CESM Software Engineer I

University Corporation for Atmospheric Research; United States; On-site; USD 67,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

UCAR's CGD Laboratory is seeking a Software Engineer to help modernize the CESM modeling software toward new architectures and hardware portability (GPUs). You will collaborate with the Community Software Facility and scientists to deliver high‑impact performance improvements and robust, maintainable code.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree in a computer‑related field, evidence of problem solving, and the ability to identify bottlenecks, optimize memory, and contribute to cross‑disciplinary

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer-related field or equivalent experience.
• Experience identifying performance bottlenecks and improving software.
• Knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and modern software practices.

Responsibilities

• Enhance CESM modeling ecosystem for performance and portability.
• Analyze existing modeling software capabilities and document decisions.
• Explore benchmarks in newer languages and paradigms for modernization.

Skills

Software development

Performance optimization

GPU portability

Education

Bachelor's degree in computer-related field

Job description

Position Type: Regular Visa Sponsored Job: Yes Relocation Assistance Eligible: Yes Hiring Range: 66,707.00 USD - 83,383.00 USD *Final salary and rates are based on education, experience, and skills relevant to the role. Application Closes at 12:00am MST on: 2026-09-08

About the Role

This position will focus on modernizing the software in CESM, a world-leading Earth system model, towards new architectures, infrastructure and computational approaches. The work will require some knowledge of algorithms, data structures, software development and hardware platforms, as well as attention to detail, and will emphasize problem solving and rapid development for the scientific community we serve. The position will interact with our Community Software Facility, as well as a variety of software engineers and scientific leadership on targeted, strategic priorities. This Software Engineer position is part of the computer engineering group within NSF NCAR's CGD Laboratory. CGD is home to approximately 130 staff members, along with visiting researchers from around the world. Together, they advance the understanding of Earth system variability and change while addressing the risks of environmental change through collaborative, innovative, and inclusive research. More information about CGD can be found online at https://www.cgd.ucar.edu/

Job Description

Application Deadline: This position will be posted until 11:59 pm MDT on Monday, September 7, 2026. Required application materials: (preferably in PDF Format) Resume Cover Letter - Please address how your skills and experience meet the needs of this position (for more information, please refer to the Key Responsibilities and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities sections of this job posting). Background Checks: Conducted for candidates selected for hire. Learn more. Work Location: Regardless of flexible work arrangements, UCAR requires ALL positions to be performed within the U.S., excluding U.S. Territories. Visa Sponsorship and Relocation Assistance may be available to final candidate if eligible.

What You Will Do

This is a brief summary of what one would expect to be generally responsible for in this role.

• Software Engineering & Optimization: Participates in the enhancement of the CESM modeling ecosystem, targeting performance improvements, memory reductions, hardware portability (GPUs) and other key project needs. Collaborates with team members & project stakeholders on proposed changes & processes for integration into the model.
• Code & Capability Analysis: Review and analyze existing modeling software capabilities to assess its structure, quality, and maintainability. Document findings, proposed changes, and technical decisions to support knowledge sharing across a wide team of scientists and engineers.
• Exploratory Development: Explore & evaluate benchmarks in newer languages and paradigms. Stay current with emerging tools, languages & techniques relevant to software modernization.

Who We'd Love To Join Our Team

Successful candidates will ensure their application materials speak to the following criteria:

Education and Experience (Required)

Bachelor’s degree in computer-related field; or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience (e.g. Associate’s degree and four years’ experience).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

Proven ability to identify performance bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and