Senior Windows Software Engineer - NREC

About the role

The Senior Windows Software Engineer will lead and contribute to the design, development, and integration of Windows-based software systems that interface with laboratory instruments supporting advanced robotics technologies. This role involves working on a diverse range of projects, including those involving military/defense applications and/or sponsored by military/defense entities.

Responsibilities

• Developing Windows-based applications and services that interface directly with laboratory instruments
• Building and maintaining software layers that expose instrument protocols, functions, and operations to the broader system
• Integrating with a variety of communication standards, including Modbus/TCP, Ethernet/IP, and EtherCAT
• Working with both modern and legacy codebases, including reverse-engineering or refactoring older components when necessary
• Collaborating with scientists, engineers, and product teams to understand instrument behavior and translate it into robust software interfaces
• Diagnosing hardware/software integration issues and develop reliable, repeatable solutions
• Writing clean, maintainable code and contributing to long-term architecture decisions
• Participating in testing, validation, and documentation to ensure high-quality instrument integrations
• Learning and applying scientific concepts relevant to instrument operation, with support from domain experts
• Supporting a team culture that values curiosity, knowledge-sharing, and supportive collaboration

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field
• At least 3 years of experience developing Windows applications or services using .NET/C#
• Familiarity with C++ and Python for tooling, integration, or performance-critical components
• Experience working with industrial or hardware-communication protocols (e.g., Modbus/TCP, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT); deep expertise not required - willingness to learn is valued
• Strong debugging skills across software, hardware interfaces, and network communication layers
• Clear, effective technical communication skills
• Ability to work with and modernize legacy codebases when needed
• Ability to work independently, ask questions and seek input when needed
• Commitment to a respectful and supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experience with instrument control, automation systems, or lab equipment
• Familiarity with serial communication, device drivers, or low-level hardware interfaces
• Exposure to real-time systems or deterministic communication protocols
• Experience writing APIs or SDKs for hardware devices
• Background in scientific computing, laboratory workflows, or experimental systems
• Interest in monitoring or supporting teammates as the team grows

Other Requirements

• Successful pre-employment background check
• Willingness to travel domestically and be willing to work outside of normal business hours as needed

Pay and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance
• A generous retirement savings program with employer contributions
• Tuition benefits
• Flexible vacation and holiday time
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance
• A free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass
• Access to family concierge services
• Access to a fitness center
• And much more!

Equal Opportunity Employer

Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals.