Software Developer – Education Support Professionals

AlphaPlus is a Manchester-based education service business specialising in standards, assessment and certification. We help our clients design, develop, deploy and evaluate qualifications and their underpinning assessments. Our work spans the public and private sectors, schools, colleges, vocational and professional learning and includes work across the UK’s four nations, and international projects. AlphaPlus is a member of the AQA group.

AlphaPlus is the leading exponent of high-stakes computerised adaptive tests (CAT) in the UK – working with technology partners, we deliver two flagship national assessment programmes for UK Government agencies. We are now developing a suite of core technologies to support and enhance our competitive advantage in this area.

We are seeking a proficient software developer to design, build, and maintain efficient, reusable, and reliable code. The initial focus is on C/C++; the role requires strong experience in this area. The postholder will be involved in various phases of software development, from concept and design right through to testing, and will play an integral role in the creation of high-performance applications. The work involves taking on and advancing an existing CAT codebase, as well as developing new algorithms, co-designed with our psychometrics team.

They will support and be line-managed by the Director of Technology.

Responsibilities:

• Lead on creation and development of the software development function within AlphaPlus.
• Lead on the development of a high-quality, scalable, complex codebase.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define, design, and ship new features and new algorithms.
• Make a major contribution to the development of strategic core technologies.
• Enhance AlphaPlus’ ability to develop in-house technology platforms in support of business needs.

Minimum Requirements:

• Strong technology skills, including software design and development.
• Excellent analytical capabilities, highly numerate, comfortable with implementing mathematical models in code.
• Excellent team working skills.
• Ability to function independently with excellent problem solving and decision-making abilities.
• Demonstrable competence in software development.
• High level of proficiency in C/C++.
• Degree level or equivalent.
• Proven experience as a C/C++ Software engineer or similar role.
• At least 3 years’ professional experience and demonstrable track record of the full implementation lifecycle of projects requiring software development elements.
• Substantial experience of delivering the software-related components of projects.
• Experience of working in teams in project-based contexts.

Desirable Attributes:

• Formal training in software development, such as a computer science degree.
• Proficiency in other systems programming languages, such as Rust or Zig, or higher-level languages such as C# or Python.
• Knowledge on the creation or usage of Domain Specific Languages.

Benefits:

• Discretionary profit related bonus scheme.
• Enhanced maternity/parental leave.
• 25 days paid leave plus the eight statutory bank holidays.
• Commitment to developing the expertise of our employees.

For an informal discussion about the vacancy please email Sam Maughan, Director of Technology, sam.maughan@alphaplus.co.uk, who will contact you at a convenient time.

The post is open to flexible working arrangements for the right candidate, which can be discussed further at interview.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an assessment at our Manchester office on 7 May 2025 and an online interview via Teams on 14 May 2025.

Please note that AlphaPlus is not licensed to offer sponsorship under the UK government’s skilled worker sponsorship scheme.

To apply:

Application is via the AlphaPlus online application form located on its website vacancies pages here:

£40,000 to £45,000 per annum depending on qualifications and experience.