Photographer III

ARES is seeking an experienced Photographer to capture and document groundbreaking aerospace research and events. This role requires a highly skilled and creative professional with expertise in scientific, event, and documentary photography across various environments, from controlled studio settings to dynamic outdoor and airborne conditions in support of the NASA Enterprise Multimedia and Integrated Technical Services (eMITS) contract. eMITS is the Agency’s enterprise-level contract creating and delivering multimedia and technical communications through the use of the internet, digital platforms, and IT management for NASA’s Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) and Office of Communications (OCOMM). From photographing groundbreaking aeronautic missions, to producing engaging videos, to information technology management, to using social media to share NASA’s message, eMITS integrates services for NASA IT and provides NASA’s communication to the outside world. Come join us in support of NASA’s mission to inspire the world through information and discovery.

Remote, hybrid, and onsite positions, the employee bears travel costs to the nearest NASA Center for badging and the issuance of NASA IT equipment.

Job Responsibilities:

• As a Photographer III at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center, you will be responsible for capturing high-quality scientific, event, and documentary photography in both indoor and outdoor environments. You will document groundbreaking aerospace research, flight tests, and executive events, ensuring precise and visually compelling imagery that meets NASA’s technical and artistic standards.
• This role requires expertise in lighting, exposure, color correction, and composition, as many assignments will have limited opportunities for retakes.
• You will also be responsible for following guidelines set by senior staff in use of digital asset workflows, large-format printing, and work order systems, ensuring efficient organization and accessibility of photographic materials.
• In addition to photographing technical drawings, charts, and maps with precise exposure and reduction ratios, you may conduct aerial and air-to-air photography.
• The role also involves image editing, with light retouching, and minimal manipulation using industry-standard software to maintain the integrity of photo-journalistic style photography.
• As part of a dynamic team, you will collaborate with engineers, scientists, and executive leadership, providing high-quality imagery to support research, communication, and documentation efforts at one of NASA’s premier flight research centers.

education & Previous Work

• Bachelor’s degree (BS/BA), preferably in photography or a related field.
• 10 years of professional photography experience

Minimum Requirements:

• 5+ years of professional photography experience.
• Bachelor’s degree (BS/BA), preferably in photography or a related field.
• Active DoD Secret Security Clearance (or the ability to obtain one).
• Strong technical and creative photography skills, with a deep understanding of asset management and experience with large-format printing.
• Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Bridge, and other image-processing software.
• Ability to work in both indoor and outdoor settings, adapting to various environmental conditions.
• Experience managing a work order system and coordinating multiple photography requests.
• Ability to successfully collaborate with technical teams and executive leadership.
• Deep understanding of metadata and ability to follow NASA metadata standards.
• A desire to learn, follow direction from more senior staff, and contribute positive ideas.
• Required to obtain a Flight Line Driver’s License.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a government, aerospace, or research environment.
• Strong background in digital asset management, including organizing, archiving, and retrieving large volumes of media.
• Experience managing large-format printing and high-resolution imaging for research and display purposes.
• Familiarity with high-speed photography, infrared imaging, and specialized technical photography techniques.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with experience handling work order systems and procurement for photography equipment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with technical teams, researchers, and executive leadership.
• Ability to obtain the following Certifications/Licenses:
• Chase aircraft personnel requirement to qualify for flight above 25,000 feet to fly back seat. Pre-qualification requirement to pass a FAA Class III flight physical exam.

ARES is an equal opportunity employer and complies with E-Verify. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law.