IT Applications Developer – Senior/Specialist

Description

Are you energized by solving complex technical problems and building stable and scalable systems that employers, customers, and agency staff can rely on to support critical processes? Would you thrive in a role where your coding expertise and technical leadership will help shape the tools that support members across Washington State? If you excel at untangling difficult technical challenges, collaborating across teams, and consistently delivering reliable software solutions, then the role of IT Applications Developer – Senior/Specialist at the Department of Retirement Systems may be the ideal next step for you.

Duties

We are searching for a skilled IT Applications Developer to serve as a technical lead within the Web Applications Team at the Department of Retirement Systems. As lead developer, you will play a central role in integrating existing systems with DRS's new Neospin platform, part of our mission-critical Pension Modernization Project to replace a decades-old mainframe system. In addition, you will provide ongoing architectural direction and hands-on development for other business-critical systems.

Some of What You'll Do Includes:

• Serving as the primary technical lead for the integration of the existing ePortal and Online Account Access systems with Neospin pension administration software, as well as leading technical design, development, and maintenance of other core web applications.
• Developing solutions using tools such as Visual Studio C#, SQL Server, HTML, JavaScript, jQuery, Bootstrap, Web Services, JSON, and Bizagi BPMS, applying industry best practices throughout.
• Researching and evaluating emerging technologies and industry trends, translating technical options into business terms to help leaders make informed decisions about the agency's technology direction.
• Conducting formal code reviews before application changes move to production, mentoring and coaching technical team by providing guidance and technical knowledge, adhering to best practices, and fostering a collaborative and growth-focused environment. 
• Managing the full software development lifecycle, including building and releasing code across development, QA, testing, and production environments, and maintaining Git repositories.
• Developing and communicating IT standards, governance, and procedures that guide consistent, secure, and resource-conscious use of technology across the agency.
• Collaborating with network and database administrators, business analysts, and external stakeholders to coordinate system releases and resolve complex technical issues.
• Maintaining and administering security permissions across systems, including Git and SQL Server access, ensuring access remains appropriate as roles or employment status change.

Schedule and Telework Information: The incumbent of this position may be eligible to work a flexible, compressed and/or alternate work week schedule. Any schedule of other than 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, is at the discretion of the team leader and must be approved by the Appointing Authority. Some evening and weekend work may be necessary to perform key processes and/or updates outside of standard business hours.

After effectively demonstrating the ability to perform work independently, incumbent may be eligible to telework on a full-time basis, at the discretion of the Appointing Authority and with a telework agreement in place. The ability to work remotely is dependent on the nature of the tasks and projects assigned and the presence of a remote work environment that is safe and has an appropriate level of reliable connectivity. You must live within a reasonable commuting distance (within two (2) hours including commute time) to the DRS building in Tumwater, WA, and must be willing and able to adjust your telework schedule, whenever necessary, to complete work assignments, attend mandatory meetings, trainings, etc., at the DRS facility.

Qualifications

What we’re looking for (required qualifications): Experience for qualifications can be gained through various combinations of professional employment, education, and volunteer/personal experience. Experience can be concurrent: 

•  Expert-level software engineering experience working with complex systems projects that are strategic in nature.
• A broad background in technology platforms and computing environments.

The above is typically gained from seven (7) years of professional experience. A Bachelor's degree with major emphasis in information technology, computer science, or related field may substitute for two (2) years of experience. 
 
In addition, qualified candidates should have the following experience:

• Proven experience developing and enhancing applications using Visual Studio, .net or similar frameworks, including C#;
• Proven experience developing web applications using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, ASP.NET using frameworks like MVC, JSON, API Web Services, Entity framework, OR similar technologies like Java, Angular, Bootstrap, etc.;
• Experience testing or overseeing testing of applications;
• Experience with database development and performing data analysis; and
• Experience administering Git Repositories or similar source code repository.

The above is typically gained from three (3) years of professional experience.

AND

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including demonstrated ability to clearly explain complex ideas; 
• Excellent critical thinking skills and problem solving skills; 
• Demonstrated ability to create and/or interpret complex business process maps;
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal and customer service skills 
• Demonstrated proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint (version 2016 or newer); and
• Demonstrated proficiency in the following competency areas:

Accountability
Understands the link between job responsibilities and organizational goals. Manages their own performance to meet expectations and achieve expected results. Holds self accountable for decisions, actions and behaviors.
 
Adaptability/Flexibility
Maintains effectiveness when experiencing major changes in work tasks or the work environment. Adapts easily to changing business needs, adjusting effectively to work within new structures, processes, requirements, or cultures to achieve successful solutions. Demonstrates openness to new and different ways of doing things.
 
Attention to Detail
Plans and organizes time and resources efficiently. Follows processes and procedures in the completion of work. Carefully monitors the details and quality of work and double-checks work product to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Independence/Self-Management
Is a self-starter; demonstrates initiative and motivation in completing their assigned workload. Delivers on commitments made to others. Maintains focus and effectiveness; is a visible role model to others.

Problem Solving
Analyzes problem to identify the root cause(s). Evaluates possible courses of action, uses reason, logic and creativity to reach conclusions. Develops timely, effective solutions that take into consideration alternatives, risks and consequences in relation to organizational goals, resources and constraints.

Results Orientation/Initiative
Focuses on results and desired outcomes and how to best achieve them. Identifies what needs to be done and proactively does it before being asked to or required by the situation. Takes on responsibilities and challenges; plans ahead for upcoming problems or opportunities and takes appropriate actions.

Learning and Growth - Demonstrates a growth mindset by actively seeking opportunities to learn, improve, and expand capabilities. Displays curiosity about new ideas and perspectives and an openness to innovation, change, and feedback. Takes responsibility for personal learning by identifying and communicating needs and challenges, and applying new knowledge to navigate systems, tools, and processes. Reflects on experiences to identify strengths and areas for improvement, using learning to make government programs and processes more efficient and effective in serving the people of Washington. 

Meeting the Needs of Others - Demonstrates empathy, flexibility, and responsiveness when interacting with customers, colleagues, and community members. Understands that others have varied needs and perspectives and adapts communication and actions accordingly. Builds relationships and collaborates to increase access, opportunity, and positive outcomes for all. Balances and considers all parties’ needs when developing solutions, ensuring equity, respect, and service excellence in every interaction. 

• Proficiency and demonstrated experience utilizing JQuery, Bootstrap or other related JavaScript Framework, Web Api’s utilizing JSON, and Bizagi BPMS or other BPMS.
• Demonstrated experience being an effective leader of development teams.

Supplemental Information

Be sure to read this entire section – We promise, it’ll be helpful!

How to Apply: Interested applicants who meet the qualifications and competencies in this announcement are encouraged to apply. 

• To be considered for this position, please be sure to attach the following to your online application: 
  1. A cover letter clearly describing how your knowledge, skills and abilities align with the job duties and qualifications of this position. 
  2. A chronological resume outlining your experience to-date. Please keep in mind that professional or verifiable volunteer experience may be relevant. 
     Applications without a cover letter and resume will not be considered.
• Be sure to complete all sections of the on-line application and answer all supplemental questions. The work history section of the on-line application should be completed fully. Application fields that say "see resume/attachment" will not be considered.
  
  Only those applicants whose background and experience most closely match the qualifications and competencies
  of this position will be considered for this opportunity.

References, Personnel File Review, and Background Checks

• If you are a preferred candidate for this position, a professional reference from your current or most recent supervisor will be required in addition to at least one additional professional reference.
• If you are a current or recent state employee, we will also review your personnel file as part of our selection process.
• A job offer is contingent upon completion of a background check that includes a criminal record review.

Work Authorization

• Candidates who are offered a job with DRS must possess work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future;
• DRS complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements of the federal employment eligibility verification form, I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form on the first day of employment.
• DRS does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
• Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

Certified Candidate Pool

• This recruitment may be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.
  
  

DRS offers a generous benefits package that includes membership in the Public Employees Retirement System, health, dental and vision coverage and participation in the Deferred Compensation Program. Also, as a public service employee you may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness. (See the Benefits tab at the top of this post for more information).

Other perks include: 

• Flexible work schedules
• Infants at Work Program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Access to LinkedIn Learning
• Commitment to team member safety and wellness
• Community involvement and charitable giving opportunities
• Commute Trip Reduction Program
• Free Parking and EV Chargers available