Software Engineer II

Description Join us as our newest Software Engineer II and make code that even our telescopes admire! Are you someone who genuinely enjoys solving problems—even the weird ones that start with "so… this only happens on Tuesdays?" Do you ask good questions, share ideas freely, and collaborate without ego? Do you communicate clearly, write code thoughtfully, and aren't afraid to admit when you don't know something? Do you appreciate a workplace where the vibe is friendly, the work is interesting, and humor is very welcome? If so, apply to be our newest Software Engineer II! What the

Software Engineer II Does:

The Software Engineer II spends their days turning ideas into clean, reliable, scalable software—preferably without summoning any new and exciting bugs. They work with friendly humans across multiple engineering disciplines to transform napkin sketches and ambitious brainstorms into real, working features. They review code (theirs and others') in a way that is constructive, kind, and ideally free of passive-aggressive comments. They have room to stretch into new areas, experiment with tools they're curious about, and grow their technical and professional chops along the way. They may also use previous robotics or control systems experiences to understand what design tradeoffs that may exist when updating our software systems implemented in EPICS (Experimental Physics and Industrial Control System). Tapping into any knowledge or previous experiences with motors and electric drives, embedded systems, or DFx would also help out greatly. In this role the Software Engineer II genuinely enjoys solving problems—even the weird ones that start with "so… this only happens on Tuesdays." They ask good questions, share ideas freely, and collaborate without ego. On a daily basis they communicate clearly, write code thoughtfully, and aren't afraid to admit when you don't know something. They appreciate a workplace where the vibe is friendly, the work is interesting, and humor is very welcome. Why Choose W. M.

Keck Observatory:

Competitive starting salary ranging from $94,966 to $114,760. Generous benefits package, including 4 weeks of annual paid vacation. A robust 8% 403(b) employer contribution (with a 4% employee contribution). Tuition assistance for dependent children grades K-12 attending private school on Hawai'i Island. Comprehensive, employer provided health insurance. We offer relocation support for candidates moving from outside the area. Be a part of a dedicated team working on the frontiers of astronomy.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor of Science or equivalent in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or other relevant engineering or science field. 3 years of experience in developing code used for observing tools, data tools, and/or general software development. Broad knowledge of modern software engineering practices, especially in areas of re-use and testability. Creating software applications with Python. Creating software applications with hardware interfaces Change control, build, and release management processes. Good knowledge of database design. TCP/IP networking Fundamental operating system administration Competency in C/C++, Python, databases Competency in Unix/Linux shell scripting. Competency with communication protocols (RS-232/485/422, SPI, I2C) User interface development with Java, Qt, React, or other GUI toolkits. Competency using O-O paradigm and design patterns. About W. M. Keck Observatory At the W. M. Keck Observatory, we approach our work with wonder about the mysteries of the universe and with deep respect and care for Maunakea - a mountain revered in Hawaiʻi and unlike any other in the world. For more than three decades, astronomers using Keck Observatory's twin 10-meter telescopes have vastly expanded our understanding of the cosmos through astonishing findings about our solar system, exoplanets, supermassive black holes, the evolution of the universe, and more. We are dedicated to the values of service and stewardship, while advancing the frontiers of astronomy, sharing our discoveries, and inspiring the imagination of all.