Software Engineer III-IV

Associated Universities Inc • CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is seeking an experienced Software Engineer (Level III or IV, based on qualifications) to join the Science Information Services Operations Group. This role will support and modernize critical scientific software tools and web infrastructure for NRAO and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). The position is based in Charlottesville, VA.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
• 3+ years of professional software development experience, with a strong focus on web application development and system migration projects.
• Proficiency in modern web technologies, including Python (Django or FastAPI preferred), JavaScript/TypeScript, HTML/CSS, Spring boot, Angular and relational databases.
• Experience migrating legacy applications (PHP, older Python frameworks, Plone/FosWiki, or similar CMS/ticketing systems) to current architectures.
• Solid understanding of web servers (Apache/Tomcat), databases (MySQL/PostgreSQL), and deployment practices.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders (including scientists).
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with helpdesk/ticketing systems (Deskpro or similar) and interest in SaaS migration strategies.
• Familiarity with scientific research environments or large-scale observatory/astronomy projects (ALMA or NRAO experience is a plus).
• Knowledge of containerization (Docker), orchestration (Kubernetes), and CI/CD pipelines.
• Experience with modern frontend frameworks (React, Vue, or Svelte) and responsive design.
• Understanding of accessibility, security best practices, and performance optimization for public-facing web applications.

Responsibilities

• Provide development support for the ALMA Dashboard software during its Phase-A activities, including implementing new features and fixing issues.
• Collaborate closely with the Subsystem Scientist.
• Maintain and improve NRAO and ALMA science helpdesk platforms.
• Drive the migration of legacy organizational websites and applications from outdated technologies to modern, maintainable solutions.
• Design, implement, and maintain robust CI/CD pipelines to automate building, testing, and deployment processes.
• Work closely with scientists, operations staff, and other engineering teams to deliver reliable, user-focused solutions.

Benefits

• Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days)
• Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment.
• AUI’s retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level