Software Engineer – Knowledge Transfer Partnership Associate

As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for the management and delivery of an Innovate UK awarded KTP between the University of Sunderland and Team Fostering, focusing on the design, development, and implementation of a bespoke Dynamic Team Fostering (DTF) system for Team Fostering. This system will streamline workflows and introduce innovative AI-driven capabilities such as speech-to-text conversion, machine learning for decision support, and a user-friendly web interface.
You will be employed by the University of Sunderland as Software Engineer – Knowledge Transfer Associate and work alongside and supported by a team of experienced academic and company experts in the relevant areas on a regular basis. The main base for this role is at the Team Fostering premise in North Shields.
This contract will provide a great opportunity to be involved in establishing Team Fostering as a leading UK foster care provider, which is expected to deliver significant economic, commercial and societal benefits for the company, and top-tier research publications for the university.
The responsibilities:
– Manage and deliver a clearly defined plan for the KTP project, including the objectives, milestones and outputs.
– Define a personal development plan with the help of company supervisors and university staff and attend all necessary KTP related courses, events, management, and reporting meetings as and when necessary.
– Support company and university supervisors to keep sight of the KTP project outcomes and to provide regular reports on progress made and to address, if necessary, any operational challenges such as access to data and outstanding communications.
– Report to company and university supervisors regularly to clarify objectives, discuss progress and to highlight any perceived challenges. Minutes of meeting will be recorded as a reference source and will contribute to appraisals.
– Report to the lead supervisor once a week, and who will have timely access to the onsite record of meetings with the company supervisors.
– Instigate regular contact to provide technical expertise, and the sourcing of university-wide expertise in terms of training and development such as at the university’s marketing hub and enterprise hub.

The role holder will require CRB clearance (enhanced DBS check), and requirement to work unsocial hours.

The benefits:
At The University of Sunderland, we are committed to creating a work environment where you can truly thrive. We recognise that our success is built on the dedication and talent of our people, which is why we have developed a benefits package designed to support you in every aspect of your life.

From generous annual leave and enhanced pay for important life events like maternity, paternity, or adoption, to flexible work options that help you balance life’s demands, we’ve got you covered. Our benefits also include access to our award-winning staff support networks, confidential employee assistance, discounts on major retail brands, leisure activities, travel to work, and more.

At Sunderland, we’re not just offering a job, we’re offering a place where you can grow, connect, and feel truly valued. Welcome to a community that rewards your contributions.

Who we’re looking for
Your qualifications include:
– A relevant undergraduate degree to be of Class 2:1 or higher in Computer Science, Data Science, or a related discipline, with a developer background.
– A PhD in a related field is preferable (desirable)

Your experience includes:
– General understanding of social care and a passion for achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people who are living within fostering families.
– Proficiency in web technologies and database development.
– Experience in multiple AI applications, including machine learning algorithms, large language models, and nature language processing/speech-to-text conversion.
– Capacity to thrive in a fast-paced, agile team environment.
– A meticulous and detail-oriented approach to work.
– Proven ability to work effectively both independently and within a team of varied technical capabilities.
– A proactive interest in exploring and adopting new technologies, with the ability to quickly establish functional baselines.
– Confidence and clarity in communication, particularly with creative and production teams.
– This position involves working with data and case information that may relate to trauma, neglect, or abuse. Candidates should possess the resilience to manage exposure to such material while maintaining a professional approach to data handling, security, and confidentiality

What we’re looking for
Your expertise includes:
– Proficiency in software development, particularly in programming languages such as Python, Java or C++.
– Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret technical data and apply it to software development
– Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment
– A proactive attitude toward learning new skills, adapting to new challenges, and integrating multidisciplinary knowledge into software solutions.
– Ability to demonstrate self-confidence, enterprise and a positive outlook.
– Ability to maintain and development relation.

The project aims to develop an advanced digital system for foster care management that replaces manual processes, aiming to improve operational efficiency and decision-making in the social care sector.