Staff Software Engineer - Django - Western Governors University

If you’re passionate about building a better future for individuals, communities, and our country—and you’re committed to working hard to play your part in building that future—consider WGU as the next step in your career.Driven by a mission to expand access to higher education through online, competency-based degree programs, WGU is also committed to being a great place to work for a diverse workforce of student-focused professionals.
The university has pioneered a new way to learn in the 21st century, one that has received praise from academic, industry, government, and media leaders.
Whatever your role, working for WGU gives you a part to play in helping students graduate, creating a better tomorrow for themselves and their families.The salary range for this position takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs.At WGU, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their position, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case.
A reasonable estimate of the current range is: Pay Range: $140,200.00 - $217,200.00Job DescriptionWe are looking for an accomplished and visionary Staff Software Engineer - Django to lead the innovation and development of transformative solutions in EdTech at Western Governors University (WGU).
This role is designed for individuals with deep technical expertise, a passion for leadership, and a desire to make a significant impact on scalable, student-centric applications.As a Staff Software Engineer, you will lead the design, development, and deployment of cutting-edge full-stack applications using Python and Angular, mentor team members, and contribute to shaping the technical architecture and engineering practices that define WGU’s future.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the design and implementation of innovative, scalable features and functionality in full-stack applications using Python and Angular.Drive architectural decisions and system designs that enhance application performance, scalability, and reliability.Develop and maintain custom API frameworks to connect front-end applications and server integrations.Build modern, user-centric front-end interfaces using Angular and integrate them seamlessly with back-end systems.Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including developers, designers, product managers, and QA, to deliver impactful, user-centric solutions.Mentor and guide engineering teams on best practices, new languages, and technologies, fostering a culture of technical excellence.Identify system inefficiencies, propose innovative solutions, and oversee their implementation.Lead the prototyping and adoption of emerging technologies to improve system performance and student experience.Champion Agile development practices and ensure alignment with WGU Leadership Principles.Requirements and QualificationsEducation: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (Master’s preferred) or equivalent experience.Experience: 7+ years of professional experience in Python and Django, including building enterprise-grade applications.Extensive front-end development experience with JavaScript/TypeScript libraries or frameworks (Angular preferred) for building dynamic and responsive web interfacesProven leadership in developing and scaling full-stack applications.Experience with modern infrastructure technologies, including AWS, Docker, and containerization.Expertise in authentication protocols like OAuth 2.0 and SAML, and experience in server-to-server integrations.Strong relational database experience with MySQL, PostgreSQL, etc.Hands-on experience with test automation frameworks such as pytest.Technical Expertise: Proficiency in Git/GitHub, pipenv, and related development tools.Experience integrating third-party platforms and building custom API endpoints.Familiarity with open-source platforms like Open edX and WordPress.Nice to HaveKnowledge of LTI standards and experience in Salesforce or other enterprise systems.Experience designing systems for scalable EdTech solutions and working with advanced technologies like AI/ML in education.Expertise in modern UI/UX design principles to support highly engaging front-end experiences.#LI-LB1Position & Application DetailsFull-Time Regular Positions (classified as regular and working 40 standard weekly hours): This is a full-time, regular position (classified for 40 standard weekly hours) that is eligible for bonuses; medical, dental, vision, telehealth and mental healthcare; health savings account and flexible spending account; basic and voluntary life insurance; disability coverage; accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity supplemental coverages; legal and identity theft coverage; retirement savings plan; wellbeing program; discounted WGU tuition; and flexible paid time off for rest and relaxation with no need for accrual, flexible paid sick time with no need for accrual, 11 paid holidays, and other paid leaves, including up to 12 weeks of parental leave.How to Apply: If interested, an application will need to be submitted online.
Internal WGU employees will need to apply through the internal job board in Workday.Additional InformationDisclaimer: The job posting highlights the most critical responsibilities and requirements of the job.
It’s not all-inclusive.
Accommodations: Applicants with disabilities who require assistance or accommodation during the application or interview process should contact our Talent Acquisition team at Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
#DEISummaryLocation: Salt Lake City OfficeType: Full time