Software Engineer III

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is hiring a Software Engineer III for its Online (ONL) group in Socorro, NM (onsite). This role supports telescope operations software that translates observing plans into executable telescope observations for VLA/VLBA, while also contributing to the ngVLA online systems. Work focuses on reliable implementation of scientific requirements and operational support across the observing and data flow.

In this position, you will help build and maintain the software that sequences observations, coordinates with monitoring and control interfaces, and ensures data and metadata reach downstream processing and the archive. You will also prototype and evaluate technologies for future ngVLA online capabilities and assist with troubleshooting during observing.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain software that sequences and executes observations, including observing modes, calibration strategies, and scheduling logic
• Partner with astronomers and operations staff to convert scientific requirements into software designs and validate outputs against scientific needs
• Work with the Monitor & Control group on interfaces between observation execution and hardware control
• Support data acquisition and ensure data and metadata flow to downstream processing and the archive
• Prototype and evaluate architectures and technologies for the ngVLA online systems
• Support operations by diagnosing problems that occur during observing
• Maintain and upgrade existing software to support ongoing operations
• Develop new capabilities to meet demands from new observing modes and instrumentation

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
• 3+ years of experience developing software applications; progressively more experience may be considered for higher-level roles
• Strong preference for understanding of radio astronomy or radio interferometry concepts, such as observing modes, calibration, coordinate systems, and timing; candidates with strong software skills and willingness to learn the science are also considered
• Experience with Python and at least one object-oriented language; Java or C++ are desirable
• Experience designing and building distributed or event-driven software, including messaging between subsystems
• Experience with scientific data handling, including data and metadata models and file formats; familiarity with scientific Python tools and astronomical software is desirable
• Experience with version control, testing methodologies, and CI/CD
• Software engineering principles and Agile experience are preferred, including exposure to the complete product lifecycle
• Ability to communicate and collaborate with a diverse group of stakeholders, including scientists, engineers, and operations staff
• Enthusiasm for learning new technologies and programming languages
• Must be authorized to work in the United States; the Observatory does not sponsor H-1B visas for this position

Technologies

• Python
• Java
• C++
• CI/CD

Benefits

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

Work Environment

• Work is typically performed in a research or development environment
• Must be able to operate a personal computer
• May occasionally work at high altitudes
• Must be able to communicate effectively verbally and in writing

Compensation

Starting salary is listed in the range of $78,000 - $121,000 per year. Starting pay within this range may depend on education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications, internal equity, and labor market conditions.

Application Instructions

• Select the “Apply” button above
• Be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the position

Equal Opportunity Employer

AUI is an equal opportunity employer. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by emailing [email protected].