Scientific Full Stack Developer

About the role

Lynker, a Federal Government Contractor, is seeking a full-time Senior Full Stack Developer to support a long-term contract with the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). Space Weather refers to variations in the space environment between the sun and Earth that can affect technologies in space and on Earth. Space weather is primarily driven by solar storm phenomena—including coronal mass ejections, solar flares, solar particle events, and solar wind—that can disrupt communications, satellite and airline operations, navigation and surveying systems, and electric power grids across large geographic regions. The Senior Full Stack Developer will implement intuitive, accessible, and responsive web interfaces that communicate critical space weather information, contributing to the modernization of SWPC's web presence and Testbed applications.

This position is ideal for individuals who want to work closely with Web and Testbed teams, as well as other developers in the Technology Division, to translate scientific and operational requirements into clean, user-centered designs and support front-end implementation using contemporary web technologies.

Responsibilities

• Design user-friendly, responsive interfaces for SWPC’s web applications and product delivery systems.
• Assist in the development of wireframes, mockups, and prototypes based on stakeholder input and usability goals.
• Modernize legacy applications using modern JavaScript frameworks such as Vue, React, and Svelte.
• Build user-friendly, data-rich interfaces with strong attention to detail and user experience.
• Integrate generative AI and machine learning features to support client-facing scheduling and decision-making tools.
• Design and modernize back-end systems using Java, Python, and Node.js.
• Develop RESTful APIs using Python and the Django framework.
• Work with relational and NoSQL databases including Microsoft SQL Server, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB.
• Build and maintain ETL pipelines and services using Prefect.
• Deploy applications to dedicated servers using Docker.
• Manage and evolve software architecture to improve efficiency, scalability, and performance.
• Organize and manage new projects, ensuring scope, budget, and deadlines are met throughout the project lifecycle.
• Lead a team of developers, providing technical direction and code/QA review.
• Meet regularly with clients and stakeholders to maintain open communication and align on project goals.
• Assess stakeholder needs and translate them into actionable requirements using Agile/Scrum methodology.
• Test and QA other developers' work as part of the standard development process.
• Write automated test scripts using Selenium and Playwright to validate new deployments and prevent regressions.
• Contribute to debugging and continuous improvement of application architecture.
• Design and build demo applications and performance-based campaigns to showcase product capabilities.

Requirements

• At least a Master’s degree in atmospheric science, space physics, geophysics, engineering, computer science, graphic design, human-computer interaction, or mathematics from an accredited institution.
• At least 8 years of experience in related areas.
• Proven experience as a Full-Stack Developer, with prior experience in a senior or lead capacity.
• Strong proficiency in JavaScript frameworks (Vue, React, Svelte).
• Solid back-end development experience with Java, Python, and Node.js (Django experience a plus).
• Experience with SQL and NoSQL databases (Microsoft SQL Server, PostgreSQL, MongoDB).
• Hands-on experience with Docker for deployment.
• Experience with automated testing tools such as Selenium and Playwright.
• Familiarity with ETL processes and tools such as Prefect.
• Experience integrating AI/ML features into production applications.
• Strong project management skills, with Agile/Scrum experience.
• Excellent client-facing communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor a development team.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen or Green Card Holder to qualify (U.S. citizens must live in the U.S. for 3-5 years prior to application).

Desired Skills

• Exposure to Drupal or similar CMS platforms, especially in theming or content structuring.
• Basic understanding of user research methods such as surveys, user interviews, or A/B testing.
• Interest or coursework in space science, atmospheric physics, or scientific visualization.
• Familiarity with web API integration and visualizing scientific data in browser-based environments.
• Experience with Git or other version control systems.
• Ability to communicate design intent and usability rationale effectively to technical and non-technical audiences.

About Lynker

Lynker is a growing, employee-owned small business specializing in professional, scientific, and technical services. Our team combines scientific expertise with mature, results-driven processes and tools to achieve technically sound, cost-effective solutions in hydrology/water sciences, geospatial analysis, information technology, resource management, conservation, and business process improvement. We focus on putting the right people in the right place to be effective, fostering a culture of exceptionally skilled professionals who embrace sound science and creative solutions.

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare for the employee at no monthly cost (covers medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision).
• Personal Time Off (PTO) Policy plus paid holidays.
• Highly competitive compensation plan regularly calibrated against industry and location benchmarks.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company-matching.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)—all employees are company owners.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Employee assistance program (EAP).
• Short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Life and accident insurance.
• Tuition assistance, training, and workforce improvement reimbursement per year.
• Spot bonuses for exceptional performance.
• Annual Employee Recognition Awards with bonuses.
• Employee Referral Program.
• Free centralized, self-directed Learning Management System to learn at your own pace.
• Personalized career growth plans for every employee.