Lead Software Engineer, LMS

Lead Software Engineer, LMS
American Public Education Inc. 

The Lead Software Engineer is a critical role in leading the design, development, support, and maintenance of web-based applications using an Learning Management System (LMS) platform, preferably BrightSpace and/or Anthology Blackboard. 

In this role, the Lead Software Engineer will have experience in leading projects, solution design, prototyping, development, testing, and deployments with LMS and supporting application platforms.  She/he will collaborate with integration and classroom support SMEs to improve the classroom experience for students and faculty.

The Lead Software Engineer will provide technical thought leadership and hands-on solutions design and project delivery that may include custom/COTS applications, on-premises/Cloud, PCI/PII, and mobile/API-led constructs that compass reliability, scalability, and security for a 24x7 enterprise. She/he will have broad experience and deep understanding of application development with .Net and Java based technologies, service-oriented architecture and integration, SDLC practices, and Cloud platforms.  This candidate will possess excellent leadership skills, ability to influence stakeholders, and hands-on practice of enterprise LMS principles, both on-premises and Cloud.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and development of custom plugins, integrations, and features for the Brightspace and/or Anthology Blackboard LMS platform using a variety of programming languages (e.g., Java, JavaScript, HTML, CSS).
• Collaborate with instructional designers and subject matter experts to develop and implement effective e-learning solutions that meet the needs of various audiences.
• Integrate Brightspace/Anthology with other systems and applications, including Boomi, using APIs and other integration technologies.
• Conduct prototyping, integration testing, performance optimization, and scalability testing for LMS applications.
• Ensure the security and compliance of LMS applications, including change management and vendor management processes.
• Develop technical specifications, system architecture, and deployment plans for LMS operations and new initiatives.
• Apply solution design methodologies and best practices to develop and implement innovative and effective e-learning solutions.
• Conduct research on emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in e-learning and apply them to enhance the LMS platform.
• Lead and support ADA and Digital Accessibility initiatives.
• Analyze and decompose complex problems into potential technical solutions for LMS applications.
• Participate in project planning, estimation, and documentation efforts as needed.
• Recommends business processes and design options to optimize technical solutions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• In-depth experience developing custom plugins, integrations, and features for the Brightspace and/or Anthology Blackboard LMS platform, including leveraging APIs and other integration technologies.
• Familiarity with Brightspace SDK, including access to Brightspace APIs, client libraries, tools, samples, and walkthroughs
• Knowledge of Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) standards
• Strong proficiency in programming languages commonly used in web development, such as Java, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
• Expertise in integrating LMS with other systems and applications, such as CRM systems, student information systems, and payment processing systems, using REST APIs, SOAP APIs, and other integration technologies.
• Knowledge of instructional design principles and e-learning best practices, and experience implementing these principles to design and develop effective e-learning solutions.
• Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and debug complex technical issues related to the LMS platform and integrations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including instructional designers, subject matter experts, and project managers, using agile development methodologies and best practices.
• Ability to follow Web accessibility (Section 508 and Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI)) standards.
• Experience with integration platforms, APIs, and the ability to design and develop custom integration solutions to meet specific business requirements.
• In-depth knowledge of SQL and relational database management systems (RDBMS), such as SQL Server, MySQL, or Oracle, and expertise in writing complex SQL queries to retrieve and mani