Software Engineer - Othram : Job Details

Help build a better and more robust infrastructure for justice.

Othram is revolutionizing cold and contemporary forensic investigations by seamlessly integrating laboratory science, innovative software, and optimized processes. Our proprietary technology empowers local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies—both in the United States and internationally—to overcome the most challenging forensic DNA barriers, solving cases once deemed unsolvable. More forensic genetic genealogy cases have been solved with Othram technology than any other method.

With a commitment to constant innovation, we learn from every case, refining our technology and processes to deliver better, faster, and more reliable results. At Othram, we don't just solve cases—we build a stronger foundation for justice.

We are looking for mission-driven individuals who share our passion for bringing certainty to investigations and delivering answers and justice to families. If you are obsessed with tackling the impossible, willing to work hard in uncharted territory, and eager to help build the next-generation infrastructure for justice—justice for everyone, everywhere—then Othram is the place for you.

About the Role

As a Software Engineer (Bioinformatics), you will develop and optimize software systems that power the world's most advanced forensic DNA analysis platform. This role blends web development, system programming, and algorithm design to create intuitive, high-performance tools that streamline DNA analysis workflows and enhance forensic capabilities. You will collaborate closely with scientists, developers, and law enforcement partners to ensure our tools are accurate, efficient, and scalable.

What You Get to Do Every Day

• Develop and Maintain Web Applications:
• Build intuitive, user-friendly interfaces for internal tools and external platforms using Java, Python, and modern web technologies.
• Create robust back-end systems for secure data storage, processing, and retrieval.
• Automate and Integrate Workflows:
• Develop interfaces for law enforcement to upload and manage evidence data.
• Automate workflows to efficiently process and analyze DNA evidence.
• Optimize Scalability and Performance:
• Design cloud-based or distributed systems to handle large-scale data processing.
• Optimize applications to support the world's largest forensic DNA database.
• Build and Refine Algorithms:
• Develop advanced algorithms to analyze and interpret digitized DNA data, including traits and genealogical connections.
• Enhance forensic capabilities by improving identification accuracy and automating complex analysis.
• Collaborate with Cross-Functional Teams:
• Work closely with forensic scientists, data scientists, and system programmers to integrate complex functionalities.
• Develop APIs and tools to connect front-end platforms with back-end analysis systems.
• Innovate and Improve Efficiency:
• Continuously enhance efficiency by automating data processing pipelines and reducing manual intervention.
• Optimize performance with high-performance computing solutions to handle complex analyses.

What You Bring to the Role

Required Competencies and Experience

• Strong foundation in C++ or other low-level languages.
• Demonstrable experience with bioinformatics workflows, especially metagenomic sequencing (MGS).
• Passion for interdisciplinary work at the intersection of biology and technology.
• Self-starter mentality with the ability to solve problems independently and innovate.
• Exposure to scalable systems and automation frameworks.

Preferred Competencies and Experience

• Technical Excellence: Proven ability to design, build, and deliver complex, large-scale projects.
• Proficiency in programming languages like C++, Python, or Java, with experience in performance optimization.
• Project Ownership: Track record of driving projects to completion in dynamic environments.
• Hands-On Contribution: Active involvement in solving technical challenges.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Experience working across technical and scientific teams.
• Problem-Solving Under Pressure: Examples of overcoming challenges to deliver impactful solutions.
• Proficiency with bioinformatics tools like SAMtools and experience with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS).
• Knowledge of multiple programming languages with a strong technical foundation.

What Makes This Role Unique

• Cutting-Edge Forensic Innovation:
• Develop software that powers the world's leading forensic DNA analysis platform.
• Work on projects that directly contribute to solving high-profile cases and delivering justice.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
• Collaborate with forensic scientists, data scientists, and law enforcement agencies.
• Bridge the gap between software engineering and forensic genomics.
• Impactful and Mission-Driven:
• See the real-world impact of your work in solving cases and identifying the unidentified.
• Play a crucial role in bringing closure to families and communities.
• Scalability and Growth:
• Design systems that scale with the largest forensic DNA database.
• Be part of a company that's growing rapidly and setting new standards in forensic science.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Unlimited PTO
• Opportunities for professional growth within a mission-driven organization
• Work in a collaborative and innovative environment at the forefront of forensic science

Work with the best.

At Othram, we bring together the best and brightest minds from diverse fields, united by a shared mission to build a better and more robust infrastructure for justice. Our team includes experts in forensic science, genomics, bioinformatics, software development, and investigative support, all working collaboratively to solve cases and drive innovation in the pursuit of answers and justice.

Othram is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome and celebrate individuals of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe that diversity of thought and experience drives innovation and leads to better outcomes for our mission and the communities we serve.