Software Developer, Experiment Controls

Position Overview

Specific Responsibilities

Preferred Requirements

Physical Requirements And Working Conditions

SLAC Employee Competencies

Classification Title

Job code

Grade

Duration

Expected Pay Range

• Develop, maintain, and own high-level Python and C/C++ applications and libraries that are essential for experiment operations, instrument control, and data acquisition.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers to translate experimental requirements into well-designed, reliable, and maintainable software solutions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues in the software application stack, from the user graphical interfaces down to the communication with our control system infrastructure primarily consisting of EPICS (Experimental Physics and Industrial Control System).
• Contribute to collaboration with other team members and international groups on public and private software packages on GitHub, including the review of peer-submitted code.
• Develop and refine engineering processes and tools contributing to strategic improvements and long-term system reliability.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Physical Sciences, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field, and five years of relevant experience or a combination of education and relevant experience.
• Strong proficiency in Python and Python GUI development (PyQt)
• Experience working with C/C++ code development and maintenance
• Experience with version control systems, particularly Git, and collaborative development workflows
• Experience performing end-to-end ownership of tasks, including project management, schedule, and stakeholder management
• Experience working in cross-disciplinary teams or environments
• Effective communication (written and verbal)

Preferred Requirements

• Experience with EPICS (Experimental Physics and Industrial Control System) development
• Familiarity with EPICS Channel Access (CA) and/or PV Access (PVA) protocols
• Experience working in a scientific, research, or academic environment
• Extensive experience working in Linux environments, preferably RHEL or Rocky Linux
• Good understanding of network architecture and operational technology systems
• Familiarity with control systems concepts and infrastructure
• Experience leveraging AI models and tools to accelerate development and build AI applications that improve operational effectiveness
• M.Sc. in Computer Engineering/Science, Physical Science, or a closely related field