Software Engineer, Adaptive Optics Instrument (Steward Observatory) (Multiple Positions) Posting Number req27567
Department Steward Observatory
Department Website Link https://astro.arizona.edu/
Location Tucson Campus
Address Tucson, AZ USA
Duties & Responsibilities - Implement spacecraft and observatory interfaces to enable high-speed communications between multiple pieces of the AO hardware system including: writing protocol libraries, controls interfaces, and test protocol libraries. This includes serial, network, and any other form of hardware communication.
- Develop applications for space- and ground-based control systems, including telemetry management, data visualizations and dashboards, and scripting engines.
- Develop embedded software for the control of various hardware components of the AO instrument systems including high-speed sensors, heaters, fast steering mirrors, etc. This includes ensuring that the hardware integrates into overall control logic of scientific operations.
- Contribute to architecture decisions for automated network management and support for missions with distributed computing architecture.
- Developed software must be robust enough to be deployed in remote mountain sites and space based missions.
- Develop framework to ensure consistency across project requirements, budgets and simulation configurations while producing automated system engineering metrics for tracking and reporting.
- Oversee new features for a mature, instrument codebase through the entire software development lifecycle.
- Communicate clearly with various scientists, mission operators, engineers, students, and other colleagues and stakeholders.
This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.
Minimum Qualifications - Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience is required including experience in developing software for the automated, remote operations of complex hardware systems, developing in C++, and experience in developing for a Linux operating system
Preferred Qualifications- MS/PhD in computer science or related technical fields.
- Experience implementing communications protocols, particularly for observatory applications.
- Experience working directly with hardware as part of embedded software development cycle.
- Experience with AO and/or astronomical observatory operations.
- Experience in Cl-frameworks and automated testing.
- Experience developing scientific Python libraries.
- Experience contributing to projects.
FLSA Exempt
Full Time/Part Time Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week 40
Job FTE 1.0
Work Calendar Fiscal
Job Category Research
Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay $99,901-$129,871
Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)
Grade 12
Compensation Guidance The
Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The
Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Career Stream and Level PC3
Job Family Research Engineering
Job Function Research
Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies 2
Target Hire Date Expected End Date Contact Information for Candidates Lauren Corlies
Software Manager
lcorlies@arizona.edu
Open Date 11/6/2026
Open Until Filled Yes
Documents Needed to Apply Resume and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant 
