ASSISTANT SOLUTIONS ENGINEER, Office of the Provost, Computing and Data Sciences

About BU Spark!: Founded in 2017, Spark! is an innovation and experiential learning lab for interdisciplinary computing and data science projects. Based at BU’s Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences, Spark! serves as the experiential learning engine for students majoring in computer science, data science, computer engineering and related disciplines, providing opportunities for students to work on real-world projects learning focused on the application of data science, machine learning, and software engineering skills through a series of practicum courses and labs organized around thematic priority areas such as social justice, sustainability, and civic tech.

Position Summary: We are seeking an Assistant Solutions Engineer with a strong background in software engineering, data engineering and full stack development to join our team. This role involves overseeing and contributing to a wide range of projects, from web and mobile applications to automating internal tasks, in collaboration with undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and external partners. This position works closely with students as a coach and mentor on projects for external partners and will work closely with the Spark! Technical Director to develop and build a technical infrastructure that will strengthen project quality, maintain and enable public access to technical artifacts produced through Spark! programs. The Assistant Solutions Engineer will have opportunities to work directly on special projects and initiatives in coordination with external partners and experts in residence and will support CDS co-Labs including Justice Media co-Lab and the Open Justice co-Lab.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with student project teams supporting them to design, develop, and deploy software solutions that align with partner specifications and project goals.
• Oversee the technical aspects of student led projects, providing guidance and mentorship to enhance their learning experience and ensure consistent project outcomes that satisfy client requests.
• Work directly on special projects for VIP clients or Spark! Tech projects
• Maintain and share expertise in full stack development activities, utilizing a diverse tech stack including React.js, Next.js, TypeScript, Flutter, and various backend technologies (Google Firebase, Python-based APIs, Node.js). An interest in learning any of the stacks you are not familiar with.
• Lend technical expertise/ oversight on project scoping as needed
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of Spark!'s technical infrastructure for software engineering, data science, ensuring best practices in project outputs including code quality and security
• Support learning Ambassadors in designing and deploying relevant skill building activities (e.g. micro challenges and tech talk workshops, etc.)
• Participate in Spark! community programming and events, supporting the community and outreach manager.
• Participate in the identification and interviewing of prospective student interns and student team members.

Required Skills

• BA/BS degree in Computer Science or a related technical field.
• 1-5 years of experience in software engineering, data engineering, data science, with a strong emphasis on full stack development.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to mentor and support students in technical projects.
• Knowledge in React.js and TypeScript for front-end development.
• Experience with mobile app development, preferably using Flutter, for cross-platform solutions.
• Familiarity with backend development, including Google Firebase, Python-based APIs (Flask, FastAPI), or Node.js + Express.
• Understanding of CI/CD processes, code quality checks, and software engineering standards.
• Passion for learning and applying new technologies.
• Experience and passion for working on interdisciplinary computing and commitment to user-centered design principles and practices.
• Outstanding communication and people skills with an ability to engage and interact effectively with diverse stakeholders from students to senior government officials to distinguished alumni.
• Strong process and project management skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, dynamic work setting. Flexibility is a must. Positivity and teamwork is a must.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in a personal and professional context
• Basic IT skills (MS Office/Google Office, slack, trello, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in data engineering, data science, and machine learning
• Experience and knowledge of technology product development and UX/UI Design
• Knowledge of agile development methodologies
• Familiarity with ethical and responsible computing principles and practices

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status. We are a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.