Scientific Programmer

Scientific ProgrammerBaltimore, MarylandDLH delivers improved health and national security readiness solutions for federal programs through science research and development, systems engineering and integration, and digital transformation. Our experts in public health, performance evaluation, and health operations solve the complex problems faced by civilian and military customers alike by leveraging advanced tools – including digital transformation, artificial intelligence, data analytics, cloud enablement, modeling, and simulation, and more. DLH is dedicated to the idea that "Your Mission is Our Passion" and brings a unique combination of government sector experience, proven methodology, and unwavering commitment to innovation to improve the lives of millions.The Scientific Programmer supports the National Institute on Aging (NIA) IT Division by developing custom applications, systems, and unique technologies that are critical in the performance of scientific research. Operating within a DevSecOps-based Agile development methodology, the Scientific Programmer works closely with clinicians, research technicians, scientists, and vendors to deliver robust, secure, and compliant software solutions that support clinical data collection, management, and integration across NIA IRP sites.This position requires deep expertise in clinical data standards, including HL7, DICOM, and PACS protocols, as well as proficiency across multiple database platforms and programming languages. The Scientific Programmer plays a critical role in ensuring that clinical IT systems support the continuity, integrity, and security of NIA's research operations.ResponsibilitiesDesign, code, debug, and implement stand-alone, web-based, and multi-tier computer applications for the benefit of the Intramural Research Program (IRP), NIAUtilize HTML/CSS/JavaScript to create functional, responsive, and accessible application frontendsUtilize Perl, PHP, and variant (PostgreSQL and MySQL) backing SQL servers to create robust application backendsUtilize HL7, DICOM, and PACS protocols in the development and support of clinical applications and systemsUtilize source code control tools (Git) and related technologies to aid in the development and documentation of applications over timeUse multiple vendor and open-source database engines including Oracle, Postgres, MySQL, and Microsoft SQL ServerDevSecOps and Requirements ManagementPerform all development activities within a DevSecOps-based methodology with a focus on iterative deployment cycles of limited functionalityEstablish a requirements engineering process that ensures all IT and non-IT requirements are captured, managed, and verified in accordance with industry standards and best practicesFollow secure coding best practice requirements as directed by United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) specified standards and the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) to limit system software vulnerability exploitsScientific and Clinical IT SupportSupport the diverse and intensive needs of the NIA IRP NCTS division and all laboratory programs and core facilities throughout NIALearn, document, and support the technical functions of all NIA IRP laboratoriesInventory and document all existing scientific computation devicesAssist scientists and vendors in the initial deployment, configuration, and ongoing support of existing scientific computation devicesSupport the configuration of scientific applications running on scientific computation devicesAssist clinicians, technicians, and vendors in the initial deployment, configuration, and ongoing support of existing clinical IT systemsIndependent Development and MaintenanceInteract with application end users to plan, build, and maintain applicationsProvide independent maintenance of accomplished programs used by IRPProvide independent design of new projects including writing and maintaining software applications as required by IRPManage and maintain configuration management tools (Puppet) to support the networked infrastructure at IRP, promoting security best practices and applicable government standards and policiesOrganize periodic trainings and strategic planning meetings amongst developer colleagues to improve efficiency and promote collaboration inside IRPDocumentationDevelop and maintain all software and data documentation at the conclusion of each software development cycle and by end of task orderWrite technical reports to describe system operating characteristicsWorking ConditionsWorks closely with clinical research coordinators, investigators, IT staff, and administrative teamsSupports a mission-driven environment focused on advancing aging and biomedical researchParticipates in cross-functional initiatives to enhance research operations and data qualityQualificationsBachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Health Information, or related field (or equivalent experience)Minimum 3+ years of experience in clinical application programming or health IT systems developmentDemonstrated experience designing, coding, debugging, and implementing stand-alone, web-based, and multi-tier applicationsProficiency with clinical data standards and protocols, specifically HL7, DICOM, and PACSExperience developing application frontends using HTML, CSS, and JavaScriptExperience developing application backends using Perl, PHP, or Ruby with variant PostgreSQL and MySQL backing SQL serversProficiency with multiple vendor and open-source database engines including Oracle, Postgres, MySQL, and Microsoft SQL ServerProficiency with source code control tools, specifically GitExperience with configuration management tools, specifically PuppetExperience working within a DevSecOps-based Agile software development methodologyFamiliarity with secure coding standards including OWASP and US-CERT guidelinesExperience in the support of laboratory sciences and familiarity with Windows, Mac OS, Linux (multiple distributions), Unix, and other real-time and mobile operating systemsIntermediate programming and scripting skills and some familiarity with High Performance Computing (HPC) environmentsStrong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact with application end users to plan, build, and maintain applicationsMust be able to obtain a Public Trust clearancePreferred QualificationsExperience supporting clinical research IT systems within a federal government, NIH, or academic medical research environmentAgile or DevSecOps certification (e.g., SAFe, Scrum, or equivalent)Data management skills and experience with hosting data repositoriesExperience designing and developing public web interfaces to scientific databanks for access by researchers and external organizationsStrong scripting skills (e.g., Python, PowerShell, Bash)Familiarity with FISMA, NIST SP 800-53, and federal information security and privacy requirements applicable to clinical research systemsExperience with FedRAMP-authorized cloud platforms and NIH STRIDES initiative servicesBasic Compensation: $115,000 - $120,000 yearly salaryThe salary range listed reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this role at the time of posting. The final offer may vary based on skills, experience, geographic location, market conditions, and internal equity. Additional compensation may include performance incentives and program-specific awards. We do not use salary history to determine compensation, in line with applicable law.DLH Corp offers our employees an excellent benefits package, including Personal Time Off (PTO), medical, dental, vision, supplemental life with AD&D, disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, and more. We want our employees to save for their future; therefore, we offer a 401(k) Retirement Plan, which includes a matching component. DLH is dedicated to your career development, providing training to help drive success, with access to our best-in-class e-learning suite for formal and informal learning, professional and technical certification preparation, and education assistance at accredited institutions.DLH Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. DLH will provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities and disabled Veterans who need assistance to apply.DLH is committed to maintaining a fair and authentic interview process