Job Details

Discovery Systems Developer - University Libraries - UTK

Position Number: 6573180
Location: Chattanooga, TN
Position Type: Libraries

Discovery Systems Developer - University Libraries - UTK
Knoxville, TN, United States

Job Identification: 5092
Job Category: Info Technology
Posting Date: 09/15/2025
Job Schedule: Full Time
Locations: 1015 Volunteer Boulevard, Knoxville, TN, 37996, US

Job Description
This position plays a key role in managing the Alma library services platform, and also provides custom programming for OneSearch, the library's front-end discovery interface. Additional responsibilities include developing custom applications and APIs, extending functionality across systems such as TeamDynamix, ILLiad, CaiaSoft, and Juntar, and collaborating with campus IT and vendor support teams to ensure seamless interoperability. The Discovery Systems Developer works with a high degree of autonomy on complex projects and provides continuous improvement to library systems and services. They will continuously seek knowledge and learning opportunities to expand their skill sets and maintain currency with new innovations in the library technology field.

Responsibilities
Programming and Development

Architect and develop reusable, secure, and maintainable code to extend the functionality of Alma, Primo, and related systems.
Analyze and resolve complex technical problems related to custom library applications.
Lead the technical roadmap for developing and integrating Alma REST APIs, customizing Primo's front-end interface, and enhancing interoperability with systems such as TeamDynamix and Juntar.
Implement new system features and vendor updates and create original functionality using modern programming practices.
Discover and implement solutions for identifying code bugs and system vulnerabilities.
Collaborate with the Discovery Systems Manager and vendor developers to ensure alignment with strategic goals and user needs.
Create and maintain documentation on applications the position develops.

Deploy and Manage Critical Library systems and Cross-campus Workflows

Lead the technical planning and implementation of Alma system configurations, with a focus on Fulfillment, Patron Management, Course Reserves, XML notices, and Library Management tables.
Design and implement scalable integration strategies with campus systems such as Banner, DASH, LDAP, and the Registrar's Office.
Develop and maintain system tables and code to align with vendor updates.
Collaborate with campus IT and vendor support teams to ensure secure, efficient, and standards-compliant data exchange.
Design automated workflows in TeamDynamix as needed.
Exercise independent judgment in troubleshooting and resolving complex system issues.

Collaboration and Strategy

Serve as a subject matter expert and technical advisor to cross-functional teams across the Libraries.
Lead technical consultations for complex system enhancements, workflow design, and integration planning.
Provide advanced support for escalated issues and contribute to the Libraries' documentation strategy by maintaining accurate, accessible technical documentation.
Participate in cross-training to ensure system support redundancy.
Completes 1 - 3 hours of professional development training per month.
Ensure continuity of support for critical systems during off-hours.
Coordinates with team members and library units on usability and accessibility requirements for new and existing applications under their purview.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience: Two years of programming/ development experience

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

Knowledge of library service platforms, discovery systems, and delivery workflows.

Knowledge of data formats and system integration practices in academic libraries.

Demonstrated programming skills (e.g., PHP, JavaScript, Python, Perl).

Skill in working with REST and/or SOAP APIs for system interoperability.

Skill in Unix/Linux environments and command-line tools.

Ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues independently.

Ability to design and maintain web-based interfaces and custom applications.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with technical and non-technical stakeholders to solve complex problems.

Ability to manage technical documentation and contribute to documentation strategy.

Ability to stay current with, evaluate, and apply emerging technologies to enhance library systems in alignment with strategic goals.

Ability to work both independently and within a team.

Ability to lead technical projects from concept to deployment with minimal supervision.

Demonstrated skill in designing scalable, secure, and interoperable systems, with knowledge of enterprise architecture and integration best practices.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience:

Two years of experience working with system vendors to troubleshoot problems.

Experience with Ex Libris Alma and Primo systems

Experience with web-based interface design.

Two years of experience with a relational database management system such as MySQL.

Experience working with library services platforms

Experience with a business intelligence reporting tool such as Oracle BI.

Experience working with XML and/or JSON data and schemas.

Experience working in an academic library computing environment.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

Knowledge of library-specific data formats and fulfillment workflows.

Ability to work with AngularJS or similar JavaScript frameworks.

Work Location

Location: Knoxville, TN
Onsite

Compensation and Benefits

UT market range: 12
Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments.

Resume
Cover Letter

About The College/Department/Division

The University of Tennessee Libraries are an integral part of the flagship campus of Tennessee's premier public research university. The University of Tennessee holds the Carnegie Foundation Research 1 designation, granted to doctoral universities with very high research activity. As a land-grant university and as Volunteers, serving our state and nation is key to our mission. UT enrolls approximately 38,728 students at its Knoxville campus. For more information about the people who comprise the UTK community, view resources on our Data Central website. The University culture is guided by adherence to core values that define the Volunteer spirit and include seeking knowledge, leading with innovation and integrity, engaging locally and globally, and embracing responsible stewardship of resources.

About Us
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices that attract and retain a diverse community and that support a culture where everyone matters and belongs.

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

To apply, visit https://fa-ewlq-saasfaprod1.fa.ocs.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/5092/?mode=location