Software Engineer II
AURATucson, Arizona, United States
Posted September 26, 2025
92800 - 102200 USD year
Full Time
About the Company
The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) is a consortium of 47 U.S. institutions and three international partners that operates world‑class astronomical observatories on behalf of the National Science Foundation and NASA. AURA manages three flagship facilities—NOIRLab, the National Solar Observatory, and the Space Telescope Science Institute—providing cutting‑edge instrumentation, data pipelines, and telescope operations to support frontier research in optical, infrared, and solar astronomy. Beyond its scientific mission, AURA is a leader in science communication and public outreach, translating complex discoveries into engaging educational experiences. Its collaborative model, combined with a deep commitment to accessibility and innovation, makes AURA a unique and highly respected partner in the global astronomy community.
Job Description
NOIRLab's Data Management and Software division is seeking a Software Development Engineer II who will integrate and optimize backend technologies, observatory control systems and infrastructure engineering.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science or a related technical field
- 4+ years of professional software engineering experience in backend or systems programming roles
- Extensive, proven experience with Python, C and C++
- Extensive, proven experience designing, building and maintaining distributed systems or services in a real-time or data-intensive environment
- Proven high-level proficiency of software engineering fundamentals, including algorithms, data structures, concurrency, version control, CI/CD, etc.
- Extensive, proven experience working with APIs, network protocols or hardware integration
- Proven high-level proficiency in problem-solving and debugging, including experience with live systems and production-quality software
- Clear and effective communicator, adept at documenting and conveying technical information to non-technical audiences
- Comfortable working with a remote, globally distributed team
- Physically capable of working at the KPNO site, located at an elevation of approximately 6,800 ft.
Benefits
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan contributions
