• Salary Package: From $93,986 to $101,901 (Level 7) p.a., plus 17% employer's superannuation and annual leave loading
• Appointment Type: Full-time, fixed term for a period of 3 years
• Macquarie University (North Ryde) location

The Role

Macquarie University’s Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) department is currently seeking a suitably qualified Software Engineer. Reporting to the Head of AAO Research Data and Software, you will:

• Contribute expert and specialised technical and software development to the delivery of instrumentation projects;
• Contribute to the development of concepts, system and subsystem level software design for instrumentation projects;
• Develop software for assigned projects and specifications;
• Be responsible for ensuring assigned software meets expectations;
• Develop test plans for the verification of software and acceptance of components, sub-systems, and instruments where applicable;
• Work collaboratively with other teams to resolve engineering and or technical challenges and develop innovative solutions to resolve problems;
• Produce relevant documentation for project proposals, reviews, software subsystem analysis and tests, and for instrument software operation and maintenance manuals.

About You

You will have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher in software engineering, computer science, or information technology, or in an engineering, physics, or astronomy related discipline with relevant experience and training in software engineering. You are a team player with significant years of experience in designing and implementing complicated software solutions in C/C++ and Python. You have strong verbal and written communication skills, are highly organised in planning and prioritising your work to meet demanding deadlines.

About Us

Macquarie is the new home for the instrumentation group of the former Australian Astronomical Observatory. Over decades, this Sydney-based group has established an enviable reputation for its astronomical instrumentation across optical, mechanical and electronic engineering, software (instrument and telescope control, and pipeline development) and full lifecycle data management.

Macquarie is excited to take a significant role in leading and growing Australia’s strength in astronomical instrumentation, partnering with the Australian National University and the University of Sydney to establish a new national capability for astronomical instrumentation under the banner Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO).

AAO-Macquarie has a new vision and an exciting agenda for transformation – in both scale and efficiency. As part of its expansive new vision, AAO-Macquarie’s team of experts will build on the University’s existing strengths in astronomy, photonics, laser technology, microfabrication, applied optics and sensing communications, with the aim of increasing industry engagement, identifying opportunities to apply AAO-Macquarie’s expertise to medicine and defence, and expanding its presence in the fields of optics and sensing, in addition to the ongoing mission of world-leading excellence in astronomical instrumentation.

The AAO-Macquarie group has a long-standing commitment to advancing equity and diversity principles. We hold silver status in the Pleiades awards, Australia’s scheme for certifying commitment and progress in equity, diversity and inclusion in astronomy and physics, and are committed to continual improvement in these principles.

To Apply

To be considered for this position, please apply online by submitting your cv and a separate cover letter that demonstrates how you meet the following selection criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in software engineering, computer science, or information technology, or in an engineering, physics, or astronomy related discipline with relevant experience and training in software engineering;
• Experience collaborating and working as part of a multi-discipline team;
• Demonstrated strong skills in C++ and Python;
• Demonstrated exposure to a wider range of programming languages such as C, Java, shell scripts, and javascript;Demonstrated skills working in a *nix/Linux environment;
• Demonstrated experience with hardware control, for prototype or research-level instrumentation;
• Demonstrated experience with version control and continuous integration systems;
• Demonstrated skills working with emerging technologies and exploring ways to implement these for the development of innovative solutions;
• Knowledge of and/or training in systems engineering practices for technical projects;
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build relationships with stakeholders at all levels;
• Strong problem solving, analytical and evaluation skills.

For further information regarding this role please view the position description

Specific Role Enquiries: Dr Katrina Sealey, Head of AAO Research Data and Software via e-mail katrina.sealey@mq.edu.au

General Recruitment Enquiries: Anne Kumanan, HR Officer at anne.kumanan@mq.edu.au

Applications Close: Sunday 22nd March 2020 at 11:55pm AEDT

Macquarie University is committed to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. We value individual difference and recognise the strength of a vibrant, diverse and inclusive workforce where the backgrounds, perspectives and experiences of our staff are a driving force for collaboration, innovation and impact.

We work to ensure genuine equality of opportunity for people regardless of their gender, age, cultural background, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability and/or family status, and we encourage you to apply for a position at Macquarie University.