OverviewThe successful candidate will play a critical role in modernizing the technical infrastructure supporting the Board's monthly statistical release. This position will work closely with economists, analysts, data engineers, and contractor personnel to transition legacy systems and processes from applications and databases to modern programming languages, data architectures, and automation frameworks. The role requires a strong combination of software development expertise, data engineering capabilities, analytical problem-solving, and a commitment to operational excellence in a highly visible production environment.
The work is performed onsite in Washington, DC without the option of remote or hybrid work.ResponsibilitiesApplication Development & Modernization- Design, develop, and maintain applications, scripts, and data processes supporting statistical release.
- Modernize legacy based code and infrastructure using contemporary technologies including Python, R, SQL-based platforms, and emerging data engineering tools.
- Develop scalable, maintainable, and reliable software solutions supporting production and research activities.
- Translate detailed system designs and business requirements into functional software components and automated workflows.
Systems Analysis & Software Engineering- Analyze complex system requirements and recommend effective technical solutions.
- Design software tools, reusable components, and subsystems supporting application modernization and long-term maintainability.
- Develop system documentation, architecture diagrams, process flows, and technical specifications.
- Utilize structured software development lifecycle (SDLC) methodologies, formal specifications, and accepted design practices.
Database & Data Management- Design, maintain, and optimize databases and data structures supporting production and analytical environments.
- Develop and maintain efficient data pipelines, validation routines, and reporting processes.
- Work with SQL databases, DuckDB, and other data management technologies to improve accessibility and performance.
- Ensure data integrity, reliability, and reproducibility throughout the modernization effort.
Testing, Quality Assurance & Configuration Management- Perform software testing, debugging, validation, and performance tuning.
- Review existing code and applications, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, reliability, and maintainability.
- Support software configuration management and version control best practices.
- Develop and maintain technical and end-user documentation.
Collaboration & Operational Support- Partner closely with stakeholders, IO Section staff, and external contractors to achieve modernization objectives.
- Coordinate with Board IT organizations and the Public Information Office to support file transfers, validation activities, and production release requirements.
- Support monthly production operations while ensuring continuity during technology transitions.
- Provide clear written and verbal communication regarding project progress, risks, and recommendations.
Innovation & Continuous Improvement- Evaluate and leverage emerging technologies, including AI-assisted development tools, where appropriate.
- Identify opportunities to automate repetitive processes and improve operational efficiency.
- Contribute to the adoption of modern software engineering and data management practices.
QualificationsRequired - Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Physics, Economics, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- Minimum of seven (7) years of experience as a Programmer Analyst, Applications Developer, Software Engineer, or related technical role.
- Requires U.S. citizenship.
- Demonstrated experience developing software solutions using established Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) methodologies.
- Strong programming experience with Python, R, or other modern programming languages.
- Experience analyzing and designing software systems and translating business requirements into technical solutions.
- Experience creating technical documentation, process flows, block diagrams, and logical design specifications.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating within a multidisciplinary team environment.
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality work in time-sensitive production environments.
Preferred Qualifications- Experience with FAME software, FAME databases, or economic/statistical production systems.
- Experience with SQL databases, DuckDB, or modern data warehouse technologies.
- Knowledge of statistical data processing and economic research environments.
- Experience supporting modernization or legacy system migration initiatives.
- Familiarity with version control systems, automated testing frameworks, and CI/CD practices.
- Experience leveraging AI-assisted development tools and modern software engineering productivity platforms.
Salary: $133,000 - $139,000Additional benefits include: - Paid Time Off & Holiday Pay
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Disability, Life Insurance, and AD&D
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Pre-Tax 401K and/or After-Tax Roth IRA (with employer matching contribution)
- Tuition and Technical Training Reimbursement
- Exercise Reimbursement
- Computer Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program
Physical DemandsThe 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.
- Regularly required to sit, stand, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, keyboard, telephone, and standard office equipment.
- Specific vision abilities required include close vision for computer-based work.
- Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.
- Fine hand manipulation and extended keyboard usage required.
Work EnvironmentThe work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
- Exposure to general office conditions while conducting office duties.
- Moderate noise environment typical of a business office.
- Ability to work in a confined office environment.
- Ability to sit at a computer terminal for extended periods of time.
