Head of Software Engineering

Position Description:

Position Summary
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) is a nonprofit organization that manages and operates the NRAO under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation. The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration, operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe.

The NRAO is seeking an experienced and collaborative Head of Software Engineering (Software Division Head) to lead one of the Observatory's most critical technical organizations. Reporting to the Assistant Director for Data Management & Software (DMS), the Head of Software Engineering provides strategic, operational, and technical leadership for a diverse team of software engineering professionals responsible for developing and supporting software systems that enable scientific discovery, telescope operations, data management, and Observatory-wide services.

The Head of Software Engineering oversees the Division's programmatic direction, personnel management, and budget planning while fostering collaboration across scientific, engineering, operations, and information technology organizations. The successful candidate will be a proven leader who can guide organizational and technical evolution, strengthen engineering practices, and build high-performing teams capable of delivering reliable, scalable software systems in support of the Observatory's mission.

This position may be located at any NRAO facility (Charlottesville, VA; Socorro or Albuquerque, NM; Green Bank, WV). Hybrid or remote work arrangements may be considered for highly qualified candidates.

What You Will Be Doing
This is a senior leadership position requiring a combination of strategic vision, organizational leadership, and technical credibility. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Division Leadership & Strategy
• Providing overall leadership and strategic direction for the Software Division
• Developing and executing division plans that support Observatory priorities, scientific goals, and operational requirements
• Ensuring accountability for Division objectives, deliverables, and Program Operating Plan (POP) commitments
• Representing the Division in reviews, planning activities, and leadership discussions
• Leading organizational initiatives that improve effectiveness, adaptability, and long-term sustainability of software engineering capabilities

Program & Resource Management
• Managing Division budgets, staffing plans, and resource allocation across multiple groups and initiatives
• Overseeing software development portfolios and ensuring effective prioritization, planning, and delivery of strategic and operational initiatives
• Supporting workforce planning and long-term organizational sustainability
• Establishing effective planning and delivery processes that promote transparency, adaptability, and predictable execution

Technical Leadership & Engineering Excellence
• Providing leadership for cross-division and Observatory-wide software initiatives
• Promoting software engineering best practices, technical standards, and quality processes across the organization
• Encouraging modern software development practices that improve collaboration, quality, maintainability, and delivery outcomes

People Leadership & Organizational Development
• Leading, mentoring, and supporting Group Managers and technical leaders
• Fostering a culture of trust, accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement
• Supporting recruitment, performance management, career development, and succession planning
• Championing professional development and workforce growth initiatives
• Creating an environment that supports learning, innovation, and continuous improvement
• Ensuring standardization and equity in the hiring and compensation of software engineers

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
• Building strong partnerships with scientific staff, Observatory operations, engineering organizations, project teams, and institutional leadership
• Supporting matrix-managed teams working across projects, telescope operations, and software organizations
• Communicating technical and strategic information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Providing consultation and support to the Assistant Director for Data Management & Software and other senior leaders on matters relevant to Observatory programs and strategy