Software Engineer

The Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) Observatory at the University of Arizona (UofA) is looking for a talented and disciplined software engineering professional to join the LBT software team. Responsibilities include software development and maintenance, with occasional operations support, for multiple Adaptive Optics subsystems/instruments at the observatory. Software engineering professionals with knowledge of AO, Laser Guide Star (LGS) AO, and infrared instrumentation are especially encouraged to apply. Of particular interest is enhancements to existing operational tools, improved operator control interfaces, and automation of error handling and recovery functions. Serious consideration will be given to all qualified applicants with complex interdisciplinary engineering experience.

The LBT is the largest optical/infrared telescope in the world, with a number of unique, leading edge capabilities. In particular, the LBT’s unique binocular design and state-of-the-art adaptive optics technology provides diffraction-limited imaging capability with resolution of a 22.8 meter telescope.

The successful candidate will initially work with other assigned software team members to understand LBTO’s AO related instrumentation software environment. Primary responsibilities will focus on interface and functional software improvements between the Telescope Control System (TCS), the imaging spectrograph, and Ground Layer Adaptive Optics (GLAO) subsystems. As familiarity increases, development of automation and performance improvement capabilities are expected. Work will be coordinated with members of the interdisciplinary engineering and science operations teams. Subsequent tasking may include support for other complex projects, to include Telescope Control System enhancements, and/or coordination with partner institutions for support and maintenance/upgrade of other complex instrumentation.

Software development is accomplished in multiple languages. C/C++, Java, and Python are all required. The development environment is Linux.

While most work will occur at the LBT offices in Tucson, Arizona on the UofA campus, some work will also occur at the LBT site on Mt. Graham, Arizona at an elevation of 10,470 feet. The candidate will be required to provide periodic nighttime, weekend, and holiday operations software support and incident response.