Agency

Department

PURPOSE

The Software Applications Developer I, under direction, develops and maintains code and workflows that support ecological modeling and analysis, working closely with scientists and end-users to ensure code quality, usability, and reproducibility.

DESCRIPTION

Functional Area 1: Modeling Application Development

Percent Effort: 60%

• Develops R code in support of ecological modeling, including scripts and functions used to run models.

• Analyzes biological, environmental, and related datasets to prepare inputs and evaluate model outputs.

• Utilizes and creates NetCDF files for data inputs and model outputs.

• Develops and maintains R packages.

Functional Area 2: Code Development and Management

Percent Effort: 25%

• Develops and maintains Git repositories for ecological modeling and data analysis.

• Develops interactive data applications for users to visualize and interact with input data and model outputs.

• Develops and maintains documentation for code and workflows to support reproducible use of modeling tools.

• Assists in development of lab policies relating to code development, sharing, and version control.

Functional Area 3: User Engagement and Documentation

Percent Effort: 15%

• Collaborates with software users (stakeholders, scientists, students, partners) throughout the development process, incorporating feedback into design and implementation of modeling tools.

• Provides support to users on running models and accessing data products.

• Documents workflows to promote reproducible science.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in an applicable field.

• Four months of related experience.

• Knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications.

• Knowledge of intermediate troubleshooting, client relations, formulating and contributing ideas.

• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

• Ability to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, which may include communications systems, computer networks and systems, cybersecurity systems, electrical grid, hazardous waste treatment system or water treatment system.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience developing code for ecological modeling.

• Experience working with spatial ecological data, including use of R (e.g., terra) and ArcGIS to prepare inputs for ecological models.

• Experience collaborating with software users throughout the development process, incorporating feedback into design and implementation.

• Fluency with Git-based version control and collaborative development workflows, including use of CI pipelines.

• Experience creating NetCDF files that conform to current CF metadata conventions.

• Proficiency in R and Python for data analysis, visualization, and ecological model development.

• Experience developing and maintaining R packages to support analytical workflows.

• Experience developing interactive data applications. (e.g., R Shiny)

NOTE:  Employment may be impacted by the Presidential proclamation issued on September 19, 2025 and the moratorium issued by Texas Governor Abbott on January 27, 2026.

• This position is grant-funded. Continued employment is contingent upon continued funding.

BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)

From our generous benefits package and professional development opportunities, to our retirement programs and our commitment to service excellence, the Island University is an engaging and rewarding place to work.

INSURANCE:

• Medical

  • $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).

  • Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:

    • Employee and Spouse

    • Employee and Children

    • Employee and Family coverage

• Dental & Vision

• Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account

DUAL CAREER PARTNER PROGRAM

ON-CAMPUS WELLNESS OPPORTUNITIES

Work Life Solutions:

• Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources

Tuition Benefits:

• Public Loan Forgiveness

• Book scholarships

• 100% tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year (other rules may apply).

Retirement:

• Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP)

• Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan

Time Off:

• 8+ hours of vacation paid time off every month.

• 8 hours of sick leave time off every month.

• 8 hours of paid time off for Birthday leave.

• 12-15 paid holidays each year.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.