Research Programmer II

Description

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the "Trojan Family," which is comprised of the faculty, students and staff that make the university what it is.

The Institute For Creative Technologies is looking for a Research Programmer to participate in an effort in human character animation. The position will entail the maintenance, development and improvement of USC's SmartBody real-time animation system.

The Virtual Humans Group is seeking applicants with experience developing systems for animated characters in interactive applications. This experience includes familiarity with body and facial animation techniques, as well as familiarity with computer graphics algorithms such as collision detection, planning, physical simulation and artificial intelligence. The ideal candidate will have experience managing, developing and improving software systems, as well as experience guiding junior programmers. Candidate must have expertise in C++ and familiarity with scripting languages, such as Python. Candidates must understand best practices of software maintenance and design.

Job Accountabilities:
-----------------------

# Participates in research projects. Contributes to research designs, develops prototype implementations, and participates in the preparation of papers describing the research.

# Interfaces with researchers to identify and determine requirements. Conducts detailed systems analysis to define system scope, objectives and implementation approach.

# Oversees the design, coding, testing, debugging and documentation activities of project staff.

# Develops system definition, architecture and detailed needs analysis including hardware and software recommendations. Proposes alternative approaches and conducts evaluation and comparison.

# Collaborates with colleagues on research ideas and solutions. Works with staff and/or students providing guidance in system design and implementation.

# Serves as lead programmer or technical specialist on a research project(s). Develops or modifies large and complex system projects. Establishes project plans and schedules and monitors progress providing status reports as required. Utilizes creativity and innovation to solve conceptual programming problems raised by cutting edge research.

# Establishes and implements user training programs, tutorials and other materials necessary to present and support research results.

# Contributes text to project reports and technical papers. Takes primary responsibility for system demonstrations (preparation, setup, and delivery) at conferences and funder events.

# Makes technical presentations and demonstrations at conferences and/or meetings.

# Stays informed of new developments and technologies by reading journals and other pertinent publications, maintaining contact with vendors, and participating in professional organizations, meetings and seminars.

# Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The University reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

The University of Southern California values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity in employment.