Web Application Developer at The University of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois

Job Description:

Department



F&A ITS - Application Development



About the Department



The University of Chicago's IT Services Department is an integral component of the institution, driving technological innovation and services. As a dynamic team of professionals, we continually strive for excellence in supporting the University's mission through advanced IT solutions and a strong commitment to improving employee relations, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and aligning with the University's strategic goals.



Job Summary



The Web Application Developer is responsible for leading web application development lifecycles, including requirements gathering, solutions architecture, DevOps, product delivery, and ongoing maintenance efforts. The Developer will develop secure, scalable web applications, APIs, and systems integrations, and lead small development teams. This role requires working closely with stakeholders to meet project objectives and ensuring compliance with accessibility and security standards.



Responsibilities

• Writes secure, optimized, and maintainable code in various web programming languages for exceptional performance and scalability.


• Develops accessible web applications, APIs, and integrations that support the University's mission.


• Designs and maintains database schemas, stored procedures, and SQL code to ensure data integrity.


• Implements robust security measures for web applications, APIs, and integrations.


• Designs and develops automated scripts to support web-based products.


• Enhances existing products with new features and improvements.


• Conducts thorough code reviews and provides constructive feedback to team members.


• Maintains technical documentation for projects and applications.


• Collaborates with and occasionally leads cross-functional teams to develop accessible software solutions addressing business needs.


• Leads end-to-end testing of new web-based products and enhancements.


• Partner in vendor product quality assurance and functional testing.


• Troubleshoots and debugs software issues.


• Translates technical terminology for non-technical audiences.


• Implements and maintains CI/CD pipelines.


• Automates deployment processes to enhance operational efficiency.


• Monitors and optimizes system performance and resource utilization.


• Conducts regular security reviews, tests, and patches.


• Deploys software upgrades, hotfixes, and patches, including for web content management systems.


• Performs performance testing, troubleshooting, and bug fixing.


• Educates clients on web solutions.


• Manages stakeholder relationships.


• Contributes to business process improvements for clients and vendors.


• Reviews and assesses vendor solutions.


• Occasionally leads team meetings when management is unavailable.


• Leads small development project teams, providing guidance and support.


• Collaborates with stakeholders to define project scope, objectives, and timelines.


• Develops comprehensive project plans and allocates resources efficiently.


• Monitors project progress, identifies risks, and ensures timely delivery.


• Implements risk mitigation strategies.


• Communicates project status to stakeholders.


• Collaborates with vendors and third-party developers, and provides internal guidance for vendor proposals.


• Designs new systems, features, and tools. Solves complex problems and identifies opportunities for technical improvement and performance optimization. Reviews and tests code to ensure appropriate standards are met.


• Acts as a technical consultant and resource for faculty research, teaching, and/or administrative projects.


• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications




Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

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Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

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Certifications:




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Preferred Qualifications




Education:

• Degree in a technical field.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Proficiency in PHP, SQL, HTML/CSS, JavaScript, and software development best practices.


• Expertise in server-side scripting, database management, and security protocols.


• Experience in client-side scripting and templates.


• Proficiency with Git or another version control management system.


• Strong knowledge of DevOps principles, CI/CD pipelines, and deployment automation.


• Linux command line proficiency.


• Python or other scripting languages.


• ReactJS.


• Next.js.


• C#.


• Sitecore coding and architecture.


• Expression Engine coding and architecture.


• Azure Cloud administration.


• Search technologies (Solr, Coveo, Google).


• AWS S3.


• iOS or Android development.

Preferred Competencies

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.


• Work independently and in cross-functional teams.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.


• Lead small project teams to successful outcomes.

Working Conditions

• Office atmosphere.


• Hybrid work schedule option.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)


• Cover Letter (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.



Job Family



Information Technology



Role Impact



Individual Contributor



FLSA Status



Exempt



Pay Frequency



Monthly



Scheduled
Weekly Hours



37.5



Benefits Eligible



Yes



Drug Test Required



No



Health Screen Required



No



Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required



No



Posting Statement



The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.


Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.


We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.


All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.


The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at:http://securityreport.uchicago.edu.Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637. Apply Now