Software Engineer

Software Engineer Location Hybrid work in Tempe, AZ : The Learning Engineering Institute (LEI) is seeking a talented and motivated Software Engineer to join our interdisciplinary team. The successful candidate will be responsible for full-stack development of web applications and software tools, including projects such as WAT, iSTART, iSTART-Early, and Writing Pal. As a key member of our team, you will collaborate closely with researchers from diverse Learning Engineering disciplines and engage with partners to develop innovative solutions that support the LEI's research and development initiatives. These projects are funded by the IES to (a) design and develop tutoring modules that support student learning and (b) explore factors influencing students' performance in comprehension and writing. The ideal candidates are interested in working in an active, collaborative environment with team members who are vested in supporting teaching and learning through innovative technology. Job Family
Information Technology Department Name
Learning Engineering Institute Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time VP Code
EXEC VP/PROVOST Scope of Search
Open Grant Funded Position
This is not a grant funded position and is not contingent on future grant funding. Salary Range
$58,000 - $90,000 per year; DOE Close Date
22-May-2024 Category
02 Essential Duties Develop and maintain web applications and software tools through rapid and iterative development cycles. Collaborate with researchers and partners across various disciplines within LEI, translating complex requirements into functional software solutions. Optimize and adapt existing software through thorough review, modification, and rewriting, including new game development, tutoring module enhancements, and experimental/research design. Provide mentorship and technical oversight to student workers, fostering an environment of learning and growth. Manage the hosting and maintenance of software applications, actively ensuring their availability, performance, and security. Utilize industry best practices and reference materials to troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges effectively. Apply natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning techniques to enhance software capabilities. Apply human-centered design and UX best practices throughout the development process to create applications that are intuitive, accessible, and crafted with user needs and experiences at the forefront. Attend weekly meetings with cross-functional team members and partners, providing updates, discussing progress, and collaborating on project-related tasks. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; OR any equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.
Desired Qualifications Evidence of a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Human Systems Engineering, or a related field, plus at least 1 year of relevant software development experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Evidence in having a strong foundation in software development principles and lifecycle, with a proven track record in full-stack web development. Experience in database management and principles (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL), including proficiency with ORM frameworks. Experience in Python and Python-based web frameworks (e.g., Django). Experience in JavaScript and front-end frameworks like Angular. Demonstrated knowledge with CI/CD, bug tracking, and version control systems (e.g., GitHub). Experience in exploring new technologies and methodologies to meet project goals. Evidence of effective communication skills with the ability to convey technical issues and solutions clearly. Experience in documentation skills. Experience in working effectively with students, providing guidance and support. Experience with research-oriented projects or in academic settings. Demonstrated knowledge of agile methodologies and collaborative development practices. Demonstrated knowledge with NLP and machine learning, and their applications in educational technology. Demonstrated knowledge of human-centered design and UX design principles. Working Environment This position is based at the Arizona State University campus, with the potential for hybrid or remote work arrangements depending on project needs and institute policies. The Learning Engineering Institute is housed on the Tempe Campus of ASU near downtown Tempe. Arizona State University is located in the Phoenix/Scottsdale metropolitan area and offers all of the amenities of a large urban/winter resort area. Activities are primarily performed in a regular, climate-controlled office setting subject to extended periods of sitting or standing. Daily use of a desktop or laptop computer is required. Ability to clearly communicate to perform essential duties. Regular review of completed tasks.
Department Statement
ASU's Learning Engineering Institute aims to transform learning environments and experiences to empower equitable student engagement, improved learning outcomes, and success across large, diverse populations of learners. Drawing on behavioral, design, computer, and data sciences, the LEI advances research and development around educational technology to develop data-informed, technologically enhanced innovations in learning and instruction. The LEI's transdisciplinary approach includes systematically collecting large-scale learning data while respecting data privacy, analyzing data to make better predictions, and rapidly iterating new approaches to improve outcomes. ASU Statement Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. ASU serves more than 100,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation's fifth largest city. ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity, and welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe. ASU is a tobacco-free university. For details visit Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. Notice of Availability of the ASU Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with federal law, ASU prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and resources. ASU's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available online at You may request a hard copy of the report by contacting the ASU PD at . Relocation Assistance - For information about schools, housing child resources, neighborhoods, hospitals, community events, and taxes, visit
Employment Verification Statement
ASU conducts pre-employment screening which may include verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Background Check Statement
ASU conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Employment is contingent upon successful passing of the background check. Instructions to Apply Application deadline is 3:00PM Arizona time on the date indicated. Please include all employment information in month/year format (e.g., 6/88 to 8/94), job title, job duties and name of employer for each position. Resume should clearly illustrate how prior knowledge and experience meets the Minimum and Desired qualifications of this position. ASU does not pay for travel expenses associated with interviews, unless otherwise indicated. Only electronic applications are accepted for this position. IMPORTANT NOTE: What is the meaning of "equivalent combination" in the minimum qualifications? It means one year of higher education or 24 credit hours, is equal to one year of experience. For example, a four year Bachelor's degree is equal to four years of experience.