Research Programmer/Analyst

Western University

$67K — $96K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering
  • Master's degree in a related field preferred, ideally focused on Machine Learning or Computer Vision
  • 3+ years of software development experience in an academic or research environment
  • Proficient in Python and experienced with Git
  • Familiarity with machine learning, computer vision techniques, and Linux-based systems

Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with the Principal Investigator to develop and maintain custom research software
  • Design and implement Python-based image processing and machine learning solutions
  • Maintain Linux computing environments for research purposes
  • Provide technical support to research teams and students
  • Apply best practices to ensure software robustness and reproducibility

Benefits

  • 10-month temporary full-time contract opportunity
  • Position is entirely grant funded
  • Encourages secondments from other organizations
  • Opportunity to work on high-impact research projects with Defence Research and Development Canada
  • Gain experience in a multidisciplinary research team environment
Full Job Description
Classification & Regular Hours

Hours per Week: 35

Salary Grade: 14

The base salary will be $67,680 - $96,590 per annum. Starting salary will be aligned with the successful candidate's experience, skills, and demonstrated qualifications.

Please note, this is a 10-month temporary full-time contract opportunity that is wholly grant funded.

Secondments are Welcome

Click here for more details on secondment opportunities.

Responsibilities

The Research Programmer/Analyst will work in close collaboration with the Principal Investigator to define, develop, test, analyze, and maintain custom research software and computational systems that support a multi-year surveillance of space program with Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC). The role is responsible for developing Python-based image processing, computer vision, machine learning, and data-pipeline solutions, maintaining Linux-based research computing environments, and providing ongoing support through troubleshooting, optimization, and software enhancements. In addition, the role supports research teams and student contributors through technical guidance and documentation, collaborates with Department of National Defence (DND) on contractual deliverables, and applies current best practices to ensure that research software is robust, reproducible, and aligned with funded DND research objectives.

Qualifications

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering
  • Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related field, ideally with a focus or specialization in Machine Learning or Computer Vision, preferred

Experience:
  • 3 years of experience developing, testing, and maintaining software in an academic, research or technical environment
  • Experience in machine learning, computer vision and AI-related techniques
  • Experience with Python programming and the use of Github
  • Experience working in Linux-based computing environments would be an asset

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • In-depth knowledge of programming languages including Python
  • Ability to build and maintain machine learning models and data-processing pipelines
  • Familiarity with PyTorch, TensorFlow, OpenCV, or other libraries for computer vision and image processing tasks
  • Proficiency with Git and collaborative development workflows (e.g., GitHub/GitLab)
  • Strong documentation and technical writing skills, including the ability to clearly explain methods and results
  • Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team
  • Familiarity with project management tools and resources with the ability to meet tight deadlines and perform well under pressure
  • Ability to adapt to change and master new technical and organization concepts and processes
  • Communication skills to describe technical concepts effectively to both novice and sophisticated users with the ability to write clear, concise and accurate procedural documentation
  • Ability to work in a manner that models best practices in confidentiality standards
  • Ability to provide solutions and ideas for improvement by using imaginative approaches where constructive thinking and innovation are required
  • Ability to follow formal business practices with high attention to detail
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development with a desire to take on new challenges and an ability and willingness to stay abreast of technological developments
  • Computer skills with the ability to creatively use and integrate technology to improve quality and productivity
  • Excellent troubleshooting ability along with hands-on expertise in technical support
  • Demonstrated ability take initiative, to work independently and follow through on work assignments
  • Problem solving skills with a sense of urgency in resolving issues and getting tasks completed
  • Proven ability and natural inclination to develop relationships by interacting with people in a professional, respectful and diplomatic manner
  • Ability to work independently and effectively as a member of the research team to achieve department goals


Please Note:

This position is an existing vacancy. This position is fully in-person, on-site. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

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