Job Description
The Post
The Senior Developer plays a pivotal role in the design, development, delivery and ongoing maintenance of software systems that support the university’s strategic and operational needs. The postholder will lead development lifecycles, ensuring that software solutions are robust, secure, scalable and aligned with best practice.
Working in a rapidly evolving technological environment, the Senior Developer will take responsibility for creating, maintaining and improving systems, as well as diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues. The role requires close collaboration with stakeholders across the university, translating business requirements into effective technical solutions. As a subject matter expert, the post‑holder will also contribute to future planning, recommending improvements and innovations across the university’s digital ecosystem.
Description of Duties
* Lead the design, development, coding, security and installation of software solutions across a wide range of information systems
* Manage and oversee the full software development lifecycle of solutions
* Work with business customers to assess operational feasibility by analysing requirements, defining problems, evaluating options and proposing solutions
* Develop software solutions by engaging with stakeholders at all levels, understanding information needs, system flows, data usage and business processes
* Investigate and resolve complex problem areas across systems and integrations
* Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of the software development lifecycle
* Produce high-quality documentation including flowcharts, diagrams, layouts, code comments and clear coding patterns to support maintainability
* Supervise external developers and contractors, ensuring adherence to university coding standards and lifecycle processes
* Support technical engagement with third-party suppliers and contract managers for cloud and on-premise systems
* Define and implement system specifications, standards and programming approaches
* Provide supervision, guidance and technical leadership to developers and other colleagues
* Conduct systems analysis and recommend improvements to processes, policies and procedures
* Use security-by-design to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and security of information and systems
* Ensure systems meet required accessibility standards and support inclusive digital experiences
Essential Criteria
Qualifications and Experience
* Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in Computer Science or related technical discipline
* Substantial professional software development experience
Knowledge & Experience
* Strong proficiency in Java development and use of APIs
* Experience of modern CI/CD including version control
* Experience across the full software development lifecycle, from conception and architecture through to delivery and maintenance
* Strong understanding of professional software engineering practices, including coding standards, code reviews, source control, build processes, testing and operational support
* Ability to ensure products and web services meet standards of security, reliability, cost‑effectiveness and scalability
* Experience developing and supporting large‑scale enterprise applications
* Experience working in cross‑functional teams and contributing to product and engineering decisions
Skills & Attributes
* A customer‑focused approach to service design, delivery and evaluation
* Excellent interpersonal, communication and advocacy skills
* Strong written communication skills, with the ability to produce clear and concise documentation
* Highly organised, with the ability to manage competing priorities and work systematically in a busy environment
* Ability to gather, analyse and interpret information effectively
* Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
* High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
* Strong user‑centred approach to development
* Logical thinking and strong analytical skills
* Ability to work under pressure, independently and as part of a team
* Strong problem‑solving and communication skills
* Commitment to continuous professional development
Desirable Criteria
Knowledge & Experience
* Experience working with student records systems such as Banner or SITS
* Experience of Git, Jenkins or other relevant devops tools
* Full‑stack development experience (frontend and backend)
* Knowledge of ITIL, Prince2 or Agile
* Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., Azure, AWS) and containerisation/orchestration tools such as Kubernetes and Docker
Additional Information
*X2 positions available*
Full time
Fixed term for up to 2 years
The closing date for applications is midnight on Thursday 26 March 2026.
Interviews are expected to take place on Wednesday 01 April 2026.
There is an expectation that work will be undertaken in the UK.
This role may be eligible for sponsorship depending on candidate circumstances under SOC code 2134.
The University of Stirling recognises that a diverse workforce benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers and welcome applications from those who would contribute to further diversification of our staff and ensure that equality, diversity and inclusion is woven into the substance of the role. We strongly encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds including gender, identity, race, age, class, and ethnicity.
For a full description of duties and essential/desirable criteria please click the apply button, which will take you directly to the University Website.