Science Software Developer (IT Specialist)

Science Software Developer (IT Specialist) 

Chandra X-ray Telescope Data System

(1 positions: science software developer) 

This is an opportunity with the Data Systems division of the Chandra X-ray Center, which is part of the High Energy Astrophysics Division of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge MA. One of NASA’s Great Observatories, the Chandra X-ray telescope has been observing for over 20 years and continues to have a positive impact on the scientific understanding of the universe. We seek a science software developer to contribute to the continued success of the mission. 

Join the Chandra X-ray Center and become part of the team working to support and maintain the science libraries and tools of the Data system software development group. The individual will work with the existing software development team to extend system capabilities in response to operational and scientific requests, design and implement new algorithms in collaboration with scientists & developers, maintain existing libraries and tools through system upgrades and migrations, and support the software system through all phases of the software development cycle. 

Specific Duties include: 

- Communication with technical staff and scientists for software requirements and testing 

- Developing and maintaining software through all phases of the software development lifecycle

- Documenting software for CXC operations staff and scientific users worldwide

- Problem analysis and evaluation in support of science operations

- Work as part of a team 

Knowledge required for the position includes: 

- Experience working on Linux and MacOS 

- Knowledge and ability to program in software languages (e.g., C/C++, Python)

- Ability to utilize modern programming practices and standards

- Sufficient mathematical exposure to effectively communicate with scientists and engineers concerning the nature of the calculations and algorithms being developed

- Knowledge and ability to utilize software development tools such as version control and IDE’s

We offer a challenging working environment in partnership with scientists, data systems operations teams, and an existing software development team, to bring Chandra data products and science analysis tools to the astronomical community at large. 

We will only accept applications online for this position. For complete information and online application procedures, please visit https://www.usajobs.gov/job/713882800

Keywords: software, developer, programmer, software engineer, science, astronomy, astrophysics, NASA, Chandra, CfA