Software Developer I

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University’s Center for Survey Statistics and Methodology (CSSM) is seeking a Software Developer I to contribute to software for the USDA-sponsored NRI survey and other CSSM clients. The role involves applying statistical methods, building estimation tools, and expanding capabilities in database and web programming.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma or equivalent, with preferred degrees in CS/CE/Math/Stats and some experience in higher education settings.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, mathematics, statistics, or related field.
• Experience in a higher education setting.
• Experience with NRI.
• Programming experience with machine learning and LLMs.
• Programming experience with contrastive learning methodology.

Responsibilities

• Develop software for statistical methods and algorithms.
• Develop an estimation program with statistical sampling and imputation methods.
• Database programming.
• Systems programming.
• Web application programming.

Skills

Machine learning

LLMs

Contrastive learning

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/CE/Math/Stats or related field

Job description

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.

Position Title

Software Developer I

Job Group

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent

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 methodology

The 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.

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

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

R20057

Iowa 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].

General 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.