Role Overview
Support the advancement of space weather forecasting through scientific software development at the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). This position plays a key role in maintaining and enhancing the SWPC Testbed, a platform designed to evaluate and transition experimental models into operational use. You will work closely with scientists and engineers to build, test, and deploy tools that improve forecasting capabilities.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, refactor, and maintain code for processing space weather data and running predictive models
- Containerize scientific applications using Docker or Singularity to support reproducible workflows
- Help design and execute testbed experiments, integrating new observational and model data into forecasting systems
- Conduct data quality assessments and perform diagnostic analysis on model outputs
- Build visualization tools and user interfaces to improve access to forecast products
- Collaborate with researchers and operational staff to align development with real-world forecasting needs
- Document software, experiments, and results for internal and stakeholder review
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Space Physics, Geophysics, or a related field
- Minimum of 8 years of experience in web development
- Strong programming skills in Python, Fortran, or C/C++ within Linux environments
- Experience with version control (e.g., Git), scientific data formats (NetCDF, HDF5), and automation scripting
- Proven ability to analyze complex datasets and communicate findings clearly in writing and presentations
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with containerization tools and high-performance computing systems
- Familiarity with atmospheric or heliophysical modeling frameworks
- Understanding of operational forecasting environments and research-to-operations pipelines
- Background in collaborative scientific software projects or testbed operations
- Advanced degree preferred, though extensive experience may substitute
Technical Environment
Python, Fortran, C/C++, Linux, Docker, Singularity, Git, NetCDF, HDF5
Work Mode
This is a hybrid position based in Boulder, CO, with flexibility for remote work for qualified candidates. The role requires coordination with a distributed team and access to secure systems.
Benefits
- Comprehensive healthcare package covering medical, prescription, dental, and vision at no cost to the employee
- Personal Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
- Competitive salary, regularly benchmarked to industry and location
- 401(k) plan with company match and Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- Flexible spending accounts and disability insurance
- Tuition assistance and professional development reimbursement
- Employee assistance program (EAP)
- Recognition programs including spot bonuses and annual awards
- Internal learning platform and personalized career growth planning
Company Culture
Work in a collaborative, science-driven environment where expertise and innovation are valued. The organization emphasizes placing skilled professionals in roles where they can make meaningful contributions. Decision-making is streamlined to support agility and technical excellence.
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to fair and inclusive hiring practices. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws.
