Intermediate Scientific Programmer

About this Opportunity Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) seeks an Intermediate Scientific Programmer. ONC seeks an uniquely qualified individual for the development of data products within our data management system: Oceans 3.0. The successful candidate will have an M.Sc. or equivalent experience in a relevant science or engineering discipline, with knowledge of data science, scientific computing, software development and science. The Scientific Programmer role is a key position, bridging the gap between software development and scientific inquiry, enabling both. Responsible for both the scientific integrity of the data products and code quality, the Scientific Programmer transforms raw data into useable information for scientists and decision makers. Proficiency in MATLAB and Python programming languages is required. This role drives innovation through the application of advanced computational techniques to complex oceanographic datasets, while maintaining operational stability of Oceans 3.0. We are looking for a creative problem-solver, with strong programming skills and a passion for ocean science. This posting will remain open during the University’s holiday closure (December 19, 2025 to January 2, 2026); inquiries may be directed to the department contact listed below: Lyuba Goundareva (Corporate Services Manager) lyubag@uvic.ca *This position is eligible for a Hybrid Work Arrangement* The salary range for this position is:  Recruitment range: $79,376 - $87,518 starting salary determined by the PEA Collective Agreement. Performance range: $103,243 salary range ceiling is available through annual performance increases.  Job Summary Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) is a world-leading organization supporting ocean discovery and technological innovation. ONC is a not-for-profit society that operates and manages innovative observatories on behalf of the University of Victoria that supply power and data connectivity to various scientific instruments located in coastal, deep-ocean, and Arctic environments. ONC’s cable arrays host thousands of sensors distributed in, on and above the seabed along with mobile and land-based assets strategically located, instruments that address key scientific and policy issues (subsea earthquakes and tsunamis, ocean acidification, marine biodiversity, etc.) within a wide range of environments. As part of the Observatory Digital Operations department, the Software Development team designs, implements, operates and maintains ONC’s flagship data management system, Oceans 3.0, which empowers user communities in accomplishing complex analytic tasks and dealing with large data volumes of increasing size and complexity. In fulfilling its role, the department supports ONC's core mandate to collect and serve data and information needs in line with the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data principles while ensuring the highest quality and security standards in alignment with the UVic Information Security Standards. The Software Development team is responsible for the lifecycle of projects requiring software; and implements, operates, and continuously improves the ONC data management system Oceans 3.0. The team may also take on related digital infrastructure projects, apps, architecture and support. This comprehensive system sets ONC apart as the global leader in ocean data delivery. The Intermediate Scientific Programmer (Scientific Programmer) works as part of a team to design, develop, deploy, and maintain data products and associated software. These data products provide the means for scientists to acquire ONC’s immense repository of raw data, processed data, data visualizations, and real-time data. The Scientific Programmer ensures operational reliability and quality of those data products. This position contributes to data acquisition, new instrument integration and support, metadata, data and statistical analysis, and any scientific and high-performance computing activity at ONC as needed. This often includes internal and external user support. The Scientific Programmer reports to the Associate Director, Software Development with work assigned on a project basis and in the general area of data products and scientific computing support. The Scientific Programmer works closely with software developers and software team leads to ensure the scientific quality of ONC’s software, including reviewing requirements and writing test plans. Job Requirements The Intermediate Scientific Programmer requires a master’s degree in ocean, earth or geophysical science with a strong scientific computing component, or a master’s degree in computer science or engineering with a strong component of earth, ocean or geophysical science and a demonstrated ability to carry out scientific programming tasks and a minimum of four years of scientific software development or scientific computing experience. Alternatively, an equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience and Knowledge Requirements: Proven ability to design, write, build, test and debug software, with a focus on scientific computing Demonstrated proficiency in the following computing languages: Python, MATLAB, Java or C++, SQL Management of information systems and technology in accordance with industry best practice, including relevant professional development to keep knowledge and skills current Data analysis and visualization using technologies such as MATLAB, SciPy/NumPy/Matplotlib or equivalents Numerical analysis including time series analysis, statistical analysis Familiarity with data acquisition and data science concepts in earth, ocean and geophysical sciences Scientific data and metadata formats and standards such as NetCDF, HDF5, ISO-19115 or other XML-based format used in Earth and Ocean sciences. Competencies: Ability to work independently and proactively within a team-oriented environment Ability to work in a project-based, multi-disciplinary, time-constrained collaborative team with agile requirements Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present scientific concepts in a clear, concise manner to non-technical audiences Excellent problem-solving skills Ability to learn new technologies Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and reliability Highly desired assets: Knowledge of data preservation and distribution principles such as FAIR and CARE Experience with modelling and simulation Database management systems, especially PostgreSQL and Cassandra Knowledge of web services, API and interoperability High-performance and/or cloud-based computing Software lifecycle and project methodologies such as Scrum/Agile Familiarity with software development fundamentals, including: integrated development environments, continuous integration, automated unit and integration testing, revision/versioning control systems such as Git Experience in interfacing with scientific instrumentation, especially over IP networks Territory Acknowledgement: We acknowledge and respect the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Xʷsepsəm/Esquimalt) Peoples on whose territory the university stands, and the Lək̓ʷəŋən and WSÁNEĆ Peoples whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day. Equity Statement: UVic is committed to upholding the values of equity, diversity, inclusion and human rights in our living, learning and work environments. In pursuit of our values, we seek members who are eager to actively participate in that shared responsibility. We actively encourage applications from members of historically and systemically marginalized groups. Accessibility Statement: If you anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application and hiring process contact: uviccareers@uvic.ca Any personal information provided will be maintained in confidence. What UVic Offers: To learn more click here