Position Description:Position SummaryThe National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) is a nonprofit organization that manages and operates the NRAO under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation. The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration, operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe.
NRAO is seeking an experienced Software Engineer to plan, design, and implement software applications that will advance our ability to conduct NRAO science without harmful radio frequency interference (RFI). NRAO undertakes a variety of activities directed at understanding the local RFI environments and maintaining a clean electromagnetic environment in and around its facilities, including testing of installed equipment, formulating rules regarding operation of installed and visiting equipment, and mitigating or remediating externally interfering sources. Sophisticated software solutions are needed to support these activities, including monitoring site spectrum conditions, reviewing resulting spectral plots, and tracking observer reports to detect new, unknown RF emissions. In this position, you will enhance and develop RFI-focused software applications. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to the development of tools critical to the next generation Very Large Array (ngVLA).
This position is term-limited based on an initial one-year funding commitment. The position may be extended based on the availability of funding. The position will be based in Albuquerque, NM, Socorro, NM, Charlottesville, VA or Green Bank, WV. For well qualified candidates, a remote work arrangement may be considered.
What You Will be DoingNRAO has led the development of coordination techniques in conjunction with satellite operators to achieve dynamic spectrum sharing and spectrum coexistence. NRAO's Operational Data Sharing (ODS) system protects sensitive radio astronomy observations from interference caused by satellite downlink transmissions. ODS is operational for the VLA and is being enhanced to include GBT information. This position will support the important work of enhancements to GBT observations to support the expanded use of ODS at that site.
In this position, you will have the opportunity to apply your skills and technical knowledge to developing modern and streamlined software applications. You will have the opportunity to work collaboratively across all the NRAO telescope sites to develop unified solutions while also specifically supporting solutions for the GBT.
Additional duties include both the maintenance and necessary upgrades of existing operational software as well as developing new products to meet the challenges posed by the new observing paradigms necessary for the Observatory to remain at the cutting edge of science and technology.
Work EnvironmentThe successful candidate will join a team of professionals engaged in research and development in the fields of science, engineering, software development, and education. 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 both verbally and in writing.
Who You Are:Education- A Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, scientific or related field; highly relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a Bachelor's degree.
- While not required, you may have an advanced degree in a related field.
Experience- You will have one or more years of experience in the development of software applications; candidates with progressively more experience will be considered for a higher-level position ranking. In addition, you will have the following skills:
- 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
Skills and CompetenciesThe ability to design, develop, modify, and support complex user-facing systems, interfacing with other systems and databases.
Additional RequirementObservatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States. The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.
Total Rewards:CompensationThe starting salary of this position is between $87,000 and $121,000. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include; education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications of the successful candidate, as well as internal equity and labor market conditions.
Benefits:Associated Universities, Inc (AUI) offers a comprehensive benefits package addressing the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment, subject to eligibility requirements. AUI provides:
- 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.
- Click Total Rewards for more information.
Application Instructions:Select the "Apply" button above. Please be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to PM20
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