General Purpose: Under administrative direction, develops, plans, coordinates, and administers the development and execution of the web development services for the Detroit Public Library (DPL); provides support in delivering excellent web services through a network of 21 branch libraries; and assist in quality service delivery to DPL customers. This role is seen as a hands-on management position informed by the ideal of a 24/7 virtual branch framework.
Supervison Received/Exercised: Works under the administrative direction of the Assistant Director, Marketing and Communications and does exercise supervisory responsibility.
Distinguishing Characteristics: This job class is an individual contributor and is not distinguished from other classes in a job series.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.
The Web Developer will be responsible for maintaining the Libraries’ web presence. The position is responsible for the ongoing technical management, updating, and repair of all server-side and client-side code on which the Libraries’ website is built. He/she/they is charged with the design, development, management, and maintenance of flexible and reliable website environments for the Library.
This includes routine maintenance and content upkeep as well as design and quality assurance activities. The position maintains public access to the databases underlying the Libraries’ various web services. The position collaborates with librarians and managers to implement new aspects of the website such as new pages, functionalities, and design. • Governs development and design of all library-managed web and online sites and mobile applications.
• Writes well designed, testable, efficient code by using best software development practices.
• Integrates and manages database design and content management systems like Drupal and Craft.
• Has a working knowledge of responsive web design and universal design issues.
• Creates website layout/user interface by using standard HTML/CSS practices.
• Provides consistency with design standards for all DPL sites that meet ADA requirements. • Monitors the customer experience, evaluates customer service requests, activities and changes in operation to provide the highest quality web services.
• Integrates data from various back-end services and databases.
• Gathers and refine specifications and requirements based on technical needs.
• Create and maintain software documentation.
• Be responsible for maintaining, expanding, and scaling our site.
• Stays plugged into emerging technologies/industry trends and apply them into operations and activities.
• Cooperates with web designers to match visual design intent.
Minimum Qualifications:
Education and Experience:
• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 2+ years’ experience in application development and testing.
• 1+ years’ SDLC implementation experience.
• Ability to create support documentation for all new applications.
• Strong teamwork skills.
• Proven knowledge of the most current security and web development programming languages.
• 2+ years’ experience in a library or academic setting.
Required Knowledge of:
• A solid understanding of how web applications work including security, session management, and best development practices.
• Adequate knowledge of relational database systems, Object Oriented Programming and web application development.
• Hands-on experience with network diagnostics, network analytics tools.
• Basic knowledge of Search Engine Optimization process.
• Aggressive problem diagnosis and creative problem-solving skills.
• Strong organizational skills to juggle multiple tasks within the constraints of timelines and budgets.
• Ability to work and thrive in a fast-paced environment, learn rapidly and master diverse web technologies and techniques.
Required Skill in:
• Interacting with people of different social, economic, and ethnic backgrounds.
• Project management and administration.
• Problem solving and decision-making.
• Planning, analyzing, organizing and coordinating activities and establishing priorities.
• Presenting ideas and concepts orally (including public speaking) and in writing.
• Working cooperatively with branch and department managers and staff.
• Responding to inquiries in effective oral and written communications.
• Utilizing personal computer software programs affecting assigned work and in compiling and preparing spreadsheets and reports.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with Library and department staff, outside agencies, and the general public.
Physical Demands / Work Environment:
• Work is performed in a standard library environment.
• Subject to sitting, standing, and walking.
• Subject to lifting 10-25 pounds.
