Software Engineer II-III
About The Position
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), managed by Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), is a leading research organization focused on the study of the universe. NRAO operates state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities and is seeking an experienced Software Engineer to develop and implement software applications that will help mitigate radio frequency interference (RFI) and advance NRAO's scientific capabilities. This role involves supporting activities such as monitoring spectrum conditions, analyzing spectral data, and tracking interference reports. The engineer will enhance and develop RFI-focused software, contribute to tools for the next-generation Very Large Array (ngVLA), and support the Operational Data Sharing (ODS) system, which protects radio astronomy observations from satellite interference. The position will involve collaborative work across NRAO sites, with a specific focus on supporting solutions for the Green Bank Telescope (GBT). Responsibilities include maintaining and upgrading existing software, as well as developing new applications to meet evolving scientific and technological demands. This is a term-limited position with an initial one-year funding commitment, potentially extendable. The position can be based in Albuquerque, NM, Socorro, NM, Charlottesville, VA, or Green Bank, WV, with a remote work arrangement considered for well-qualified candidates.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, scientific or related field; highly relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a Bachelor's degree.
- One or more years of experience in the development of software applications.
- Experience with Python and SQLAlchemy.
- Native Python GUI (PyQt6 or similar) experience.
- Understanding of object-oriented design and development.
- Understanding of object-relational mapping.
- Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new software languages.
- Experience with version control software, testing methodologies and CI/CD.
- Experience debugging and profiling software systems.
- Strong interpersonal and communications skills.
- Web front end technologies: Angular, webpack, bootstrap, and others.
- Experience with relational databases, including database normalization and administration.
- Experience integrating software components into a functioning, maintainable system.
- Familiarity with basic astronomical principles, spectrum management, and data reduction.
- Ability to design, develop, modify, and support complex user-facing systems, interfacing with other systems and databases.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States.
- Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.
Nice To Haves
- An advanced degree in a related field.
Responsibilities
- Plan, design, and implement software applications to advance NRAO science and mitigate radio frequency interference (RFI).
- Enhance and develop RFI-focused software applications.
- Contribute to the development of tools for the next-generation Very Large Array (ngVLA).
- Support and enhance the Operational Data Sharing (ODS) system for VLA and GBT observations.
- Collaborate across NRAO telescope sites to develop unified solutions.
- Specifically support solutions for the Green Bank Telescope (GBT).
- Maintain and upgrade existing operational software.
- Develop new products to meet the challenges of new observing paradigms.
Benefits
- Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days)
- Medical, dental and vision plans
- Retirement benefit: AUI contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
