Senior Software Engineer

Job Title: Senior Software Engineer – LMS Platforms

Location: Remote – Capetown, South Africa

Experience: 7–10 years

Employment Type: Contract

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer (7–10 years experience) to lead the development, customization, and integration of our LMS platforms (Moodle, Canvas, OpenEdX). This role requires expertise in Python/Django, JavaScript (Node.js, React), OpenEdX, and experience with LAMP stack for Moodle customization.

As a key technical contributor, you will work on platform enhancements, API integrations, cloud deployments, and performance optimization while mentoring junior engineers and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities:

LMS Development & Architecture:

• Architect, develop, and maintain Moodle, Canvas, and OpenEdX learning platforms.
• Design and implement scalable backend solutions using Python/Django.
• Develop frontend components using React and Node.js for an intuitive user experience.
• Optimize LAMP stack performance for Moodle, ensuring high availability.
• Ensure seamless cross-platform and mobile responsiveness.

System Integration & API Development:

• Design and develop RESTful APIs and GraphQL APIs for seamless system integration.
• Implement SSO (OAuth, SAML, JWT) and authentication mechanisms for secure access.
• Integrate third-party services, payment gateways, and analytics platforms into LMS.

Cloud & DevOps Implementation:

• Deploy and manage LMS platforms on AWS/GCP/Azure, ensuring scalability.
• Work with Docker, Kubernetes, and CI/CD pipelines for automated deployments.
• Implement monitoring (Datadog, Prometheus) and logging for performance tracking.

Performance & Security Optimization:

• Optimize database performance (MySQL, PostgreSQL) and indexing.
• Enhance system security and compliance with educational standards.
• Ensure high availability and fault tolerance of the LMS platforms.

Mentorship & Collaboration:

• Mentor junior engineers, conduct code reviews, and promote best coding practices.
• Collaborate with business analysts, UX designers, and QA teams to refine requirements.
• Work closely with DevOps and cloud engineers to ensure smooth deployments.

Technical Documentation & Process Improvement:

• Maintain detailed technical documentation, API specs, and system architecture diagrams.
• Continuously improve development workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and DevOps strategies.

Required Skills & Experience:

• 7–10 years of experience in LMS development (Moodle, Canvas, OpenEdX).
• Strong expertise in Python/Django, Node.js, React, and LAMP stack.
• Experience in LMS plugin development, customization, and API integrations.
• Hands-on experience with MySQL/PostgreSQL database optimization.
• Proficiency in cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, or Azure) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Solid understanding of OAuth, SAML, JWT authentication mechanisms.
• Agile/Scrum experience with strong problem-solving skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in OpenEdX XBlocks development and customization.
• Familiarity with AWS Lambda, Step Functions, and microservices architecture.
• Exposure to GraphQL, Elasticsearch, and message queues (RabbitMQ, Kafka).
• Understanding of accessibility (WCAG) and UX best practices for e-learning.