Research Software Programmer

About Western

With an international reputation for success, Western ranks as one of Canada's top research-intensive universities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western also provides an exceptional employment experience, offering competitive salaries, a wide range of employment opportunities and one of Canada's most beautiful campuses.

About Us

The Department of Physics and Astronomy’s mission is to be a cornerstone of society’s development through physics and astronomy education of students, the creation and
dissemination of knowledge, innovative partnerships with industry, government, and other educational institutions in the global community.

The mission of Dr. Brown’s research is to understand the origin and evolution of primitive natural small solar system bodies (most notably comets and asteroids) through the measurement and modelling of their immediate decay products, namely meteoroids. His research also incorporates monitoring of near-Earth space for artificial objects, including active satellites and space debris as part of broader situational awareness of the space environment.
 

Responsibilities

The Research Software Programmer will collaborate with the Principal Investigator (PI) to support the space situational awareness program through software development, operational support, and coding. This role involves defining, developing, testing, analyzing, and evaluating software applications to ensure efficient data flow and integration for satellite camera operations. The Research Software Programmer will develop computer code for image analysis, providing software architecture development, ensure quality control of data by troubleshooting and fixing bugs, and implement new features and planning software enhancements. Additionally, the role will engage in both short- and long-term planning for programming services, focusing on technological and process improvements. The Research Software Programmer also involves providing support through software monitoring, applying the latest techniques and strategies, and making recommendations to enhance the planning and delivery of research-related services.

Qualifications

Education:

• Undergraduate Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Physics, Math, or relevant discipline

Experience:

• 5 years of scientific computing and software coding experience in an industrial or academic research environment
• Experience in planning, designing, and carrying out research projects
• Experience with systems administration, server maintenance and Unix commands

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Background in astronomical/space research field work would be an asset
• In-depth knowledge of, and expertise in, programming languages including Python, and with various databases
• Familiarity with various operating systems (such as Windows, Linux, Unix)  
• Familiarity with current internet technologies and with best practices in developing test cases and test plans
• Familiarity with project management tools and resources (e.g., version control systems) 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 goals
   

Western Values Diversity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.  If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone 519-661-2194.

Please Note:

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.