Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.
SARA is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and experienced Software and Business Applications Developer with working knowledge of finance to support activities out of our Colorado Springs, CO location. The candidate will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-standing programs and new programs supporting our customers.
This role develops software applications, web interfaces, database/SQL solutions, and automated workflows that support business and finance operations. A primary focus is supporting a designated business organization within SARA by developing and improving applications that meet its reporting needs. The developer works with cross-functional teams using custom code and Microsoft Power Platform tools as appropriate.
The ideal candidate combines software development and database/SQL skills with working knowledge of finance and a practical understanding of business needs. Experience with AI-assisted coding (including "vibe coding") and knowledge of large language models (LLMs) are preferred, with an emphasis on reviewing, testing, and understanding generated code.
Core Responsibilities:
- Serve as the primary application development and reporting partner for a designated business organization within SARA, working with leadership, finance, and program teams to understand business needs and prioritize solutions
- Develop interactive applications and reporting solutions that bring financial and planning data into HTML-based tools and Power BI reports and dashboards, supporting budget and forecast analysis, scenario planning, and visibility into revenue, expenses, and project costs
- Build and maintain SQL queries, data models, and integrations that connect financial, planning, and operational systems to applications and reports, enabling users to explore data and evaluate business performance
- Partner with business users to validate calculations, reconcile results to source systems, and resolve data quality issues so applications and reports provide reliable information for decisions
- Improve existing applications and workflows to reduce manual reporting and data preparation, simplify the user experience, and respond to changing business needs; use Microsoft Power Platform and AI-assisted coding where appropriate
- Deliver secure, maintainable solutions through testing, code review, version control, and adherence to company development and data handling practices
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, or Business Analytics
- 4 - 7 years of experience in software development, business application development, or a related field
- Hands-on application and web development experience using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, including integration with APIs or business data sources
- Strong database and SQL skills, including relational data modeling, joins, queries, stored procedures, and troubleshooting data issues
- Working knowledge of finance and accounting, including financial statements, budgeting, forecasting, project costing, and variance analysis
- Ability to translate business and reporting needs into practical technical solutions and communicate effectively with users and stakeholders
- Experience testing, debugging, documenting, and maintaining software applications, with attention to data accuracy and security
- US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain TS DoD security clearance
- May require light physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
- Working environment is indoor, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist
Preferred Qualifications:
- 8 - 10 years of experience in software development, business application development, or a related field
- Experience with AI-assisted coding or vibe coding, including prompting, refining generated code, and validating results; working knowledge of LLM capabilities, limitations, and application integration
- Experience with Microsoft Power Platform tools and SharePoint for business applications, workflow automation, or reporting; relevant Microsoft or Azure certifications are a plus
- Experience with Microsoft SQL Server/T-SQL, query performance tuning, ETL processes, and integration with ERP, accounting, or project cost systems
- Experience with Python, C#, PowerShell, or similar languages, modern development environments, and responsive, accessible web interfaces
- Experience developing financial dashboards or applications and integrating AI-enabled features into business solutions
SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:
- Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
- A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
- Tuition & certification reimbursement
- Flexible work schedules
- Discretionary Employee bonuses
- 401(k) match/profit sharing
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Pay Range
Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $100,000 to $150,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.
Application Deadline: December 12, 2026
SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, Business Analytics, or a related field
- 4 to 7 years of experience in software development, business application development, or a related field
- Hands-on application and web development experience with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, including API or business data integrations
- Strong database and SQL skills, including relational data modeling, joins, queries, stored procedures, and troubleshooting data issues
- Working knowledge of finance and accounting, including financial statements, budgeting, forecasting, project costing, and variance analysis
- Ability to translate business and reporting needs into technical solutions and communicate effectively with users and stakeholders
- Experience testing, debugging, documenting, and maintaining software applications with attention to data accuracy and security
- US citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a TS Department of Defense security clearance
- Ability to perform light physical effort, including standing, sitting, hand use, and carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
- Experience with AI-assisted coding or vibe coding, prompting, refining generated code, and validating results
- Working knowledge of LLM capabilities, limitations, and application integration
- Experience with Microsoft Power Platform and SharePoint for business applications, workflow automation, or reporting
- Microsoft or Azure certifications
- 8 to 10 years of experience in software development, business application development, or a related field
- Experience with Microsoft SQL Server, T-SQL, query performance tuning, ETL, and ERP, accounting, or project cost system integrations
- Experience with Python, C#, PowerShell, modern development environments, and responsive accessible web interfaces
- Experience developing financial dashboards or applications and integrating AI-enabled features into business solutions
What We Do
Scientific Applications & Research Associates (SARA), Inc. develops specialized technologies and engineering solutions for defense and homeland-security customers. Its work spans radio-frequency and electromagnetic protection, pulsed power, acoustics, and threat warning, along with testing, modeling, rapid prototyping, and manufacturing. The company also provides measurement and analysis systems, RF shielding, and sensing-and-warning technologies, tailoring products and services to customer applications and operational needs.
