Employment at Keck – Scientific Programmer

W. M. Keck Observatory Position Announcement…

The W. M. Keck Observatory (WMKO) has an immediate opening for a software engineer to support scientific programming needs for the Keck Observatory Archive (KOA). The successful candidate will work with the Keck Archive Scientist and other members of the KOA team and software group on all aspects of KOA software development: defining requirements, developing algorithms, writing applications, testing and implementing software, preparing documentation, and supporting software and users. Special attention will be paid to applicants with strong skills and experience in astronomical data reduction, especially spectroscopy.

The observatory operates two of the largest and most scientifically productive optical/infrared telescopes in the world. The twin 10-meter telescopes are located amidst several other world class observatories on the summit of Mauna Kea, at 13,796 feet above sea level on the Big Island of Hawaii, one of the premier sites for astronomy. The successful candidate will join a skilled and deeply committed team of technical professionals who enable exciting and important astronomical discoveries.

Minimum qualifications for this position include a Bachelor’s degree in computer or physical sciences, or engineering, and at least 5 years of programming experience. Required are a good knowledge of database design, a high level of competency in SQL, PHP, C and C++ or JAVA programming; good knowledge of IDL, IRAF, Matlab or Python; experience in a Unix environment, experience developing web enabled database applications, good communication skills, good applied mathematical/statistical skills and the ability to work as part of a team. Desirable skills include an advanced degree, knowledge of astronomical data archive, familiarity with FITS data format, astronomical CCD image data, and astronomical data manipulation software.

This position requires you to submit your resume on-line at: http://keckobservatory.iapplicants.com/ViewJob-324999.html with your cover letter that states why you are uniquely qualified for the position.

Additional information about WMKO and this position may be found on our web site at www.keckobservatory.org