Computer Scientist

Computer Scientist

The Computer Scientist performs multiple, varying, and complex assignments under the limited direction of a manager, project/program manager, team leader, or more experienced technical specialist. The incumbent is responsible for the design, development, and integration of NAS software. Responsible for testing and evaluating software, identifying areas for modification, and developing the modifications.

As a contributing specialist on large work activities, he/she designs, develops, conducts, and assists in guiding complex independent and interdependent software engineering and related studies to evaluate system effectiveness. Analyzes progression of processes and impact on current and future systems. Maintains current software and identifies software program requirements and demands for modified objectives, procedures, techniques, equipment, and evaluates timeliness of needed modifications.

Identifies software requirements effecting transfer of technology.

Applies experience and advanced knowledge in the theoretical foundations of computer science for the development of problem oriented and nonprocedural languages and their translating/operating systems, construction of input-output buffering schemes, and design of automatic scheduling and monitoring methods to increase scope and effectiveness of computer applications. Possesses knowledge of program languages, such as Oracle, JavaScript, and Hypertext Processor (PHP). Uses computer software concepts (such as, data representation, data structures, file systems, computer languages, software methodologies, network protocol, mathematical analysis, statistics and probability) to develop software source code to fix or enhance functionality of a system.

Knowledge of the principles, methods and tools for analyzing and developing test plans and procedures, including identifying operational issues. Conducts root cause analysis of issues, review new and existing code and recommend solutions to system problems. Defines system performance requirements in clear and effective software functional specifications. He/she defines, plans, and organizes assigned resources to accomplish organizational objectives. Allocates resources to accomplish small work-activities within established schedules.

He/she performs operational support through software development, software modification and technical assistance for restoration.

Contacts are internal and external. May act as a key technical point of contact for assigned activities. Contributes to the preparation of management/technical reports or contractual documents and may communicate the overall results of a project or work activity to FAA management, the aviation and aerospace industries, and other external parties.

Provides recommendations to improve work processes. Uses established policies/procedures as guidance for most assignments. Resolves all, but unique, technical problems without the intervention of management or a more experienced technical specialist. Identifies and informs management of problems that require their attention. Often develops and recommends techniques to address problem situations. Provides guidance to lower-level technical staff on how to solve difficult technical issues.

Work is reviewed periodically, typically at major milestones and at completion, for technical compliance and alignment with the requirements of the project or other work activity.