Adaptive Optics Software Engineer

W. M. Keck Observatory; Waimea/Kamuela (HI); On-site; USD 109,000 - 132,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive starting salary

4 weeks of annual paid vacation

8% 403(b) employer contribution

Relocation assistance

Comprehensive health insurance

Job summary

W. M. Keck Observatory seeks an Adaptive Optics Software Engineer to design, develop, test, and maintain software powering the adaptive optics and related subsystems. You will collaborate with engineers and scientists to solve complex challenges and support world-class observing at the summit.

The role emphasizes real-time control systems, telemetry, and interfaces to telescope instruments, with opportunities to apply machine learning and sensor fusion techniques in an astronomical setting.

Qualifications

• Mastery of software engineering principles and practices.
• Experience with data analysis in Python, IDL, or MATLAB.
• Experience developing real-time control software for engineering/scientific applications.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and maintain software powering adaptive optics and related subsystems.
• Collaborate with engineers and scientists to solve complex challenges and advance astronomical observing.
• Implement and validate real‑time control and automation components and interfaces.

Skills

Software engineering

Data analysis

Python

IDL

MATLAB

Education

Bachelor of Science or equivalent in Computer Science/Engineering/Physics/Applied Mathematics

Tools

C/C++

Python

Unix/Linux

Shell scripting

Job description

Adaptive Optics Software Engineer

Application Deadline: 16 October 2026

Department: Software Engineering

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: W.M. Keck Headquarters

Reporting To: SW Engineering Manager

Compensation: $108,914 - $132,395 / year

Description

Turn cutting-edge code into clearer views of the universe as our new Adaptive Optics Software Engineer!
Join W. M. Keck Observatory as an Adaptive Optics Software Engineer and help develop the advanced software and real-time control systems that sharpen our view of the cosmos. You’ll collaborate with engineers and scientists to solve complex challenges, support world‑class observing, and advance the technology behind astronomical discovery.
What the Adaptive Optics Software Engineer Does:
The Adaptive Optics Software Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains the sophisticated software that powers the Observatory’s adaptive optics and related subsystems. These subsystems include the AO real‑time control systems, laser control systems, telemetry data systems, and interfaces to the telescope control system and science instruments. Working collaboratively with engineers, scientists, and external partners, the Adaptive Optics Software Engineer integrates new technologies, analyzes system performance, troubleshoots operational challenges, and advances innovative techniques—including predictive control, sensor fusion, and machine learning. From software development in the lab to commissioning and testing at the summit, the Adaptive Optics Software Engineer helps keep Keck’s world‑class observing systems reliable, efficient, and performing at their peak.

Why Choose W. M. Keck Observatory:

• Competitive starting salary
• Generous benefits package, including 4 weeks of annual paid vacation
• A robust 8% 403(b) employer contribution (with a 4% employee contribution)
• Tuition assistance for dependent children grades K-12 attending private school on Hawai’i Island
• Comprehensive, employer provided health insurance
• We offer relocation support for candidates moving from outside the area
• Be a part of a dedicated team working on the frontiers of astronomy

Required Qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor of Science or equivalent in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Applied Mathematics

Experience

• Five (5) years experience in development of software for engineering or scientific applications
• Two (2) years or more of experience in motion control and related hardware
• Five (5) years experience in programming in C or C++, and Python
• Experience developing real-time control applications
• Experience implementing automation controls (such as device control, motion control and sequence control) in a scientific or industrial setting
• Experience with real-time operating systems
• Experience in Unix/Linux and shell scripting

Skills

• Mastery of software engineering principles and practices
• Demonstrated data analysis skills with experience in either Python, IDL, or MATLAB

Technical Competencies

• Microsoft Office Proficiency
• Broad knowledge of modern software engineering practices, especially in software re‑use and testability
• High level of competency in C, C++, or Python programming
• Strong competency using O‑O paradigm and design patterns in delivering software solutions
• Practical experience of configuration management, build and release management processes

Certificates and Licenses

• Certificates or licenses are not required