Software Technical Lead Developer (Contingent)

Job Responsibilities

Lead the design, development, and delivery of custom software applications supporting clinical and research initiatives.
Provide technical leadership across the full software development lifecycle, including architecture, design, development, testing, and deployment.
Develop and maintain APIs and integration services to enable interoperability across enterprise systems and external platforms.
Guide the use of modern development frameworks and technologies, including TypeScript, Python, and front-end frameworks such as React and Vue.
Oversee containerization and deployment strategies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) to support scalable and resilient systems.
Lead system integration and migration efforts across legacy and modern platforms.
Implement and promote DevOps practices, including CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and infrastructure as code.
Collaborate with program leadership, architects, QA, and operations teams to ensure alignment with program goals and technical standards.
Mentor and support development team members, promoting best practices in coding, documentation, and system design.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in software development, including full-stack application development.
• Experience with programming languages and frameworks such as TypeScript, Python, and modern JavaScript frameworks (e.g., React, Vue.js).
• Experience developing APIs using technologies such as Java and Node.js.
• Experience with containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience supporting enterprise system integrations and migrations.
• Experience working within Agile, Scrum, and/or DevOps delivery models.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or a related field.
• Experience supporting NIH, HHS, or other federal health agencies.
• Familiarity with cloud-native architectures (e.g., AWS, Azure) and microservices-based design.
• Experience with data interoperability standards (e.g., FHIR, RESTful APIs) in healthcare or research environments.
• Experience with CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, GitHub Actions, GitLab CI).
• Knowledge of security best practices in application development (e.g., OAuth2, role-based access control).
• Experience working in regulated environments (e.g., GxP, 21 CFR Part 11).
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to lead technical decision-making in complex environments.

Requirements

• Westat offers a well-rounded and comprehensive benefits program focused on wellness and work/life balance.
• Subject to plan requirements, employees may participate in: Employee Stock Ownership Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Paid Parental Leave, Vacation Leave, Sick Leave, Holiday Leave, Professional Development, Health Advocate, Employee Assistance Program, Travel Accident Insurance, Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Short Term Disability Insurance, Long Term Disability Insurance, Life and AD&D Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance, Supplemental Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Account, Health Savings Account.

Pay Range

The anticipated salary range for this position is $114,200 - $135,000 and will commensurate with experience.