Sr. Applications Developer (Engineer/Programmer)

Join a high-impact technical modernization effort supporting the development of a critical monthly economic release. This onsite Senior Applications Developer role offers the opportunity to help rebuild legacy data and code infrastructure using modern tools while contributing to reliable, time-sensitive production workflows.
Responsibilities

• Support the modernization of data and application infrastructure for a monthly statistical release.
• Develop, test, debug, and refine software to improve reliability, efficiency, and maintainability.
• Work closely with economists, research staff, data engineers, analysts, and outside contractors.
• Build and strengthen programming capabilities in legacy and modern environments, including FAME, R, Python, SQL-based systems, and DuckDB.
• Assist with data transfers, validation, and coordination with internal IT and public information teams.
• Analyze system requirements, translate detailed designs into working software, and document solutions clearly.
• Support software configuration management and follow established SDLC practices.
• Contribute to the ongoing production of a mission-critical release with a strong focus on accuracy and reliability.

Skills

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, physics, economics, or a related field.
• At least seven years of programmer/analyst experience developing software within SDLC environments.
• Strong programming experience in R or Python.
• Working knowledge of database systems, especially SQL-based platforms.
• Ability to quickly understand data structures, workflows, and technical nuances.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated reliability and comfort working on time-sensitive projects.
• U.S. citizenship and the ability to work onsite in the Washington, DC area five days per week.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with FAME software.
• Familiarity with modern data tooling such as DuckDB.
• Interest in using emerging technologies, including AI-assisted development tools, in a thoughtful and responsible way.
• Experience creating documentation, flow charts, or other design artifacts.
• Background supporting production systems with recurring delivery deadlines.

Horizontal is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace where diverse perspectives are valued and everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds who meet the qualifications to apply and join a team that values respect, collaboration, and equity.
By applying for this position, you acknowledge and agree that Horizontal Talent may contact you regarding your application using automated technology, including phone calls, SMS/text messages, or email, which may be delivered by our virtual AI recruiter, Alex.
Please apply through this online posting or by visiting our Job Board at Applications will be accepted for 4 weeks. For those that join the team, we offer competitive compensation and benefits including medical, dental, vision, and retirement. Check out all we have to offer and how you can become part of the Horizontal Talent Team. The pay range for this role is $40 - $77 per hour based on qualifications and experience.