Principal Software Engineer

Job Description:

The Principal Software Engineer is a highly skilled and invaluable member of our team, responsible for the technical development and maintenance of Berklee's digital ecosystem, encompassing Beklee’s main website (www.berklee.edu), related sub-domains, the Berklee Hub, and other websites and platforms. This role requires deep technical expertise across the entire system, contributing to architecture, implementation, and product direction while ensuring scalability, security, and performance.
As the senior developer on the team, the Principal Software Engineer provides technical leadership, strategic guidance, and mentorship, including managing and mentoring a Full Stack Developer to foster a high-performing and collaborative development team. They also assess and select the most appropriate and sustainable solutions, balancing internal development, third-party platforms, and contracted services.
A key member of the Communications & Marketing team, this role brings technical expertise, industry knowledge, and informed decision-making to ensure Berklee’s digital platforms deliver exceptional experiences for the Berklee community.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Technical Leadership & Development

• Act as subject matter expert on all matters relating to software engineering, including coding, troubleshooting and product development.

• Own and guide the technical architecture of Berklee’s website ecosystem, ensuring scalability, security, and performance.

• Assess risks, identify potential problems, and provide proactive solutions without requiring external guidance.

• Maintain deep knowledge of Berklee’s technical ecosystem, ensuring seamless integrations across multiple platforms and services.

• Lead the delivery of high-quality, sustainable software solutions focused on reusability and robustness.

• Oversee the implementation of code review processes, peer programming, and internal documentation practices to maintain high code quality. Establish best practices for coding, documentation, and development workflows. 

• Evaluate third-party solutions, integrations, and contracted services to determine the best approach for digital development.

• Work closely with cross-functional teams (Communications & Marketing, IT, Enrollment, Events, etc.) to execute digital initiatives.

• Develop and execute technical strategies that align with Berklee’s digital vision and long-term goals.

System Maintenance, Security & Performance

• Administer the server, network, and hosting environment of Berklee’s digital platforms, working with hosting providers and partners.

• Conduct performance optimizations, downtime monitoring, and necessary system upgrades.

• Proactively implement security best practices and data protection measures to address risks and vulnerabilities.

Team Management & Mentorship

• Manage and mentor a Full Stack Developer, fostering professional growth and technical excellence.

• Provide technical guidance and performance feedback, ensuring high-quality development practices.
   

Required Skills and Experience

• 10+ years of progressive experience in software development and engineering.

• Deep knowledge and expertise in software development, system architecture, and web technologies.

• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to make informed decisions based on comprehensive subject matter knowledge.

• Excellent strategic and tactical thinking, aligning technical objectives with overall company goals.

• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, fostering collaboration and consensus across teams.

• Extensive understanding of software development lifecycle, best practices, and methodologies.

• Proven experience in leading and delivering high-quality software solutions.

• Strong knowledge of security principles and best practices in web application development.

• Proficiency in server administration and experience with hosting environments.

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• Demonstrated mastery of the following: PHP, Drupal, Javascript, HTML, XML, AJAX, CSS, Web Accessibility, Apache, MySQL, Ruby, Rails, Solr. 

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” employment relationship.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Equal Employment Opportunity at Berklee: 

We support an inclusive workplace where everyone excels based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job performance.  Berklee affirms that inequality is detrimental to our faculty, staff, students, and the communities we serve. Our goal is to make lasting change through our actions. Berklee is committed to providing fair and equitable consideration of all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, age, national origin, place of birth, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, or status as a member of the armed forces or veteran of the armed forces, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

As part of this commitment, Berklee will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact the Human Resources Team at [email protected] or call 617-747-2375.

Berklee is committed to increasing the diversity of our institution, community, and the curriculum. Candidates who can contribute to that goal are encouraged to apply and to identify their strengths in this area.

*Currently enrolled Berklee students are not permitted to apply for staff or faculty positions.*

Employee Type:Staff