Software Engineer I

NSF’s NOIRLab is the preeminent US national center for ground-based, nighttime optical and infrared astronomy. NOIRLab is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) which operates as a matrix organization, providing services across a range of programs: Gemini, Rubin, MSO (CTIO and KPNO), and CSDC; with facilities in three geographic locations: Arizona, Chile and Hawai’i. The mission of NOIRLab is to enable breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics by developing and operating state-of-the-art ground-based observatories and providing data products and services for a diverse and inclusive community. 

The Software Engineer I support on the configuration and development of software applications such as AODOcs, Docushare, Drupal and others.  Performs coding, debugging, testing and troubleshooting throughout the entire application development process.  

This position provides software and configuration support for developing, configuring, and maintaining NOIRLab’s document management tools and related softwares and platforms. It also consists of support for the migration and full deployment of a centralized Knowledge database for NOIRLab documented information. The hired candidate will also provide end-user training on using the NOIRLab documentation management tool (DMT), documenting SW scripts, work, and process flows. The hired candidate will report directly to the NOIRLab Documentation Manager.

This position is a one-year fixed term with the possibility of extension.

Essential Functions:

• Support the migration, configuration, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of one or more software applications or systems.
• Participate in troubleshooting activities to resolve issues with installed software, as needed.
• Collaborate with the NOIRLab Documentation Management Group and other stakeholders to document, clarify, and refine requirements for software systems related to documented information.
• Perform software configuration and scripting throughout the lifecycle, encompassing all phases: requirements gathering, design, documentation, development, testing, and deployment.
• Create and maintain clear, concise documentation, including technical guides and user-oriented materials, as required.
• Provide regular updates on the progress of assigned tasks, ensuring managers, team members, and other stakeholders are informed of issues that might impact deadlines.
• Stay current with industry advancements and best practices in software and documentation management.
• Manage the document approval cycle for new and updated documents, ensuring timely processing.
• Act as software administrator(s) for assigned systems, ensuring optimal functionality and access control.
• Update and maintain the Documentation Management (DM) webpage.
• Support documentation inventories, reviews, and audit activities as required.

Other Functions:

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

Experience

• Junior profile: 1-3 years of work-related experience.
• Experience with cloud-based solutions and or SaaS products
• Development skills: Ability to produce error-free computer code in various languages. Experience in Java technologies. Being proficient in at least one of the following is a plus: Python and Javascript.
• Experience working with APIs, JSON, or XML.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in software development, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.

Languages:

• Fluent in Spanish with Advanced English or vice-versa

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The work is mostly carried out in an office environment. Long periods of sitting and computer usage may be required.

Salaries for positions hired in Chile meet Chile national market rates and internal scales for AURA.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/benefits-by-location/

The position will remain open until it is filled. To be considered in the first round of reviews, please submit your application by January 28, 2025.

• Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname.
• Application documents that are not uploaded as part of the application may be sent to employment@aura-astronomy.org.
• Please enter 3 professional references in your application (references will only be contacted later in the recruitment process).

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) is a consortium of 49 US institutions and 3 international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories for the National Science Foundation and NASA. AURA’s role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. In addition, AURA is deeply committed to public and educational outreach, and to diversity throughout the astronomical and scientific workforce. AURA carries out its role through its astronomical facilities.  

As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor and is subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and/or 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 pursuant to these regulations. We encourage your participation in meeting these federal reporting requirements which are included for protection and to assist us in our recordkeeping and reporting. Your responses are kept strictly confidential.