ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Scientific Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Scientific Programmer

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Scientific Programmer Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536918 Work type: Research Faculty Senior management: Vice President for Research Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute Location:

SiloSmashers

Programmer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. * 2-4 years of professional software development experience. * Familiarity with DevSecOps environments and Agile practices.

SiloSmashers

Programmer

Arlington, VA

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. * 2-4 years of professional software development experience. * Familiarity with DevSecOps environments and Agile practices.

SiloSmashers

Programmer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. * 2-4 years of professional software development experience. * Familiarity with DevSecOps environments and Agile practices.

Teknowleap, Inc

PROGRAMMER/ANALYST

Sterling, VA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Engineering or a closely related field with 2 years of experience in the job offered or as a Software Engineer; Experience before or after earning the degree ...

Cymertek

HPC Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

... Scientific Programmer, Computational Software Developer, Performance Tuning Specialist, GPU Computing Engineer, Numerical Computing Engineer, HPC Architect, Scalable Systems Engineer, Data-Intensive ...

Cymertek

HPC Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

... Scientific Programmer, Computational Software Developer, Performance Tuning Specialist, GPU Computing Engineer, Numerical Computing Engineer, HPC Architect, Scalable Systems Engineer, Data-Intensive ...

Cymertek

HPC Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

... Scientific Programmer, Computational Software Developer, Performance Tuning Specialist, GPU Computing Engineer, Numerical Computing Engineer, HPC Architect, Scalable Systems Engineer, Data-Intensive ...

ATAC

Aviation Programmer Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

Required attributes include : * BS degree in Mathematics, Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or related fields, and 3 or more years of relevant experience * Strong proficiency in Python for ...

Deloitte

Senior AI Engineer - SFL Scientific

Mclean, VA · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

SFL Scientific, a Deloitte Business, is looking to add a Senior AI Engineer to their vibrant environment. SFL Scientific is part of our broader Strategy Offering within the Strategy & Transactions ...

Envisioneering

Space Scientist-Engineer

Arlington, VA

$175K - $210K/yr

... encourage scientific research in recognition of its paramount importance as related to the ... Recent experience providing Systems Engineering, Technical Assistance, and programmatic support of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScientific Programmer JobsScientific Programmer Jobs in Virginia

Scientific Programmer information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$39

$71

How much do scientific programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific programmer in Virginia is $39.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $56.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, or aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Scientific Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scientific Programmer, you need a solid background in computer science, mathematics, or a related field, along with strong programming skills in languages like Python, C++, or R. Familiarity with scientific computing libraries (such as NumPy, SciPy), data analysis tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required, and experience with high-performance computing or parallel processing is a plus. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are key soft skills that distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable, efficient code to support complex scientific research and for collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Can I work at NASA being a programmer?

Scientific programmers can work at NASA by developing software for mission operations, data analysis, or simulations. They typically need strong programming skills in languages like C++, Python, or Fortran, along with a background in science or engineering. Security clearances and specialized knowledge of aerospace systems are often required for certain roles.

What is the difference between Scientific Programmer vs Data Analyst?

AspectScientific ProgrammerData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science, Physics, or related fields; programming skillsBachelor's or higher in Statistics, Data Science, or related fields; analytical skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, scientific institutions, academia, industry R&DBusiness, finance, healthcare, marketing sectors
Employer & Industry UsageResearch organizations, universities, scientific companiesCorporations, consulting firms, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding technical roles in scientific computingAnalyzing data to inform decisions

Scientific Programmers focus on developing software and algorithms for scientific research, often working with complex simulations and data modeling. Data Analysts interpret data sets to generate insights and support decision-making. While both roles require strong programming skills and analytical thinking, Scientific Programmers are more involved in software development for scientific purposes, whereas Data Analysts focus on data interpretation and reporting.

What are scientific programmers?

Scientific programmers are professionals who develop, implement, and optimize software solutions for scientific research and data analysis. They work closely with scientists and researchers to translate complex scientific problems into computational algorithms, scripts, and tools. Their work often involves programming in languages like Python, C++, or R, and may include tasks such as data processing, simulation, modeling, and visualization. Scientific programmers play a crucial role in advancing research by making scientific computations more efficient and reproducible.

Is a programmer a scientist?

A scientific programmer is a professional who applies programming skills to scientific research, data analysis, and modeling. While they use scientific methods and often work closely with scientists, they are primarily skilled in coding and computational techniques rather than conducting original scientific research. Their role bridges programming and scientific inquiry, often requiring knowledge of specific scientific domains and tools like MATLAB, Python, or R.

What Does a Scientific Programmer Do?

The duties of a scientific programmer are to design a variety of tools for researchers to perform statistical and mathematical modeling on large datasets. They often work within a specific framework or software, and their responsibilities are to script tools that make it easier for scientists to use the programs or models. Their duties may include designing a new user interface or creating shell scripts for the UNIX or Linux operating systems. A scientific programmer also conducts code review and quality assurance tasks to ensure that programs are ready to be used. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in computer science, bioinformatics, or computational biology. If you want to specialize in a particular discipline, you may need additional experience or advanced qualifications.

What tech jobs pay 400,000 a year?

Scientific programmers working in high-level research, data science, or specialized software development can reach salaries of $400,000 or more, especially with advanced skills in machine learning, large-scale computing, or domain-specific expertise. Such roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and proficiency with programming languages like Python, C++, or Fortran, as well as familiarity with high-performance computing environments.

How does a Scientific Programmer typically collaborate with researchers and other technical staff on projects?

Scientific Programmers often work closely with research scientists, data analysts, and IT teams to develop and optimize software tools for scientific studies. They participate in project meetings to understand research goals, translate scientific requirements into code, and troubleshoot issues that arise in computational workflows. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Scientific Programmers must ensure their solutions align with both technical standards and the scientific objectives of the research team.
More about Scientific Programmer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Scientific Programmer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Scientific Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Scientific Programmer jobs in Virginia? For Scientific Programmer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scientific Programmer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Scientific Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Scientific Programmer jobs in VA? For Scientific Programmer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Scientific Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scientific Programmer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,207 per year, or $39.5 per hour.
Scientific Programmer

Scientific Programmer

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Roanoke, VA • On-site

$73K - $78K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Scientific Programmer
Job no: 536918
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: Vice President for Research
Department: Fralin Biomedical Res. Institute
Location: Roanoke, Virginia
Categories: Information Systems / Technology, Research / Scientific
Job Description
The Center for Human Neuroscience Research in the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC seeks a person to manage and further develop the lab's neural network models for estimating neuromodulator concentrations from in vivo neurochemical recordings. The successful candidate should have experience with modern programming tools, machine learning, and, in particular, neural networks. This person will work under the direction of Dr. Read Montague, will maintain and implement the lab's current neural network models, and will participate with other lab members in further developing models for estimating neuromodulator concentrations. The successful candidate will also help with implementing machine learning approaches to other problems arising in the lab.
Required Qualifications
Demonstrated programming experience.
Master's degree in a quantitative discipline (mathematics, computer science, engineering, physics) or equivalent education, training or experience.
Demonstrated experience in machine learning and neural networks.
Ability to work independently on multiple deadlines with competing deadlines.
Ability to work effectively with other team members.
Preferred Qualifications
Programming experience in Python, R, Matlab.
Experience using TensorFlow, Keras, and PyTorch.
Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
$73,000-$78,000, commensurate with experience
Hours per week
40+
Review Date
7/20/2026
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Brittany Shelton at sheltb@vtc.vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: July 7, 2026
Applications close:
Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What Virginia Tech employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Virginia Tech logo

About Virginia Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Virginia Tech Jobs

Apply