Senior Systems Engineer and Software Architect (Tucson)

NSF NOIRLab is seeking an experienced Senior Software Systems Architect to support the development of the NOIRLab Program Platform (NPP), a cross-program platform supporting end-to-end scientific workflows across Gemini, Rubin, GMT, and CSDC. The role involves working with scientists, software engineers, systems engineers, and program stakeholders to define the platform architecture, requirements framework, integration strategy, and verification approach for phased development, deployment, and long-term operations.

Essential Functions

• Define and evolve the NPP software architecture and integration strategy.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop use cases, requirements, and Concept of Operations (ConOps).
• Establish and maintain requirements traceability from stakeholder needs through implementation and verification.
• Define APIs, interface specifications, and Interface Control Documents (ICDs).
• Support integration of existing NOIRLab systems, commercial products, and open-source solutions.
• Develop verification and validation frameworks, including acceptance criteria and verification methods.
• Contribute to system integration planning, test strategy, and quality planning activities.
• Support prototyping and testbed efforts using Gemini and Rubin as pathfinder programs.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years of experience in software architecture, systems engineering, platform engineering, or a related technical leadership role.
• Experience designing and evolving large-scale distributed software systems.
• Strong software development background in Python, Java, C++, or similar object-oriented languages.
• Experience with requirements analysis, requirements traceability, and interface definition.
• Experience developing or evaluating verification and validation approaches for complex software systems.
• Experience with API and service design using REST, GraphQL, or similar technologies.
• Knowledge of distributed, containerized, service-oriented, event-driven, and workflow-based architectures.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate across distributed teams and multiple stakeholder groups.

Preferred

• Experience in scientific computing, observatory operations, aerospace, research institutions, national laboratories, or similar complex technical environments.
• Experience supporting end-to-end platforms or systems-of-systems architectures.
• Experience developing ICDs, architecture baselines, verification matrices, or ConOps documentation.
• Experience integrating legacy systems and third-party solutions into modern platforms.
• Familiarity with CI/CD, release management, software lifecycle governance, and Agile delivery practices.
• Experience with Kubernetes and container orchestration technologies.
• Experience supporting prototypes, pilot deployments, or operational testbeds.
• Experience using AI-assisted software development tools and practices.

Salary Range: $128,442 – $174,000 per year. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications, experience, and job location.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, and a very attractive work environment.

This position will remain open until it is filled.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.