Software Developer (Scientist 2)

About the Role

The Applied Science and Engineering for Nuclear Technologies (ASENT) team in the Nuclear Systems Group (NEN-5) at Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking a Software Developer (Scientist 2) to support critical missions in nuclear safeguards, nonproliferation, and nuclear security applications. ASENT develops software for national security, institutional purposes, international safeguards, and nuclear nonproliferation. This role involves full-stack development, modernizing legacy systems, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.

The Nuclear Systems Group (NEN-5) conducts multi-disciplinary systems engineering and analysis for advanced nuclear reactor designs, nuclear nonproliferation, stockpile stewardship, and international treaty monitoring. NEN-5 collaborates with LANL's Global Security Directorate, other national laboratories, and industry to address emerging global nuclear energy needs and ensure safe operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop new software for internal and external customers.
• Maintain and modify existing software based on customer needs.
• Write, test, and deploy applications using modern development methodologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define work scope and software requirements.
• Work independently or within SCRUM teams to ensure continuous product improvement.
• Write proposals for new and continuing work.
• Promote a collaborative, respectful, and engaging team culture.
• Embody a "growth mindset" by welcoming feedback and supporting endeavors outside your primary expertise.
• Identify strategic partners who could benefit from NEN-5's multi-disciplinary expertise.
• Undertake periodic domestic and/or international travel based on programmatic needs.

Requirements

• Significant knowledge/understanding of software engineering principles, design patterns, and appropriate standards.
• Experience with modern software development methodologies such as Agile, DevOps, and SCRUM, including the appropriate tools and processes.
• Knowledge/experience with a minimum of three of the following:
  • C# and ASP.NET, C++, JAVA, JavaScript, and Python languages.
  • JSON, YAML, or Message Pack serialization languages.
  • ASP.NET Core, Blazor, Node.js, React, FAST Frameworks.
  • MVC, MVP, Microservices, and Event-Driven Architecture.
• Knowledge/experience with database design, security strategies, and component integration.
• Ability to develop and maintain software within a complex, high-security environment.
• Ability to navigate strict compliance requirements, controlled networks, and rigorous access protocols.
• Ability to understand, maintain, and modernize legacy systems (Fortran, C, older Python, etc.) working with established scientific codebases that span decades.
• Knowledge/understanding of hardware and operating systems, including:
  • System architecture.
  • Network infrastructure.
  • Client-server principles.
• Knowledge/understanding of hardware and software integration and testing.

Professional Skills

• Ability to collaborate and interact effectively with a wide range of personnel.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and follow through to completion on multiple tasks.
• Record of commitment to safety, security, compliance, quality, and fostering a respectful and fair work culture.

Clearance

Ability to obtain a DOE Q-level clearance, which typically requires U.S. Citizenship.

Qualifications

Requires a Bachelor's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college and university and 4 years of related experience, or equivalent experience directly related to the occupation. A degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Data Analytics, or Information Technology is preferred.

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience developing innovative advanced concepts, theories, methods, techniques, and approaches to address specialized problems.
• Demonstrated experience leading technical decision-making at the task level within a project; making decisions and/or recommendations that influence key programmatic objectives.
• Demonstrated knowledge and utilization of CI/CD Practices.
• Demonstrated ability in designing, building, and maintaining production-ready RESTful APIs using Node.js, Python, JAVA, and ASP.NET.
• Demonstrated ability to secure data in transit utilizing OAuth2.0.
• Demonstrated knowledge of AI ethics, bias mitigation, and explainable AI techniques while deploying AI models in real-time applications.
• Ability to mentor junior staff and students as they develop as programmers.
• Active Q Clearance.

Work Environment

This position is hybrid, located in Los Alamos, NM. Hybrid is defined as working partially onsite and partially offsite but within a 2-hour ground commute of the location. Regular appointment employees must serve a 1-year commitment in their current position to be eligible to apply for other Laboratory jobs.

Due to federal restrictions, citizens of the People's Republic of China (including Hong Kong and Macau), the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation who are not Lawful Permanent Residents are prohibited from accessing facilities supporting national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, including Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Benefits

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with a large nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Free basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually).
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays).
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50-mile radius).