Software Developer I

Iowa State; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University’s Center for Survey Statistics and Methodology seeks a Software Developer I to join a team delivering software for NRI surveys and CSSM clients. The role blends statistical programming with systems and web development in a university setting.

The position targets candidates with a CS-related degree and interest in machine learning and advanced analytics, offering a term appointment with potential renewal based on funding.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, mathematics, statistics, or related field.
• Experience with software development in an academic or university setting preferred.
• Knowledge of machine learning and large language models (LLMs) is advantageous.
• Experience with contrastive learning methodologies is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop software for the USDA-sponsored National Resources Inventory (NRI) survey and CSSM clients.
• Develop estimation programs using statistical sampling and imputation methods.
• Database programming for data management and analysis.
• Web application programming as part of software delivery.

Skills

Machine learning

LLMs

Contrastive learning

Higher education experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Job description

Software Developer I - Picture shows Iowa State University logo in red.### Software Developer IApply: Ames, IA: Full time: Posted 2 Days Ago: R20057## Position Title:Software Developer I## Job Group:Professional & Scientific## Required Minimum Qualifications:High school diploma or equivalent## Job Description:The Center for Survey Statistics and Methodology (CSSM) in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Iowa State University is seeking a Software Developer I. CSSM provides statistical research and consulting, data analysis, software development, and IT support related to grants and cooperative agreements. CSSM works with a number of groups including the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and other groups at Iowa State University. This position is specifically responsible for the development of software for the USDA-sponsored National Resources Inventory (NRI) survey and other CSSM clients. This position will be involved with one or more of the following components: software development with statistical methods and algorithms; development of an estimation program with statistical sampling and imputation methods; database programming; systems programing; web application programming. **Preferred Qualifications:*** Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, mathematics, statistics, or related field* Previous experience working in a higher education setting* Previous knowledge or experience working with NRI* Programming experience with machine learning and LLMs* Programming experience with contrastive learning methodologyThe Center for Survey Statistics and Methodology (CSSM) in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Iowa State University provides statistical research and consulting, data analysis, software development, and IT support related to grants and cooperative agreements. CSSM works with a number of groups including the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), and within ISU, the Survey & Behavioral Research Services (SBRS). For more information about CSSM, please visit: https://www.cssm.iastate.edu/ This a term position with an end date of 3/31/2027. The possibility for renewal is based on funding availability**.**Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position. **Application Instructions:** To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:* Resume/Curriculum Vitae* Letter of Application/Cover Letter **Why Choose Iowa State University?** Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:* Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans* Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans* Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)* Life insurance and long-term disability* Flexible Spending Accounts* Various voluntary benefits and discounts* Employee Assistance Program* Wellbeing program If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [e-mail], or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.## Appointment Type:Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)## Proposed End Date or Length of Term:## March 31, 2027## Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work Period## Time Type:Full time## Pay Grade:PS808## Original Posting Date:November 6, 2026## Posting Close Date:November 12, 2026## Job Requisition Number:R20057Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. [phone], email [e-mail] ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.Current employees (excluding temporary, student and graduate assistants) must apply through the Workday Internal Careers Hub.