Junior Software Engineer

University of Minnesota; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 36,000 - 52,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Minnesota's Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics is seeking a skilled software engineer for a temporary, hourly role in the Twin Cities. You will develop and maintain GPU-native hypersonic CFD software, and contribute to GUI and Python API development while integrating with SABRE mesh tools.

Required skills include C/C++, Python, GPU programming (CUDA/HIP), Linux, and CMake, plus experience with CFD software and GitHub.

Qualifications

• BA/BS or a combination of relevant education and work experience to equal at least four years.
• Proficient in C/C++, Python.
• Experience with GPU programming languages such as OCCA, CUDA, HIP.
• Knowledge of Linux operating systems and build/installation processes e.g. CMake.
• Experience developing CFD software.
• Experience with Github or similar.
• Ability to learn new programming concepts quickly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• US Citizen.
• Minnesota resident.

Responsibilities

• GPU solver development: assist in software development for the GPU-native hypersonic flow solver and related tools.
• Lead GUI and Python API development.
• Create the communication layer between in-house CFD and mesh generation software.
• Develop unit and regression tests; maintain Github repository and CI.
• Assist with SABRE mesh generation software as needed.
• Development of software build and installation processes: create portable CMake files and install/build processes across architectures.
• Interface with users and help with software installation questions.

Skills

C/C++

Python

GPU programming

Linux

CMake

GitHub

CFD software

US Citizenship

Minnesota resident

Education

BA/BS or equivalent

Job description

Job ID: 376247

Location: Twin Cities

Job Family: Information Technology

Full/Part Time: Part-Time

Regular/Temporary: Temporary

Job Code: 8631DO

Employee Class: Civil Service

About the Job

This is a temporary, flexible, hourly position for the Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics.

We are looking for an experienced software engineer to help with the development and maintenance of our GPU-native hypersonic CFD software. A successful candidate will be able to demonstrate proficiency in software development and scientific computing algorithms as well as the ability to learn quickly. Candidates will be evaluated solely on their ability to demonstrate the skills, knowledge, and experience required.

Job Duties/Responsibilities:

(85%) GPU solver development

• Assist in software development for our GPU-native hypersonic flow solver and associated software tools
• Lead development of the Graphical User Interface (GUI) and Python API
• Create the communication layer between our in-house CFD and mesh generation software
• Develop unit and regressions tests
• Maintain Github repository and Continuous Integration (CI) efforts
• Assist with development of the SABRE mesh generation software as needed

(15%) Development of software build and installation processes

• Create CMake files, design build and installation process to be portable across different computing architectures
• Integrate a software license and manager license server
• Interface with users and assist with questions and debugging efforts related to software installation

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS or a combination of relevant education and work experience to equal at least four years
• Proficient in C/C++, Python
• Experience with GPU programming languages such as OCCA, CUDA, HIP
• Knowledge of Linux operating systems and build/installation processes e.g. CMake
• Experience developing CFD software
• Experience with Github or similar
• Ability to learn new programming concepts quickly
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
• US Citizen
• Minnesota resident

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with mesh generation software such as Pointwise, Link3D, SABRE
• Experience with HPC systems and MPI communication
• Knowledge of algorithms for hypersonic CFD
• Understanding of physics involved in hypersonic systems

About the Department

The Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics (AEM) is in the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota, which is a world-class research university with outstanding resources and programs in engineering and science, health sciences, social sciences and liberal arts. The department has vibrant and active research programs in all areas of aerospace engineering and mechanics including fluid dynamics, hypersonics, solid mechanics and materials, and aerospace systems and GNC. The department is poised for growth in both its academic programs and research areas and seeks to expand its faculty by making a number of strategic hires over the next several years. The AEM department has close ties with on-campus multidisciplinary centers, and convenient access to outstanding shared experimental and computational facilities, such as the Gemini-Huntley Robotics Research Laboratory of the Minnesota Robotics Institute, the Minnesota Nano Center etc.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $32 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications.

Learn more about retirement plans.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.