Job Description
Job Description Westat is a leader in research, data collection and analysis, technical assistance, evaluation, and communications. Our evidence-based findings help clients in government and the private sector accelerate advancements in health, education, transportation, and social and economic policy. Our dedication to improving lives through research and our approach to projects grounded in investigative curiosity, statistical and data rigor, adaptive methods, and advanced technology are why clients find exceptional value in our work. Job Summary Westat is seeking a software technical lead developer (Senior IT Associate) to support an NIH program focused on the design, development, and integration of clinical and research systems. This role will lead technical implementation efforts, guide development teams, and ensure scalable, secure, and interoperable solutions across a complex, multi-system environment. The ideal candidate brings strong full-stack development experience, API design expertise, and familiarity with modern DevOps practices. This position is contingent upon the award of the contract. This position has a hybrid arrangement to work onsite at our Bethesda, MD office 3 days per week and 2 days per week from your home office. 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 (20 days per year) Sick Leave (9 days per year) Holiday Leave (7 Government Holidays and 2 Floating Holidays) 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 Sp