-related events.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|=============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==============|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Matt Whisler
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Castle Rock, Colorado
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Hey Ryan,
Aside from studying Computer Science concepts to have the foundation to grow as a software engineer, I would recommend...
1. Apply for their internships. This is one of the best ways to get into companies.
2. Be able to obtain security clearance(s). Jobs with government agencies and government contractors will require ability to obtain clearances. Stay out of trouble, be a good person, make good decisions.
3. Apply for related positions / internships outside of NASA. If the space missions of NASA interest you, there are many other government contractors (i.e Lockheed Martin, Space X) that have entire departments dedicated towards space. Getting experience with those companies to then make yourself more marketable for NASA might be another angle to get in.
4. Visit Space Camps, Career Fairs, Summer programs where NASA is present and network.
5. Show and demonstrate interests that align with their mission and values.
Aside from studying Computer Science concepts to have the foundation to grow as a software engineer, I would recommend...
1. Apply for their internships. This is one of the best ways to get into companies.
2. Be able to obtain security clearance(s). Jobs with government agencies and government contractors will require ability to obtain clearances. Stay out of trouble, be a good person, make good decisions.
3. Apply for related positions / internships outside of NASA. If the space missions of NASA interest you, there are many other government contractors (i.e Lockheed Martin, Space X) that have entire departments dedicated towards space. Getting experience with those companies to then make yourself more marketable for NASA might be another angle to get in.
4. Visit Space Camps, Career Fairs, Summer programs where NASA is present and network.
5. Show and demonstrate interests that align with their mission and values.
Randy Tolentino
UX Engineer
19
Answers
Updated
Randy’s Answer
Ryan, 👋
Lindsay is right, in pointing out that the skillset is important to work on first. Imagine your software development skills as your toolbox — once you've gained the right set of tools and you've refined them, then you can take them with you and apply to any company.
In terms of getting into NASA*, it's all about having the right context. A successful NASA candidate should do their homework and have a strong sense of what problems their development teams are solving. NASA actually has a GitHub account where they show some of their open-source projects — give that a quick glance and you'll see what languages/technologies they're using.
In addition, it helps to do some research and become familiar with their working culture. Take some time to research their values and mission as well. This way you know how to shape your approach and you can bring in the right interpersonal/soft-skills, as you apply.
Remember Ryan, first work on acquiring the right toolset, refine your skills, then take them with you wherever you go in your career.
*Note — I do not, nor have I ever worked for NASA. However, learning about what problems any company is trying to solve, and learning about their technologies, is helpful in any job pursuit.
Learn about open source — many companies host their code in open source public platforms
Checkout NASA on GitHub to see what programming languages they're using today
Research NASA work culture
You can follow NASA on social media to see what they're up to
Lindsay is right, in pointing out that the skillset is important to work on first. Imagine your software development skills as your toolbox — once you've gained the right set of tools and you've refined them, then you can take them with you and apply to any company.
In terms of getting into NASA*, it's all about having the right context. A successful NASA candidate should do their homework and have a strong sense of what problems their development teams are solving. NASA actually has a GitHub account where they show some of their open-source projects — give that a quick glance and you'll see what languages/technologies they're using.
In addition, it helps to do some research and become familiar with their working culture. Take some time to research their values and mission as well. This way you know how to shape your approach and you can bring in the right interpersonal/soft-skills, as you apply.
Remember Ryan, first work on acquiring the right toolset, refine your skills, then take them with you wherever you go in your career.
*Note — I do not, nor have I ever worked for NASA. However, learning about what problems any company is trying to solve, and learning about their technologies, is helpful in any job pursuit.
Randy recommends the following next steps: