Scientific Software Developer​/Data Systems

Position Overview

Do you enjoy collaborating with scientists and software developers to solve complex challenges? Contributing to breakthrough discoveries in science and working with unique experimental instruments in a world‑leading scientific research environment excites you? The Experimental Data Systems (EDS) division within the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) Directorate at SLAC is seeking a Computational Beamline Scientist to deploy and optimize complex computational workflows and integrate them into day‑to‑day facility operations.

As a software developer in the LCLS Data Management Department, you will work within an interdisciplinary team of software developers, scientists, and engineers. Your responsibilities will include adapting and optimizing codes for beamline deployment and user interaction, designing user interfaces, discovering and implementing efficient usage patterns, and operating machine‑learning algorithms and frameworks for science. Experience with scientific facility operation procedures and collaborative coding is required.

• Analyze, develop, implement, modify, and maintain algorithms and pipelines to analyze scientific data generated by LCLS.
• Develop, optimize, and maintain data‑analysis workflows for day‑to‑day facility operations.
• Interface with external collaborators and users, providing technical support for their use of LCLS software and hardware.
• Support the development of new machine‑learning data‑analysis approaches, focusing on usability by beamline scientists and scientific users.
• Assist users of scientific instruments in running self‑developed data‑analysis software within the LCLS framework, consulting with developers and designing integrated solutions.
• Debug and document computer application programs to meet users' needs.
• Observe, analyze, and optimize software resource usage patterns, training current and future users.
• Ensure effective communication and information flow to various audiences.
• Build and maintain relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.
• Promote a culture of safety and compliance with all applicable university policies and procedures.

• Participate in and contribute to general group research activities.
• Represent your research results at seminars, scientific conferences, and workshops.

• Bachelor's degree in physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, science, or related field and five years of relevant experience; or a combination of education and experience.
• Thorough understanding of all aspects of the software development life cycle and quality‑control practices.
• Strong knowledge of at least one programming language (Python required; C/C++ preferred but not required).
• Ability to select, adapt, and effectively use a variety of programming methods.
• Expertise in developing, testing, and deploying applications.
• Operational experience with scientific AI‑based algorithms and frameworks, including large‑language models.
• Ability to define and solve logical problems for highly technical applications.
• Effective communication skills with both technical and non‑technical clients.
• Demonstrated experience leading activities on structured team development projects.
• Ability to recognize and recommend needed changes in user and/or operations procedures.

• Background in x‑ray or material science.
• Previous experience in roles related to operations at a scientific facility.

• 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…