Entry-Level Controls Software Associate

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Controls Software group is seeking an enthusiastic science or engineering graduate with software engineering skills to join our team. This is an exciting entry-level opportunity to learn how the control system connects the diverse equipment to the computer interfaces used to operate the linear accelerator.

SLAC pushes the frontiers of human knowledge and drives discoveries that benefit humankind. Our 2-mile-long particle accelerator is the lab’s backbone. Once the scene of major discoveries in particle physics, today it generates the world’s brightest X-rays for our revolutionary X-ray laser, the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS).

The EED is responsible for electronics subsystems and associated software controls for the LCLS and other accelerators throughout SLAC. The successful candidate responds to and resolves customer support requests via the accelerator software problem reporting tool, or via other live communications in a timely and professional manner, all while building customer rapport. With the aid of Subject Matter Expert (SME) engineers as necessary, troubleshoot technical issues and contribute to their resolution while maintaining strong communications with all stakeholders. New employees pair with experienced mentors to help advance learning opportunities.

Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require onsite work.

Your specific responsibilities include:

• Operational and maintenance support for accelerator control applications, tools, and electronics subsystem software.
• Troubleshooting and identification of software issues.
• Programming, testing, and deployment of software bug fixes and enhancements in close coordination with SMEs.
• Follow-up support for software issues assigned
• Stewardship for various controls applications after gaining the necessary experience.
• Resolution of diverse technical issues that may arise within the organization’s Rapid Response Teams.
• Attend daily meetings where software problems are discussed and assigned.
• Report status of the running accelerators to the engineering team.
• Manage entries in SLAC’s software problem reporting tool.
• Evaluate software job requests for accuracy, conflicts, completeness and potential escalation.
• Seek proper authorization to install new software and bug fixes into the accelerator complex.

Note: This is a 24 months fixed term position with the possibility of extension or conversion to a regular - continuing position.

To be successful in this position you will bring:

• Bachelor's degree in physics, engineering, computer science or related field
• Familiarity with source code control and a structured release environment.
• Programming skills with languages such as C and/or C++, MATLAB, Python/QT
• Demonstrated knowledge with Linux/Unix (bash)
• Proficiency in debugging, testing, and deploying software applications.
• Ability to define and solve logical problems for highly technical applications.
• Strong communication skills with both technical and non-technical clients.
• Demonstrated excellent planning and organizational skills.
• Strong problem solving skills, independent decision- making, and the ability to work in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Combined Physics and Computer Science Bachelors or Masters Degree
• Background in Object Oriented Analysis and Design, Python, QT, GUI design, Model View Control, Design Patterns, Software Development Cycle.
• Experience with particle accelerator technologies.

SLAC Employee Competencies:

• Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
• Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
• Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
• Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
• Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
• Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
• Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.

Work Standards:

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1—General Policy and Responsibilities:
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide,

As an organization that receives federal funding, SLAC and Stanford University have a COVID-19 vaccination requirement that will apply to all university employees, including those working remotely in the United States and applicable subcontractors.

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Classification Title: Staff Engineer 1

Duration: Fixed Term

Grade: I, Job code: 0131

The expected pay range for this position is $84,000 to $141,000 per annum. SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location and external market pay for comparable jobs.