STAR AI/Academic Software Developer - Job Description
Student Technology, Advising, and Retention (STAR) AI/Academic Software DevelperSTATUS: Full Time Grant Funded
DEPARTMENT: Academics
LOCATION: Grand Rapids Lettinga Campus
REPORTS TO: STAR Project Director
DURATION: October 1, 2026 - September 30, 2031
SALARY: $87,000 SUMMARY: The STAR AI/Academic Software Developer is responsible for designing, developing, integrating, and maintaining the artificial intelligence applications, system integrations, and technology infrastructure that support the Student Technology, Advising, and Retention (STAR) project. This position serves as the technical lead for the university's AI-powered student success ecosystem, including development of custom AI applications, deployment of on-premise large language model (LLM) infrastructure, integration of academic and student support systems, and support of faculty AI innovation initiatives. The position plays a critical role in ensuring project technologies are scalable, secure, sustainable, and aligned with institutional and federal data privacy requirements.
RESPONSIBILITIES: - Collaborate with faculty / instructional designers to translate academic needs into responsible, usable, sustainable AI-supported tools.
- Document technical workflows, system integrations, development decisions, user guidance, and maintenance procedures to support sustainability beyond the grant period.
- Develop and support AI-enhanced assessments and learning activities connected to Blackboard Learn.
- Work with Information Technology Services to ensure that applications and integrations meet university standards for cybersecurity, accessibility, privacy, identity management, and system performance.
- Ensure that AI applications involving student information are developed and used in accordance with FERPA, university data governance standards, and responsible AI practices.
- Develop and maintain AI solutions that integrate data and systems from DU's virtual library, Tutor.com, and Blackboard.
- Configure, customize, and support curriculum-specific AI tools that address academic needs, learning activities, course materials, practice exercises, student engagement tools, and career-readiness simulations.
- Integrate custom solutions with enterprise systems such as Blackboard Learn, Monday.com, custom MCP, and LTI systems
- Develop and deploy custom assessments utilizing LLMs within Blackboard learning management system
- Develop curriculum-embedded simulations for career-readiness
- Support the Project Director and grant personnel through effective communication, coordination, and technical expertise.
- Facilitate communication between project staff, partners, consultants, evaluators, DU teams, and district leaders.
- Provide technical documentation, usage data, and system information needed to support project evaluation and reporting; and
- Complete grant duties as needed to facilitate full implementation.
- Understand and abide by all external and internal regulations and policies. This includes NCAA, GLIAC, and national affiliations associated with athletics or other role-specific regulations.
- Provides GREAT customer service, anticipating and exceeding the needs of our customers.
- Demonstrate and promote the University's Cultural Values.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS: - Bachelor's degree, Master's preferred, in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field required.
- Demonstrated experience designing, developing, and deploying AI-enabled software applications.
- Experience working with Large Language Models (LLMs), generative AI platforms, prompt engineering, and AI application development.
- Experience utilizing AI frameworks, APIs, Model Context Protocols (MCPs), agents, or related technologies to automate workflows and solve complex business or educational challenges.
- Strong understanding of RESTful APIs, system integrations, authentication protocols, and cloud-based application architecture.
- Experience with SQL, relational databases, and data integration processes.
- Strong software development, troubleshooting, testing, and documentation skills.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities.
- Familiarity with higher education technologies, learning management systems, and FERPA regulations preferred.
