HLS Manager

Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy

11d•$174,000 - $216,000

About The Position

The NSF Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST)—operated by the National Solar Observatory (NSO)—is the world’s largest and most advanced solar telescope. Designed to transform our understanding of the Sun and its magnetic environment, DKIST began operations in November 2021 atop Haleakalā, Maui. The NSO is an NSF national research and development center dedicated to solar science and is managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), a consortium of 49 U.S. institutions and 3 international affiliates. We are seeking an accomplished High‑Level Software (HLS) Manager to lead the development, reliability, and continuous evolution of the mission‑critical software that powers DKIST operations. This role oversees a geographically distributed team of engineers in Maui and Boulder and plays a key leadership role in ensuring the observatory’s software infrastructure meets the scientific demands and long‑term vision of DKIST.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or engineering.
15+ years experience in software development in a research or scientific environment.
5+ years each working with: Java Multi-threaded, distributed systems Python, C++, and Java (combined experience)
5+ years experience in solar physics, astronomy, or scientific project software development.
Experience developing and deploying software on Linux systems.
Familiarity with modern software frameworks, tools, and best practices.
Ability to prepare hardware/software cost estimates, budget projections, and purchase requests.
Strong communication, leadership, writing, and presentation skills.
Commitment to remaining knowledgeable about current hardware and software technologies.
Sensitivity to cultural and environmental considerations, especially relevant to Hawai‘i.

Nice To Haves

Experience with large telescope or instrumentation software systems.
Experience with Agile development methodologies (e.g., JIRA).
Certifications in Java, Linux, and/or Networking.
Experience with equipment control systems, databases, communication middleware, user interfaces, real‑time systems, or motion‑control programming.

Responsibilities

Lead and mentor the DKIST HLS operations team, fostering professional growth, collaboration, and a positive, inclusive work environment.
Set technical direction, establish priorities, and drive alignment with DKIST’s scientific mission and operational needs.
Partner closely with the Instrumentation & HLS Group Manager and the Maui Technical Operations Manager to coordinate development efforts across locations.
Oversee the reliability, performance, and adaptability of DKIST’s operational software systems.
Guide design, implementation, and deployment of new HLS features, system enhancements, user interaction improvements, security practices, and networking capabilities.
Support summit operations through diagnostics, maintenance, upgrades, and real‑time troubleshooting.
Collaborate with science, operations, and engineering teams to ensure seamless and functional telescope operations.
Contribute technical leadership in integrating new instruments or software systems.
Manage the HLS budget, including staffing, hardware acquisitions, and external contracts.
Provide coaching, performance feedback, and professional development for team members.
Ensure compliance with AURA property management policies and government award terms as defined in the Vela Award Management system.
Remain current with industry best practices, emerging technologies, and modern software frameworks.
Other duties as assigned

Benefits

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources [https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/benefits-by-location/]

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