Software Engineer II - Java Application Developer

Support NASA missions! The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is a multi-mission science and flight operations center for NASA’s flagship observatories on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland. Learn more about our missions.

STScI is seeking a Software Engineer II - Java Application Developer with 5-8 years of experience developing complex, object-oriented applications, to join the Astronomer’s Proposal Tool (APT) development team. In this role, you are working to develop, maintain, and support the APT, a Java application used by astronomers worldwide and by STScI operations staff to develop, plan, and implement science programs for our observatories.  There will be an opportunity to participate in a technology refresh of APT to ensure its long-term capability and relevance supporting current and future observatories.  Your work as a developer will play a critical role in the success and scientific productivity of NASA missions that continue to reshape our understanding of the universe. This position can support hybrid work. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV). U.S. citizen or permanent resident is required for this position.

The salary range for this position is between $90,000 - $115,000. Substitution of additional relevant education and/or experience for stated qualifications may be considered. Compensation is commensurate with education, skills and experience. 

Responsibilities include:

In this position, in collaboration with the APT team, you will:

• Design, develop, and support APT, a large (400,000 LoC) desktop Java application
• Collaborate in a small Agile team setting
• Work independently
• Work with stakeholders to gather and develop requirements driven by science and engineering concerns
• Adapt to changing requirements
• Organize multiple projects and estimate work

Qualifications:

A BS/BA in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related scientific or technical field and 5 – 8 years of software development experience, including:

• Substantial experience developing complex, object-oriented applications in Java or a similar language
• Excellent software design skills
• Excellent problem solving and debugging skills
• Good testing practices
• Good version control practices
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• A helpful and collaborative team-player mentality
• A commitment to, and appreciation of, diversity of people, backgrounds, and ideas

Desirable, but not required:

• Client/server development
• Agile development practices
• Java web development frameworks

Our excellent benefits include:

• Employer retirement contribution – direct STScI contribution of 10% of your salary from your first day
• 12 days sick leave, 24 days vacation, and 10 paid holidays
• Flexible work schedule with work/life balance
• Comprehensive medical/dental/vision/prescription plans, and more!

TO APPLY: Please upload both a resume and a one-page cover letter.  Your cover letter should describe the skills and experiences you bring to this position, why you are a good fit for this role at STScI, and how this position aligns with your career goals. Applications received by Tuesday, January 30, 2024 will receive full consideration. Applications received after this date will be considered until the position is filled.

 Direct link: Software Engineer II - Java Application Developer

Explore all career opportunities at www.stsci.edu/opportunities

STScI offers a flexible and welcoming workspace for all. STScI embraces the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in creating a first-rate community. We strongly encourage women, ethnic minorities, veterans, and disabled individuals to apply for these opportunities. Veterans, disabled individuals, or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu EOE/AA/M/F/D/V.

As a leader in the astronomical community, AURA is committed to diversity and inclusion. AURA develops and supports programs that advance our organizational commitment to diversity, broaden participation, and encourage the advancement of diversity throughout the workforce www.aura-astronomy.org/diversity.asp

As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA and all of the centers do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws. The statements below, as well as the requests for self-identification, are required under these regulations. We encourage your participation in meeting these federal reporting requirements for protection and assisting us in our record-keeping and reporting. Your responses are kept strictly confidential.

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