Programmer Consultant (SAS + Python / PySpark)

Location: United States (Remote) Work Authorization: U.S. CITIZENS ONLY (Background Check Required) Notes: Interviews are ongoing. Final offers are subject to client review and approval. Role Description / Overview This is a full-time, remote role for a Programmer Consultant specializing in SAS, Python, and PySpark. The consultant will support a government analytics and survey processing platform, working hands-on with application development, back-end systems, and performance optimization. In this role, you will collaborate closely with mathematical statisticians, software developers, and analysts under the direction of the StEPS program team. You will contribute to the development and enhancement of scalable software solutions, write efficient and well-documented Python code, and apply best practices to ensure system reliability, performance, and long-term maintainability. The ideal candidate is a strong hands-on programmer who enjoys working in a collaborative, mission-driven environment and can provide technical expertise to help deliver high-quality, production-ready solutions. Responsibilities • Perform hands-on SAS programming and performance optimization • Develop, enhance, and maintain Python-based back-end components supporting analytics and data processing workflows • Write efficient, scalable, and well-documented Python code, including PySpark for distributed data processing when applicable • Support and enhance components of the StEPS application • Work closely with StEPS programmers to understand system workflows and fine-tune system performance • Review SAS and Python code and application designs to identify opportunities for efficiency, scalability, and functional improvements • Troubleshoot and resolve SAS and Python/PySpark programming issues • Advise programmers on: • SAS programming best practices • Python and PySpark coding standards and efficiencies • Practical debugging and performance optimization techniques • Support Economic Applications Division (EAD) programmers with: • Survey-specific StEPS customizations • Other SAS- and Python-based applications supporting economic surveys • Participate in knowledge sharing and technical guidance sessions with small groups of programmers • Contribute to migration and modernization planning efforts (e.g., SAS Viya or other platforms) • Ensure all work is fully tested, documented, and production-ready Required Qualifications • U.S. Citizen (must pass government background check) • Strong hands-on experience with SAS programming • Experience with SAS performance tuning • Python programming experience • PySpark experience • Experience working in collaborative, cross-functional technical environments • Strong problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills Apply tot his job