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Observatory Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

aui

Software Engineer Group Lead, Online

Green Bank, WV · On-site +1

The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. At NRAO, we are recruiting a full-time Software Engineering manager, who will directly supervise ...

aui

Software Engineer Group Lead, Online

Socorro, NM · On-site +1

The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. At NRAO, we are recruiting a full-time Software Engineering manager, who will directly supervise ...

NCSL International

Scientist (Open Rank)

Socorro, NM · On-site

$85K - $138K/yr

Perform calibration and testing of existing Observatory instruments. Track and characterize instrument performance and work with software and hardware engineers, and maintenance groups to identify ...

aui

Scientist (Open Rank)

Socorro, NM · On-site

$85K - $138K/yr

Track and characterize instrument performance and work with software and hardware engineers, and maintenance groups to identify and solve problems. * Support the Observatory users in relevant areas.

aui

Scientist (Open Rank)

Socorro, NM · On-site

$85K - $138K/yr

Track and characterize instrument performance and work with software and hardware engineers, and maintenance groups to identify and solve problems. * Support the Observatory users in relevant areas.

aui

Head of Software Engineering

Charlottesville, VA · On-site +1

$251K/yr

The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. The NRAO is seeking an experienced and collaborative Head of Software Engineering (Software ...

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Observatory Software Engineer information

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$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do observatory software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for observatory software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an observatory software engineer?

Observatory Software Engineers are specialized software professionals who design, develop, and maintain the software systems that control and operate astronomical observatories and their instruments. Their work ensures that telescopes, detectors, and data acquisition systems run efficiently and reliably. They often collaborate with astronomers, engineers, and data scientists to implement software solutions that enable scientific research and data analysis. This role requires expertise in programming, systems integration, and a solid understanding of both hardware and the scientific objectives of observatories.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an observatory software engineer?

To thrive as an Observatory Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (commonly in Python, C++, or Java), experience with software development lifecycles, and a background in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with telescope control systems, astronomical data processing tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required, and certifications in software engineering can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this collaborative and highly technical environment. These skills ensure the reliable development and maintenance of mission-critical software that enables accurate data collection and analysis for scientific discovery.

How does an observatory software engineer typically collaborate with scientists and telescope operators during major observation campaigns?

Observatory Software Engineers often work closely with astronomers and telescope operators to ensure that data acquisition and analysis systems function smoothly during observation campaigns. This involves real-time troubleshooting, adapting software tools to meet evolving scientific needs, and sometimes developing quick patches or enhancements based on immediate feedback. Regular communication and participation in planning meetings help engineers anticipate potential challenges and maintain system reliability. Such collaboration not only supports scientific goals but also fosters a dynamic team environment where technical and scientific expertise intersect.

What are popular job titles related to Observatory Software Engineer jobs?

For Observatory Software Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Observatory Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer

Maui, HI

National Solar Observatory
201 - 500 employees
Learn more about National Solar Observatoryexternal

$125K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

The NSF Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST), operated by the National Solar Observatory (NSO), is the world’s largest and most advanced solar telescope, designed to help answer fundamental questions about our Sun and its complex magnetic fields. DKIST, which completed construction and began operations in November 2021 on the summit of Haleakala, Maui, Hawaii is a major program within the NSO. The NSO, an NSF national research and development center dedicated to solar science, is managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA). AURA, a consortium of 49 U.S. institutions and 3 international affiliates, operates world-class astronomical observatories. Its role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that drive innovative astronomical research.

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to provide technical leadership and hands-on development for our High-Level Software (HLS) systems supporting advanced telescope and instrumentation platforms. This role will solve complex technical challenges, guide engineers and partners, and contribute directly to system design, development, and operations at the DKIST facility.

You will play a key role in delivering robust, scalable software systems that support scientific discovery, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams across engineering and operations.

Essential Functions
Technical Leadership & Development
  • Design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain high-level software systems for telescope and instrument applications
  • Lead complex engineering efforts and provide technical direction to team members and collaborators
  • Architect and implement scalable, multi-threaded, distributed systems
  • Support system integration across observatory platforms
Collaboration & Execution
  • Partner with engineering teams, operations staff, subcontractors, and stakeholders to deliver solutions
  • Plan and execute work aligned with technical, schedule, and budget requirements
  • Identify and resolve complex problems with minimal direction
  • Recommend and implement improvements to systems and processes
Documentation & Quality
  • Maintain comprehensive documentation (design specs, APIs, test plans, user guides)
  • Ensure high-quality software delivery through testing and best practices
  • Support CI/CD pipelines and automated testing frameworks
Operations Support
  • Provide software support for summit and science operations as needed
  • Participate in system upgrades and new initiatives
Compliance & Safety
  • Adhere to safety standards and organizational policies
  • Ensure compliance with government award requirements (if applicable)
  • Promote a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative work environment
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 10+ years of software development experience, including:
    • 5+ years with Java (including Swing)
    • Experience building multi-threaded, distributed systems
    • At least 1 year of Python
  • Experience with Linux-based development environments
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work from high-level objectives
  • Experience with databases (PostgreSQL or similar)
  • Familiarity with Agile development practices
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

This position involves access to technical data that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Pursuant to these regulations, only U.S. persons (as defined in the regulations) are eligible for access to the controlled technical data. A "U.S. person" includes a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or person granted asylum or refugee status. Applicants must be eligible to access export-controlled information as defined by U.S. law.

Preferences
  • Experience in scientific, engineering, or large-scale technical environments
  • Knowledge of distributed control systems or observatory/telescope systems
  • Experience with:
    • Middleware frameworks (e.g., EPICS, TANGO, DDS, ICE)
    • High-throughput data systems (GB/s scale)
    • CI/CD pipelines and automated testing
    • Cloud platforms (AWS, GCP)
    • Container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
  • Familiarity with motion control systems (e.g., Beckhoff, Omron, Delta Tau)
  • Experience managing vendors or technical contractors
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • Primarily office-based with extended computer use
  • Occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs)
  • Periodic work at high-elevation observatory site (~10,000 ft)
  • Frequent communication and collaboration with team members

Salary Range: $125,000 - $167,000 per year. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.

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 Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources 

Apply by July 5, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName DocName.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.

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