Applications Developer

University of North Carolina System; Raleigh (NC); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina System is seeking an Applications Developer in Raleigh, North Carolina, to deliver high-quality, custom applications. This full-time position involves backend PHP development within a Linux environment, managing application defects, and could be eligible for a hybrid or remote work arrangement.

The successful candidate should have substantial web development experience with PHP frameworks like Laravel, and strong SQL skills. Benefits include opportunities for professional development and a collaborative work environment.

Qualifications

• Master’s and 2-4 years of experience; or Bachelor’s and 3-5 years of experience.
• Strong skills in constructing, optimizing, troubleshooting, and interpreting complex database queries.
• Ability to investigate, research, evaluate, and implement modern technologies.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop custom Linux/PHP applications using frameworks such as Laravel.
• Implement, test, and deploy web-based systems, ensuring quality and adherence to standards.
• Provide ongoing maintenance and support for applications post-implementation.

Skills

Web Development

SQL

Version Control

AI and Automation Technologies

Education

Master’s degree and 2–4 years of experience or Bachelor's and 3–5 years

Tools

PHP

Laravel

Git

SQL Databases

Job description

About the Opportunity

The Applications Developer (IT Analyst/Programmer III) will be part of the Application Development/Online Services division of the Digital Transformation department. The developer will be responsible for designing and delivering high‑quality, custom applications to various internal customers across a variety of projects. The Applications Developer will work closely with the PMO—Project Managers/Business Analysts—alongside Web Designers and stakeholders at various parts of the software development lifecycle to understand the project's functional and technical requirements. From these discussions and supplied specifications the Applications Developer will efficiently implement the solution while adhering to internal development standards.

In addition, this position is responsible for isolating and fixing defects in existing applications as well as migrating key legacy applications to newer platforms. This position includes significant backend PHP development responsibilities within a Linux environment, while also supporting front‑end user interface development and application integration efforts. The position may also assist with evaluating and implementing modern development tools, automation technologies, and AI‑assisted development practices to improve operational efficiency and application support. Ongoing support, maintenance, and enhancement of applications following implementation are essential responsibilities of this position.

This position may be eligible for a hybrid or remote work arrangement, consistent with System Office policy. UNC System employees are generally required to reside in North Carolina, within a 2‑hour commuting distance of their assigned duty station.

Responsibilities

Design and develop custom Linux/PHP applications using frameworks such as Laravel and internal CMS platforms.

Implement, test, and deploy web‑based systems, ensuring quality and adherence to development standards.

Identify, isolate, and fix defects in existing applications and migrate legacy systems to newer platforms.

Write and maintain SQL queries, optimizing and troubleshooting complex database operations.

Use version control tools (Git, GitLab, GitHub) to manage source code and conduct code reviews.

Participate in the evaluation, selection, and implementation of modern development tools, automation solutions, and AI‑assisted development practices.

Provide ongoing maintenance and support for applications post‑implementation.

Qualifications

Minimum Education, Experience, and Skills

• Master’s and 2–4 years of experience; or Bachelor’s and 3–5 years of experience; or a combination of related education and experience.

Required Competencies

• Minimum of three years progressive experience in the information technology field, including technology support or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Web Development: Ability to design, develop, and implement web‑based systems in a Linux/PHP environment, leveraging PHP frameworks such as Laravel and supporting internal custom CMS platforms.
• SQL: Strong skills in constructing, optimizing, troubleshooting, and interpreting complex database queries.
• Version Control: Experience using Git, GitLab, GitHub, or similar tools, managing source code, tracking changes, supporting collaborative development, maintaining branching strategies, and participating in code reviews or merge request workflows.

Preferred Education, Experience, and Skills

• Web Services: Understanding of web services, RESTful APIs, and integration concepts.
• SQL Databases: Ability to design and implement normalized table structures for transactional systems and data repositories (Oracle experience preferred).
• Client‑Server Architecture: Understanding of client‑server architecture and ability to design scalable and maintainable web‑based applications.
• Planning and Organizing: Knowledge of work standards, development processes, and documentation practices, with ability to assist management in implementing process improvements.
• Technical Knowledge: Demonstrated expertise in application systems analysis, programming, troubleshooting, and software development methodologies.
• Technical Solution Development: Ability to investigate, research, evaluate, and implement modern technologies in specialty or related areas; devise or modify procedures to solve complex technical problems.
• AI and Automation Technologies: Familiarity with AI‑assisted development tools, generative AI technologies, and modern automation practices; preferred experience using Python for scripting, automation, API integration, or related development tasks.
• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate with clients and stakeholders on issues and requests requiring the implementation or development of custom technical solutions; effective communication with both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Time Management Skills: Excellent organization and time‑management skills, able to work independently and collaboratively as part of a small team environment.

Appointment & Employment Details

• Appointment Type: Permanent
• Full‑Time/Part‑Time: Full‑Time
• Employment Type: EHRA
• EHRA Category: Instructional, Research and Information Technology
• Position Number: 20034141

Equal Employment Opportunity

The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) is an equal‑opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.

The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) is a VEVRAA federal contractor.

To claim veteran's preference, all eligible persons must indicate their eligibility as requested on the application. A DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, may be required later in the selection process.

The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) participates in E‑Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.