Fairfax County Public Schools

Senior Manager III, Software Engineering

Fairfax County Public Schools • $100K — $130K *
Wilton, IA 52778In-Person
Information Technology
5 - 7 years of experience
More than 3 months ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or related field, or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years in software engineering and application development with leadership experience on system modernization projects.
  • Experience in both legacy and modern web technologies.
  • Minimum 2 years in a supervisory role.
  • Knowledge of the full software development lifecycle (SDLC), Agile, and DevOps.

Responsibilities

  • Create and manage software engineering program activities to align technology with organizational goals.
  • Oversee all phases of the SDLC to enhance efficiency and scalability.
  • Lead and develop software engineering teams, promoting collaborative skills.
  • Implement modern practices like CI/CD and automated testing to improve quality and delivery.
  • Serve as a liaison between engineering and business partners to align project requirements.

Benefits

  • Professional development opportunities.
  • Support for continuous learning and skill enhancement.
  • Collaborative work environment focusing on team growth.
  • Engagement with emerging technologies and practices.
  • Opportunity to lead significant technology initiatives within the organization.
Full Job Description
Summary

Plans, manages, and coordinates complex software engineering program activities and personnel requiring multi-disciplinary collaboration and broad program scope. Leads the transformation and modernization of applications to ensure secure, scalable, and sustainable operations. Serves as the liaison between software engineering staff and functional department leadership to align technology initiatives with operational objectives. Oversees the planning and implementation of technology projects, and provides direction to staff in developing the skills necessary to meet evolving business and technical requirements. Exercises leadership to design, create, implement, assess, and refine programs and services that support efficient and effective operations.

Qualifications

Required
  • Any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field.
  • Five (5) years of progressive experience in software engineering and application development, including demonstrated experience leading teams in system modernization projects.
  • Experience must include working with both legacy and modern web-based technology environments.
  • A minimum of two (2) years in a supervisory or leadership role is required.
  • Knowledge of the full software development lifecycle (SDLC), including Agile and DevOps principles.
  • Knowledge of application modernization strategies, patterns, and common challenges.
  • Knowledge of current information technologies, system development methodologies, and industry best practices.
  • Knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and standards related to technology operations.
  • Skill in system design, development, implementation, integration, and performance optimization.
  • Skill in personnel, financial, and administrative management.
  • Proficiency in data compilation, analysis, and reporting to support decision-making.
  • Proficiency with version control, build automation, and continuous integration and delivery practices.
  • Ability to lead, mentor, and develop staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders to gather requirements and develop technology roadmaps.
  • Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, effectively prioritizing tasks and resources.
  • Ability to prepare written technical reports as well as short- and long-term plans.
  • Ability to facilitate meetings and present information to diverse technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Ability to manage, evaluate, and supervise program activities and personnel.
  • Ability to serve as a liaison between technical teams and other departments, ensuring clear communication and coordinated decision-making.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with clarity and professionalism.
Preferred
  • Experience within a large-scale public sector, government, or educational environment.
  • Proven experience migrating monolithic applications to modern architectural patterns (e.g., microservices, serverless).
  • Experience with legacy platforms (coldfusion, .net, apex etc.) and modern development (Node.JS, Javascript, full stack, python etc)
  • Experience with cloud platform services (AWS, Azure, or GCP).
  • Professional certifications in cloud technologies, software architecture, or project management, such as:
    • Cloud solution design
    • Application development
    • Agile or Scrum methodologies
    • Program or portfolio management
  • Hands-on experience or strong familiarity with AI-assisted coding tools and plugins within an integrated development environment (IDE).
  • Conceptual knowledge of emerging AI-driven development practices, such as agent-based workflows.
  • Experience with low-code application development platforms.


Major Duties/Essential Functions

  1. Creates, designs, and oversees the broad activities of software engineering programs to support organizational objectives, modernize applications, and ensure compliance with security, accessibility, and technology standards.
  2. Manages all phases of the software development lifecycle (SDLC), including needs and resource analysis, system design and development, implementation of testing processes, deployment, maintenance, and post-production reviews, with a focus on efficiency, performance, and scalability.
  3. Leads, mentors, and develops a team of software engineers, fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and skill enhancement to meet evolving technical requirements.
  4. Oversees the adoption and implementation of modern development practices, including continuous integration and delivery (CI/CD), automated testing, and other process improvements that enhance quality and delivery speed.
  5. Serves as the primary liaison between the software engineering team and business partners, facilitating clear communication, gathering and refining requirements, and ensuring technology solutions meet defined needs.
  6. Evaluates emerging technologies, platforms, and tools, and coordinates their adoption to improve application performance, development processes, and long-term maintainability.
  7. Assists with the planning of short- and long-term objectives for software engineering and related technical initiatives.
  8. Plays a key role in developing strategies to achieve organizational goals and is accountable for measurable outcomes.
  9. Directs the development of long-range program plans, staffing profiles, resource management strategies, and related procedures to ensure program success.
  10. Oversees and participates in the preparation of the operating budget for software engineering functions, establishing controls over expenditures and allocating human and physical resources effectively.
  11. Prepares and/or coordinates technical reports and analyses to identify trends, assess risks, and communicate key insights to decision-makers.
  12. Manages risk and ensures compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations, policies, and technical standards.
  13. Represents the program or department in negotiations or in resolving matters of significance related to software engineering projects.
  14. Presents information and recommendations to senior leadership to support decision-making on technology initiatives.
  15. Develops and maintains working relationships with internal teams, external partners, and relevant agencies to support software engineering goals.
  16. Facilitates meetings with technical, business, and vendor partners to align objectives and ensure project success.
  17. Provides guidance and recommends solutions to resolve complex technical and operational issues.
  18. Negotiates and/or manages contracts, vendor agreements, and service-level commitments related to software engineering projects.
  19. Oversees the work of vendors and contractors to ensure quality and compliance with project requirements.
  20. Performs related duties as required or assigned.


Work Environment/Physical Requirements

"
This job operates in a professional office environment and has a noise level of mostly low to moderate. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.
"

About Fairfax County Public Schools

Fairfax County Public Schools Careers

Join the dedicated team at Fairfax County Public Schools, a leader in educational excellence and innovation. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to a community that values diversity, leadership, and professional growth.

Explore Job Opportunities

Fairfax County Public Schools offers a wide range of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and interests. Whether looking for a position in teaching, administration, or support services, Fairfax County Public Schools is actively hiring talented individuals who are passionate about shaping the future of education.

Professional Growth and Development

At Fairfax County Public Schools, career advancement is supported by robust professional development programs. Employees are encouraged to enhance their skills through leadership training and educational workshops, ensuring continuous professional and personal growth.

Internship Programs

Gain invaluable experience with Fairfax County Public Schools' internship programs. These opportunities allow students and recent graduates to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting, fostering a bridge between educational endeavors and career aspirations.

Benefits and Culture

Employees at Fairfax County Public Schools enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that underscores the institution’s commitment to their well-being and job satisfaction. The culture here is built on a foundation of respect and inclusivity, promoting an environment where all team members can thrive.

Innovation in Education

Fairfax County Public Schools is at the forefront of educational innovation. The team is committed to implementing cutting-edge technologies and teaching methods that enhance the learning experience and prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world.

Networking and Community Engagement

The community at Fairfax County Public Schools is vibrant and interconnected. Networking events and community engagement initiatives provide employees with the chance to build relationships, share ideas, and contribute to the school district’s goals and objectives.

Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity is a cornerstone of the culture at Fairfax County Public Schools. Through diversity training and inclusive hiring practices, the school system ensures a welcoming environment for all, reflecting the rich multicultural community it serves.

How to Apply

To explore open positions, refine your resume, and prepare for your interview, visit the Fairfax County Public Schools Careers page. Tailor your application to the job that aligns with your skills and professional interests, and take the first step towards a rewarding career in education.

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Fairfax County Public Schools is not just a place of employment; it is a thriving community eager to welcome professionals who are ready to make a difference. Join a team that is dedicated to innovation, leadership, and the future of education.
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* Ladders Estimates

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