WACREN is seeking a highly skilled Senior Platform Developer (Publishing) who will also act as Publishing Lead, taking technical and delivery ownership of WACREN’s publishing and editorial workflow platforms. This role supports Diamond Open Access and overlay journal models across Africa.

About the Role

The Senior Platform Developer (Publishing)  is responsible for backend development and delivery leadership of Kotahi-based platforms, including PublishNow and BAOBAB overlay workflows.

The role works closely with:

  • the Senior Platform Developer (Repositories)
  • the Web & Identity Integration Lead, and
  • the DevOps Engineer.

This role is critical to meeting WACREN’s obligations under AfricaConnect4, LIBSENSE, and publishing-focused collaborations.

Key Responsibilities

Publishing & Editorial Platforms
  • Lead backend development of Kotahi-based platforms (PublishNow, BAOBAB overlays).
  • Implement submission, peer-review, editorial, and publication workflows.
  • Support overlay journal and Diamond OA publishing models.
  • Maintain editorial dashboards and workflow automation.
Interoperability & Integration
  • Implement COAR Notify integration with repositories and review systems.
  • Work with the Repository Lead on metadata and PID exchange.
  • Integrate publishing platforms with PIDsLink and eduID authentication.

Develop and maintain APIs for publishing workflows.

Delivery Leadership
  • Own the publishing platform roadmap and backlog.
  • Coordinate development contributions and releases.
  • Work with DevOps on deployments and upgrades.
  • Ensure documentation, testing, and release quality.

What’s in It for You?

  • Lead innovative Diamond OA and overlay publishing platforms.
  • Work at the intersection of repositories, identity, and peer review.
  • Collaborate with international publishing and Open Science partners.
  • Competitive remuneration and professional development opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

Essential
  • Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field.
  • Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in backend or platform development.
  • Strong experience with Node.js backend development.
  • Experience with GraphQL APIs.
  • Familiarity with editorial and workflow-driven systems.
  • Experience with Git-based workflows and CI pipelines.
  • Strong communication and documentation skills.

Fluency in English or French (working knowledge of the other is an advantage).

Desirable
  • Experience with Kotahi or similar publishing platforms.
  • Familiarity with scholarly publishing workflows.
  • Experience with COAR Notify or interoperable review systems.

Role Details

  • Duration: 3 years, renewable
  • Focus Areas: Publishing workflows, editorial systems, interoperability

Compensation: Competitive salary package

How to Apply

Submit the following documents to vacancy@wacren.net with the subject line:
“Senior Developer (Publishing)  – <Your Name>”

Deadline: March 10, 2026

  • CV outlining relevant experience.
  • Cover letter (max. 500 words) expressing your motivation and suitability.
  • Two professional references.

Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates will undergo technical evaluations and interviews.

Why Apply?

Join a team shaping Africa’s research and education infrastructure. Build, innovate, and lead with impact.