Front End Developer

Description

Description

This position will serve as the primary front end web developer for the Libraries. As front-end developer, this position will collaborate with Marketing and Communications to write and develop code based on mockups from designers for web frameworks and applications in use by the Libraries. Furthermore, this position is responsible for ensuring that all websites adhere to the University’s style guide, developing and maintaining web themes for frameworks including Drupal and WordPress, and ensuring that all websites meet the university’s standards for accessibility. The position will also collaborate with other developers in Digital Initiatives to design and document front-end best practices and ensure that all websites are responsive. As part of code development, the position will participate in regression and performance testing of the Libraries’ websites and web applications to ensure an optimal user experience.

Responsibilities & Duties

• Web Development / Programming
  • Develop and maintain web themes for WordPress, Drupal, and other third party applications.
  • Extend open source and commercial web applications and services to meet the needs of the Libraries.
  • Coordinate with other developers to create and improve custom applications and integrations.
  • Provide ongoing upgrades, enhancements, security patches, and bug fixes to applications and services.
  • Ensure all library web applications and websites are responsive, accessible, and perform in a user-centered manner.
  • Oversee implementation and usage tracking with Google Analytics and Google Tag Manager.
  • Perform regression and performance testing of web applications.
  • Implement methods to improve search engine relevance.
• Collaboration
  • Collaborate on critical, high impact, and urgent projects.
  • Provides training and supports the team with front-end knowledge.
  • Researches new and emerging technologies, practices, vendors, and features by monitoring industry trends.
  • Performs work in a team environment using agreed upon workflows, understood best practices, collaborations methods to solve project-related problems, and code repositories to share work.
  • Coordinates with other team members and library units on usability and accessibility requirements.
  • Participate in campus discussions for web initiatives.
• Documentation and Research
  • Creates and maintains documentation on applications and websites the position develops.
  • Maintain and update the system architecture documentation.
  • Designs, collects, analyzes metrics, and creates reports for dissemination to team and senior staff.
  • Creates and maintains security reports for the applications the position oversees.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 1 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education & relevant experience.
• Proficient in web programming skills including JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS3.
• Knowledge of content management systems including WordPress or Drupal.
• Knowledge of web accessibility guidelines and best practices.
• Knowledge of search engine optimization and semantic web technologies.
• Knowledge of distributed version control including Git.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both oral and written.
• Ability to problem solve and analyze complex problems.
• Ability to learn new skills and technologies as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5 years web development experience.
• Experience with software development in an academic library or higher education setting.
• Knowledge of RESTful APIs.
• Knowledge of PHP templating such as Twig and Blade.
• Knowledge of Linux server environments and unix shell skills.
• Knowledge of server-side programming languages such as PHP, JavaScript (server-side), Ruby, or Python.
• Knowledge of databases and data storage technologies like SQL, MariaDB, JSON, or MongoDB.

Environment

The UT Libraries champions diversity in collections and staffing. The University of Tennessee is committed to creating a welcoming environment. More information about how we put our principles of civility and community into action is available at https://www.lib.utk.edu/diversity/.

Application Procedures

A background check is required prior to hiring.  In order to be considered for candidacy, you must submit a cover letter addressing the above qualifications and a current resume.  

For assistance or questions about using the UT online application system, contact University of Tennessee Human Resources:

105 Student Services Building, Knoxville, TN 37996-0213

Office Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

(865) 974-6642