Rewritten Job Description:

Position Title: Research Software Engineer – Advanced Research Computing (ARC)
Location: Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
Appointment Type: One-Year Restricted Role (with potential for extension)
Salary Range: $79,000 – $97,000 annually
Hours per Week: 40
Review Date: August 18, 2025

Virginia Tech’s Advanced Research Computing (ARC) invites applications for a Research Software Engineer role focused on developing High-Performance Computing (HPC) tools to support cutting-edge research and innovation. This one-year restricted appointment offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative and dynamic environment supporting academic research across a variety of disciplines.

About ARC:
ARC provides state-of-the-art, scalable computational resources to the Virginia Tech research community, hosting 50,000 CPU cores, 500 advanced GPUs, 10 petabytes of storage, and cutting-edge visualization tools. With a diverse array of research needs spanning science, engineering, the arts, and beyond, ARC fosters groundbreaking discoveries through innovation in HPC infrastructure and services.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with computational science and systems engineering teams to develop software applications and system integrations for research computing.
  • Build, test, and deploy research computing tools tailored to the needs of the Virginia Tech research community.
  • Investigate emerging technologies related to HPC infrastructure, storage, and networking applications to enhance research capabilities.
  • Design and implement tools to connect datasets, applications, and computing/storage resources for seamless research workflows.
  • Develop applications within ARC’s ecosystem, including web portals, visualization platforms, containerization/virtualization technologies, and cloud computing solutions.
  • Operate and safeguard the cybersecurity posture of research systems, ensuring compliance with security and disaster recovery protocols.
  • Provide technical support for virtualization and containerization technologies integrated into research workflows.
  • Conduct usability testing for web-based interfaces and related tools, proposing design enhancements to improve productivity and collaboration.
  • Mentor students, contribute to open-source software, and actively engage with the broader research community through academic conferences and sponsored projects.

Required Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, science, or a related field—or a Bachelor’s degree with significant relevant experience.
  • Proficiency in Linux system administration and shell scripting.
  • Programming experience in multiple major languages (e.g., C/C , Java, Python).
  • Experience with the development and deployment of web services.
  • Working knowledge of version control systems, particularly Git.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues effectively.
  • Strong communication skills, including the ability to write clear technical documentation for users and developers.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience conducting research in computational fields.
  • Proficiency in developing and implementing scientific software applications.
  • Familiarity with artificial intelligence and machine learning frameworks.
  • Understanding of HPC ecosystem technologies and software (e.g., Open OnDemand, Globus, Slurm, ColdFront, GPU accelerators, and high-performance storage).
  • Background in high-performance computing and parallel computing technologies.

Position Highlights:

  • Engage with a vibrant research community spanning diverse disciplines at Virginia Tech.
  • Contribute to advanced computation projects that enable scientific discovery, innovation, and collaboration.
  • Explore emerging technologies in HPC systems, cybersecurity tools, and research applications.
  • Opportunities to mentor students, work on open-source software, attend national conferences, and engage in impactful research projects.

Dedicated to Diversity:
Virginia Tech values diversity and strives to create an inclusive environment that welcomes individuals of all backgrounds. We encourage applications from those underrepresented in STEM fields and other disciplines.

About Virginia Tech:
Virginia Tech, guided by its motto “Ut Prosim” (That I May Serve), is a top-tier research institution committed to transdisciplinary education, innovation, and discovery. With more than 36,000 students and over $500 million in annual research expenditures, the university fosters critical inquiry and creative expression.

Additional Information:

  • The successful candidate will be required to undergo a criminal conviction check.
  • If accommodations are needed for individuals with disabilities, contact IT Human Resources at [email protected] at least 10 business days before the event.

Application Timeline:
Advertised: August 6, 2025
Applications Close: TBD

Virginia Tech is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of age, color, disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or other protected categories

To apply for this job please visit jobs.chronicle.com.