Principal Application Developer - Day Shift

The Principal Software Developer is a senior technical leader responsible for designing and delivering complex, high-impact software solutions that support GIA’s lab operations and their integration with external systems. The role exists to provide deep technical expertise, architectural leadership, and innovation while partnering closely with researchers, solution analysts, and business stakeholders.

This position drives the creation of scalable, secure, and maintainable software through modern cloud, microservices, and data-driven technologies. Ultimately, this role ensures that GIA’s cutting-edge research and operational systems are supported by best-in-class software engineering practices.

Essential Duties

Design, build, and maintain complex database and microservices-based solutions using modern cloud and web technologies. Lead the development of Lab applications supporting new business initiatives Build and maintain RESTful (and where applicable GraphQL) web services for system integration. Code, test, and implement software using high-performance, loosely coupled architectures with strong test coverage.

Establish and maintain technical standards, architecture patterns, and best practices across teams. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define requirements and deliver high-quality user experiences. Mentor and provide technical guidance to engineers and developers on design and architecture. Proactively review systems for improvements, automation, and reliability; conduct RCAs when needed.

Participate in Agile ceremonies and continuous improvement activities; perform other duties as assigned. Competencies

• Advanced knowledge of OO design, architecture, and integration patterns.
• Deep expertise in backend (Spring, Micronaut preferred) and frontend development (Typescript, React/NestJS preferred).
• Strong understanding of OWASP security principles and authentication/authorization design.
• Expertise in relational and NoSQL databases and data integration.
• Experience working with AWS required.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to influence without authority and lead by example.
• Commitment to code quality, testing, and documentation.
• Ability to work effectively in diverse, collaborative environments.

Qualifications

Education

Qualifications and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field. Previous Work Experience, including Leadership Experience
• Minimum of 6+ years of IT experience, with at least 4 years building front-end and/or back-end systems; demonstrated technical leadership. Technical / Domain Specific / Functional Experience and Knowledge
• Strong experience with microservices, REST/GraphQL APIs, cloud technologies, containerization (Docker), CI/CD, and DevOps practices. GIA or G&J Industry Specific Experience and Knowledge
• Familiarity with laboratory, grading, or operational technology environments is preferred but not required. Critical Experiences (including challenges that were overcome, proven skills, demonstrated outcomes, etc.)
• Proven track record of delivering complex, cross-system solutions; mentoring engineers; and designing secure, scalable architectures. Disclaimer: This job description indicates in general terms, the type and level of work performed as well as the typical responsibilities of employees in this classification and it may be changed by management at any time. Other duties may also apply. Nothing in this job description changes the at-will employment relationship existing between the Company and its employees.