Digital Library Software Engineer

Harvard University - Cambridge, MA

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Cambridge, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Digital Library Software Engineer (DLSE) at Harvard University is responsible for supporting the development of the next-generation Digital Repository Service (DRS) and its integration within the existing software ecosystem. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams throughout all phases of software projects, including requirements analysis, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. The DLSE will lead the design and development of innovative and integrated software solutions, ensuring scalability, security, and reliability in handling complex data sets.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with project and engineering teams to design and build scalable, secure, and reliable software for data exchange and transformation.
• Participate in the software development life cycle, proposing technical solutions to meet functional requirements.
• Write well-designed, efficient, and scalable code.
• Maintain code and API documentation.
• Actively participate in application design, implementation, and deployment.
• Re-engineer legacy applications to meet current quality standards.
• Design and write REST APIs for new and legacy applications.
• Integrate automated testing and documentation into the coding process.
• Assist in activities leading up to the new DRS launch and switch-over from the old system.
• Identify opportunities to improve and simplify the applications portfolio and implement enhancements.
• Contribute to the creation and maturing of software development best practices and new technologies.
• Act as a technical liaison to internal and external clients and mentor junior staff.

Requirements

• Minimum of five years' post-secondary education or relevant work experience.
• Proven work experience with complex, highly asynchronous software architectures and high-volume applications.
• Strong Python and Docker experience.
• Familiarity with Flask, WSGI, and Celery frameworks at scale.
• Knowledge of REST API principles.
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines.
• Experience or interest in community-supported, open source software.
• Java experience to migrate legacy applications from Java to Python.
• Excellent team play and communication skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Completion of Harvard IT Academy specified foundational courses (or external equivalent) preferred.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year, 12 accrued sick days, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess, 3 personal days, and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program and Tuition Reimbursement for eligible courses.
• Professional Development programs and classes at little or no cost.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking and public transportation passes.
• Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, and discounts on services.