Database and Archive Interface Specialist

Job Introduction

ESO (European Organisation for Astronomical Research in the Southern Hemisphere) is a leading institution for astronomy research, operating some of the world’s most advanced observatories. With locations in Chile and Germany, ESO provides scientists worldwide with access to cutting-edge instruments and data, enabling them to explore the universe and answer fundamental questions about its origins, evolution, and structure. ESO's missions focus on ensuring the continued operation and enhancement of its astronomical archives, maintaining high-quality data accessibility, and supporting the global scientific community in their research efforts.

On behalf of our customer ESO, we are looking for a **Database and Archive Interface Specialist**to join our team in Garching, Munich. Your mission will be to manage ESO’s operational databases, including content verification and publication, while developing and maintaining efficient, user-friendly web interfaces for the astronomical community, ensuring easy access to critical data.

Main Responsibilities
Database Content Management:

- Support ESO staff in the Database Owner role: development and maintenance of database objects, including relevant documentation (tables containing metadata or quality control information from ESO instruments)
- Ensure the smooth transfer of data between ESO databases in Garching and Chile, regularly checking and synchronizing the content of databases, and developing tools or scripts for consistency checks
- Oversee and troubleshoot the process of publishing and releasing data and metadata from the ESO Archive to users
- Prepare special data releases (e.g., instrument commissioning, science verification) that are not publicly accessible
- Monitor the back-end (Archive) databases for erroneous content and implement approved repairs or corrections
- Assist ESO IT in troubleshooting database server performance issues

Archive User Interfaces:

- Support the development and maintenance of the Science Archive web presence, including platforms such as archive.eso.org, support.eso.org, and others
- Process requirements from various ESO organizational units to improve and update archive user interfaces and web services
- Design, implement, test, document, and maintain archive web-based and programmatic interfaces for the user community
- Support the installation and testing of new archive services and tools that interact with databases and provide programmatic access to data
- Assist with internal and external user inquiries related to accessing archive user interfaces, ensuring data accessibility in line with ESO’s Data Access Policy
- Publish announcements and news related to Science Archive Interface activities (e.g., data releases, maintenance, downtimes)

**_ Do you think you are the person we are looking for? See below what experience or knowledge you should bring_**:

- At least three years’ of experience working with databases using SQL, including knowledge of inner/outer joins, indexes, constraints, stored procedures, triggers, and query optimization
- Proficiency in web technologies such as HTML5, CSS, and Javascript
- At least three years’ of experience with programming languages (e.g. Unix Shell, Python, Perl), and software management fundamentals (version control, configuration control, and documentation)
- Experience with NoSQL databases and Virtual Observatory standards is an asset
- Familiarity with SAP ASE, Microsoft SQL Server, and other database management systems
- Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and external users
- Ability to work largely unsupervised and manage tasks independently while contributing to team efforts
- Fluent in English

**Nice to have**:

- Experience in managing astronomical data in FITS format
- Knowledge of database performance tuning and troubleshooting
- Familiarity with tools for web-based data access and interface development

Package Description
**On Offer**:

- Relocation allowance upon providing receipts
- Hybrid working model
- 30% subvention on Deutschland ticket
- Gym membership discount
- Participation in pension and health scheme 30 days of holiday
- **Relocation**:
Garching/Munich, Germany, offers a central location in Europe, making it an ideal base for travel and business within the EU. Major cities are well-connected by road, rail, and air, with Munich Airport being one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in Europe, facilitating easy international travel.