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University of Wisconsin - Madison
Software Engineer/Developer
🇺🇸
Hybrid - Madison, Wisconsin
🕑
Full-Time
💰
$70K - $85K
💻
Information Technology
🗓️
September 6th, 2026
Java
Higher Ed
Edtech.com's Summary
University of Wisconsin - Madison is hiring a Software Engineer/Developer. The TOPS Lab in the College of Engineering builds and supports transportation safety systems in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. This role codes, tests, and maintains applications used by researchers, staff, and external stakeholders across the lab's projects.
Highlights
- Codes new applications and enhances existing systems for the TOPS Lab
- Builds front-end interfaces using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks such as React or Angular
- Works with relational databases including Oracle, PostgreSQL, and MSSQL
- Applies object-oriented design principles using Java
- Tests and debugs programs and prepares systems test data
- Documents technical specifications and training materials
- Collaborates with engineers, researchers, and WisDOT stakeholders on real-world transportation systems
- Offers a starting salary of $70,000 to $85,000 depending on experience
- Requires at least 2 years of professional software development experience
- Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field preferred
Software Engineer/Developer Full Description
Job Summary
The TOPS Lab, part of the College of Engineering and the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, is dedicated to improving transportation safety and mobility through innovative research, partnerships, and applied technology solutions. As part of the lab’s Information Technology Research and Development group, this position contributes to impactful, real-world systems developed in collaboration with partners such as the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). The Software Engineer/Developer I/II will play a key role in supporting and enhancing these mission-critical systems.
In this role, you’ll work closely with experienced engineers, researchers, and external stakeholders to design, build, and support large-scale applications that make a difference in transportation safety and efficiency. You’ll collaborate with a diverse team of staff, faculty, and students to help shape system requirements and bring new features and improvements to life. The position also offers opportunities to contribute to system implementation and deployment, ensure performance and reliability of production systems, and create clear, effective technical documentation that supports long-term success.
The Software Engineer/Developer I/II assists in design, development, testing, debugging, maintaining, and supporting TOPS Lab systems and applications.
Key Job Responsibilities
- Reviews application design specifications, codes new applications, and makes enhancements to existing applications
- Implements data structure and systems performance strategies
- Maintains and troubleshoots applications, systems, or websites
- Prepares program documentation and training requirements
- Tests and debugs programs, and prepares systems test data
- Develops or modifies technical specifications for low-complexity projects using disciplined software development practices
Applicants for this position will be considered for Software Engineer/Developer I and Software Engineer/Developer II titles. The title and compensation will be determined by the experience and qualifications of the finalist.
Department
College of Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering – Traffic Operations and Safety Laboratory (TOPS)
Compensation
Starting salary will be based on experience and qualifications. Well-qualified applicants can anticipate earning between $70,000 and $85,000, with final salary based on experience and qualifications.
Required Qualifications
- At least 2 years of professional software development experience in a business or production environment
- Proficiency in using the Java programming language
- Proficiency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, with experience using modern front-end frameworks or libraries (e.g., Bootstrap, React, Angular)
- Proficiency in object-oriented design and programming
- Experience with databases (e.g., Oracle database, PostgreSQL, MSSQL)
- Experience working across the software development lifecycle including requirements, architecture, design, development, testing, documentation, and maintenance
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with backend Java frameworks such as Spring or Hibernate
- Experience in JUnit and integration testing frameworks
- Experience using front-end mapping libraries such as Leaflet, OpenLayers, or Google Maps API
- Experience with collaborative workflows and CI/CD pipelines
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Demonstrated success working in a team environment
- Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Education
Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field preferred.
How to Apply
Successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States on or before the effective date of appointment. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants are required to upload a resume, a cover letter, and a separate document answering supplemental questions about relevant technical experience, as outlined in the full posting.
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies.
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