This role sits within the Operational Data, Product Generation and Flood Forecast System (ODPFS) unit, part of the Application Services Program in the Data and Digital Group. This unit is responsible for delivering critical 24/7 support and preventative maintenance for a suite of software systems essential for the Bureau internal as well as external/international data communications, flood forecasting, observation data processing, forecasting data processing etc.
The occupant of this position will be a member of the Operational Data, Product Generation and Flood Forecast System (ODPFS) team and will be responsible for the support, customisation, upgrading and management of the Product Generation (PG) system and other systems as required. This involves using deep knowledge of those applications and the technologies used, which include, Linux, Java, C/C++, Shell script, database and SQL, Python, Java Script, GitLab CI/CD, AWS etc.
As a Software Support Engineer, you will play a key role in a team that develops, supports, upgrades, and manages these applications. This position requires strong expertise in Linux, C/C++, and Bash scripting, along with solid proficiency in Perl, Java, PHP, and Python, database and SQL. You will collaborate with various teams to manage data delivery, server configuration, support, and training. Additionally, you will work closely with the Bureau's IT teams to ensure the seamless operation of critical applications, rapidly address operational challenges, optimise existing systems, and facilitate the deployment of new systems. Regular interaction with IT specialists, forecasters, policy managers, and other stakeholders for planning and reporting will be an integral part of your role.
The software systems you will manage are classified as critical Category 1 applications, which must maintain 24/7 availability and meet the highest standards of reliability, accuracy, and professionalism. This may include participating in an after-hours roster as required
To excel in this role, you should have exceptional communication skills, both technical and non-technical, be highly motivated, self-driven, and demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Experience in software development, operational support, testing, and implementing new applications—whether on-premises or in cloud environments like AWS - along with familiarity with ITIL frameworks, will be highly advantageous.
The key duties of the position include:
The responsibilities of the role (under broad direction) include but are not limited to:
1. Develop, Test, and Deploy: Design, develop, test, document, maintain, and deploy weather applications, data processing and archiving systems, as well as meteorological observation data retrieval and reporting tools. This includes diagnosing, triaging, and troubleshooting support requests from business owners while maintaining accurate documentation of actions and resolutions.
* Collaborate on Complex Issues: For complex technical challenges, engage and collaborate with key stakeholders to foster cooperation, lead technical teams, and drive effective solutions.
* Project Support: Contribute to various projects from initiation through to in-flight and operational transition stages. Ensure system-wide integration of new and existing applications by promoting effective software development and maintenance practices, with a focus on preventive measures.
* Workload Management: Plan, prioritise, and manage work backlogs and issue management systems such as Jira, GitLab, or Cherwell, ensuring adherence to support SLAs and agreed timelines.
* Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement initiatives for systems, standards, and processes, ensuring adherence to best practices.
* ITIL Service Management: Promote and instil ITIL Service Management principles, ensuring compliance with Technology Policies and Procedures, including Incident, Problem, and Change Management.
* Technical Escalation: Act as a key escalation point for technical issues within the application domain, liaising with the IT Command Centre, resolver groups, Bureau software partners, project managers, and application owners to ensure prompt issue resolution.
* Outage Management: Manage end-to-end production outages and escalations, involving appropriate stakeholders to drive resolution, communicating with impacted business units, gathering data on system and business impacts, and reporting to leadership teams.
* After-Hours Availability: Be available for after-hours roster restrictions as required.
* Commitment to APS Values, Employment Principles, Code of Conduct, and the Bureau Way.
* Complying with all Bureau work, health and safety policies and procedures, and taking reasonable care for your own health and safety and that of employees, contractors and visitors who may be affected by your conduct.
Eligibility
A degree or diploma of an Australian educational institution, or a comparable overseas qualification, which is appropriate to the duties; OR other comparable qualifications, which are appropriate to the duties.
Getting to know the Bureau of Meteorology
The Bureau of Meteorology is one of the few organisations that touches the lives of all Australians and all Australia, every day. The Bureau works across Australia and remote islands, providing services from the Antarctic to beyond the equator, and from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific. We are Australia's national weather, climate and water agency, in the Agriculture, Water and Environment portfolio of the Australian Government, operating under the authority of the Meteorology Act 1955 and the Water Act 2007. We provide data, information, knowledge, insight and wisdom to help Australians prepare and respond to the realities of their natural environment, including droughts, floods, fires, storms, tsunami and tropical cyclones. Our products and services include observations, forecasts, analysis and advice covering Australia's atmosphere, water, oceans and space environments. We undertake focused scientific research in support of our operations and services. Through regular forecasts, warnings, monitoring and advice, we provide one of Australia's most fundamental and widely used public services. We have strong relationships with our customers, partners and stakeholders in Australia, including the Australian Community and the emergency services sectors, all-levels of Government, and focus sectors including aviation, agriculture, energy and resources, national security and water.