HLS Manager

The High-Level Software (HLS) / Control Systems (CS) Lead is critical to the Observatorys ability to operate safely reliably and as an integrated scientific system. By serving as the technical authority and architect for the Observatory Control System and Global Interlock System this role ensures that complex hardware software and operational elements function together as a coherent whole. Strong architectural leadership at this level reduces technical risk enables scalability across sites and protects long-term scientific capability.

This role provides the continuity and technical governance needed to translate scientific and operational requirements into robust maintainable control system solutions. Through disciplined requirements management design standards and cross-team coordination the HLS / CS Lead safeguards system performance safety and schedule while enabling efficient collaboration among internal teams and external partners. Without this leadership the Observatory would face increased integration risk higher lifecycle costs and reduced operational resilience.

The ngGONG project is currently funded for a three-year design phase with the potential for additional funding contingent upon selection to advance into construction.

This position is based in Boulder Colorado on the University of Colorado campus.

What Youll Do

HLS / CS Team Management & Oversight

• Serve as the software manager and system architect for the Observatory Control System (OCS) and all related software subsystems.
• Serve as software manager for the ngGONG Data Management System and data processing software including the interface to the NSO Data Center.
• Serve as the technical lead and system architect for the Global Interlock System (GIS).
• Act as Control Account Manager (CAM) for HLS / CS overseeing budgets schedules and risk management.
• Participate in project reviews design baselines and configuration-controlled documentation processes.
• Provide regular reporting to the Project Manager and participate in governance and review activities.
• Lead hiring mentoring and day-to-day technical oversight of HLS / CS programmers staff and contractors.

Requirements Designs & Specifications Development

Post-Project Planning & Estimating

Core Competencies

Why NSO

At the National Solar Observatory youll join a mission-driven community working at the frontier of solar science. Our teams are dedicated to understanding the Sun in ways that protect technology enhance scientific discovery and inspire global audiences. NSO offers a collaborative forward-thinking environment where curiosity is encouraged varied perspectives are valued and employees can make a tangible impact on science and society. Here you will have the opportunity to grow your career lead innovative outreach programs and help shape the national conversation around solar physics and space weather.

Qualifications

Required

Preferred

Physical Requirements

Thephysicaldemands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties responsibilities and skillsrequiredby personnel so classified. This Institute promotes Equal Employment Opportunity workplace that includes reasonable accommodations to otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees.

Salary and Benefits

Salary range : $173000 to $200000. The final salary will depend on skills qualifications and experience.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions competitive salary commensurate with experience and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at NSO and AURA

The National Solar Observatory is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) a consortium of leading universities and research institutions committed to advancing astronomical discovery. AURA manages world-class observatories for the National Science Foundation providing scientific leadership operational excellence and a collaborative environment that supports groundbreaking research. As part of AURA NSO benefits from shared resources and a community dedicated to innovation transparency and public service ensuring its work has broad and lasting impact.

How to Apply :

If youre interested in providing high-level administrative support for a mission-driven scientific program at one of the worlds premier observatories we encourage you to apply. Applications received by February 192026 will receive priority consideration. This position will remain open until filled.

Submit your CV and cover letter (PDF format preferred) via our application system. Please name your files in the format : .

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here

Required Experience :

Manager

Key Skills

Restaurant Experience,Customer Service,Employee Evaluation,Management Experience,Math,Employment & Labor Law,Sanitation,Leadership Experience,P&L Management,Mentoring,Supervising Experience,Restaurant Management

Employment Type : Full-Time

Department / Functional Area : Engineering

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1

Monthly Salary Salary : 173000 - 200000