Job Description

If you’re passionate about building a better future for individuals, communities, and our country—and you’re committed to working hard to play your part in building that future—consider WGU as the next step in your career.

Driven by a mission to expand access to higher education through online, competency-based degree programs, WGU is also committed to being a great place to work for a diverse workforce of student-focused professionals. The university has pioneered a new way to learn in the 21st century, one that has received praise from academic, industry, government, and media leaders. Whatever your role, working for WGU gives you a part to play in helping students graduate, creating a better tomorrow for themselves and their families.

The salary range for this position takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs.

At WGU, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their position, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is:

Grade: Technical 410

Pay Range: $143,700.00 - $222,700.00

Job Description

The Senior Software Engineer is responsible for the research, design, development, analysis, testing, and implementation of software operating or application systems. They communicate project information to client, project manager, or other design personnel working on projects. They maintain good working relationships with clients and staff. They write and maintains complete documentation. They support team members and ensures established goals and deadlines are met. They keep management informed of status and significant problems.

• At Western Governors University, we’re building modern digital platforms that help expand access to education at scale. We’re seeking a highly skilled Senior Backend-Focused Full Stack Software Engineer to design, build, and scale modern applications and distributed systems that power exceptional student and employee experiences.
• This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives on solving complex backend challenges while still contributing across the full stack when needed. You’ll play a key role in architecting scalable backend services using Java and Python while partnering with frontend and mobile teams working in Angular and Flutter.
• You’ll collaborate closely with product managers, architects, DevOps engineers, and engineering leadership to deliver secure, reliable, and high-performing solutions. This is an opportunity to influence technical direction, lead engineering initiatives, and help modernize platforms using cloud-native technologies and engineering best practices.
• Job Description
• What You’ll DoDesign, develop, and maintain scalable backend services, APIs, and distributed systems using Java and PythonLead backend architecture decisions focused on scalability, reliability, security, and performanceBuild and maintain RESTful APIs and microservices that support web and mobile applicationsCollaborate with frontend engineers working in Angular and Flutter to deliver seamless end-to-end solutionsOptimize database performance, system integrations, and application reliabilityImplement cloud-native solutions and contribute to infrastructure automation initiativesDrive engineering best practices around testing, CI/CD, observability, and secure software developmentMentor engineers through code reviews, technical leadership, and architectural guidanceTroubleshoot and resolve complex production issues across the application stackParticipate in technical strategy discussions and platform modernization initiativesContribute to engineering standards, documentation, and continuous improvement effortsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field, or equivalent practical experience 5+ years of professional software engineering experienceStrong backend development expertise with Java and PythonExperience building scalable APIs, microservices, and distributed systemsExperience with Spring Boot, FastAPI, Flask, Django, or similar backend frameworksSolid understanding of full-stack application architectureWorking knowledge of Angular, TypeScript, and frontend integration patternsExperience with relational and NoSQL databasesExperience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCPStrong understanding of CI/CD pipelines, containerization, and DevOps practicesExperience with Docker and KubernetesStrong troubleshooting, performance tuning, and debugging skillsExcellent communication, collaboration, and technical leadership abilitiesPreferred QualificationsExperience with event-driven architectures and message queuesExperience with GraphQL and API gateway technologiesExperience building high-availability or enterprise-scale systemsFamiliarity with Flutter mobile application architecturesExperience with infrastructure-as-code tools such as TerraformExperience with monitoring and observability platformsPassion for scalable system design and backend optimizationExperience working in agile product delivery environmentsWhat Success Looks LikeBuilding scalable, reliable, and secure backend systemsDelivering high-performance APIs and distributed servicesImproving platform stability, observability, and maintainabilityProviding strong technical leadership and mentorshipDriving architectural improvements and engineering excellenceContributing to a collaborative and high-performing engineering cultureWhy Join Us?Opportunity to solve complex engineering challenges at scaleModern cloud-native technology stack and engineering practicesCollaborative, mission-driven, and engineering-focused cultureCompetitive compensation and comprehensive benefitsFlexible work environmentCareer growth opportunities in architecture and technical leadershipThe opportunity to help transform lives through education

Position & Application Details

Full-Time Regular Positions (classified as regular and working 40 standard weekly hours): This is a full-time, regular position (classified for 40 standard weekly hours) that is eligible for bonuses; medical, dental, vision, telehealth and mental healthcare; health savings account and flexible spending account; basic and voluntary life insurance; disability coverage; accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity supplemental coverages; legal and identity theft coverage; retirement savings plan; wellbeing program; discounted WGU tuition; and flexible paid time off for rest and relaxation with no need for accrual, flexible paid sick time with no need for accrual, 11 paid holidays, and other paid leaves, including up to 12 weeks of parental leave.

How to Apply: If interested, an application will need to be submitted online. Internal WGU employees will need to apply through the internal job board in Workday.

Additional Information

Disclaimer: The job posting highlights the most critical responsibilities and requirements of the job. It’s not all-inclusive.

Accommodations: Applicants with disabilities who require assistance or accommodation during the application or interview process should contact our Talent Acquisition team at recruiting@wgu.edu.

Equal Employment Opportunity: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic as required by law.