BFF-AFIRMS Software/Full Stack Developer Full-time

Software Developer For BFF-AFIRMS Initiative

This position has a term length of two years.

Location – This role is in-person at North Campus, Edmonton.

Position Summary

BFF-AFIRMS (Best Future Forest: Advanced Forest Genomics and Integrative Resource Management System) is a transformative initiative aimed at digitalizing forest resource management and tree improvement in Alberta (AB), Canada (CA). This is a joint effort across the Government of Alberta (GoA), forest industry partners of Tree Improvement of Alberta, University of Alberta (UofA, CA), and Oklahoma State University (USA). The initiative seeks to integrate high-throughput genotyping, predictive analytics, and decision-making science to ensure responsible stewardship of forest genetic resources in the face of climate challenges and the growing demand for sustainable forest ecosystems and products.

Working with and reporting to the Data Scientist, the Software Developer will assist in creating the frontend web interface and backend computing framework for the current project (BFF-AFIRMS). They will work closely with BFF-AFIRMS team members and end-users to implement new features, collect feedback, and design training to support the user's business requirements.

Responsibilities

Frontend and Backend Development (50%)

• Write frontend code (Javascript, HTML, CSS) for web applications to develop new features in the user interface and improve the user experience (UI/UX).
• Write backend code (Perl, Bash, R) that integrates the user interface with a relational database (PostgreSQL) and underlying statistical models (Genomic Selection, Climate, Growth and Yield).
• Write documentation and unit tests, leveraging Continuous Integration (CI) for end-to-end integration tests.
• Version control with Git and GitHub. File issues, submit and review pull requests, manage and communicate releases.
• Deploy applications to a Linux server using Docker containers.
• Research options to upgrade legacy code to more modern/data science-friendly frameworks.

User Support and Training (40%)

• Design, test, and implement User Acceptance Training (UAT) for 10-50 users.
• Collect user feedback to evaluate whether the database meets their business requirements.
• Create tutorials that are representative of Tree Improvement user workflows.
• Automate stress tests to simulate the typical load of multiple concurrent users.

Security and Account Management (10%)

• Manage user accounts and access with an Identity and Access Management (IAM) service.
• Audit and upgrade software dependencies to limit vulnerabilities.
• Ensure secure communication between applications and databases using HTTPS/SSL.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Computer Science, IT Security, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2+ years with the following work experience:
• Developing, shipping, and supporting complex software products in a team environment.
• Frontend development languages: JavaScript, HTML, CSS.
• UI/UX design (User Interface and User Experience).
• Experience with integrating with and/or modernizing legacy web frameworks.
• Backend/data-science languages and tools: Bash, Perl, R, Python, Git.
• Ability to learn new languages, frameworks, and domains.
• Designing and implementing client training: User Acceptance Testing (UAT).
• Linux systems and containerization: Ubuntu, Docker, Windows Subsystem for Linux.
• Writing documentation and tests, from unit-level through to end-to-end integration.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with a strong drive to comprehensively understand and troubleshoot issues.
• Security and network protocols: Identify and Access Management (IAM), Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Authentication and Authorization (OAuth2, OIDC).
• Creative with an ability to investigate new ideas.
• Excellent communication (oral and written), interpersonal, organizational, problem-solving and time management skills; meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Application Instructions

Click “Apply Now” to submit your cover letter and CV/resume.

This position is subject to all applicable terms and conditions of the collective agreement between the Governors of the University of Alberta and the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package.

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all First Peoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people – from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L'Université de l'Alberta s'engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.