At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop innovative web solutions for social impact projects using cutting-edge technologies.
- Company: Join a non-profit R&D lab focused on solving pressing social challenges.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible remote work, a supportive team, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Work with a talented team in an inclusive environment with great career growth potential.
- Why this job: Be part of transformative projects that empower communities and improve democracy.
- Qualifications: Experience in front-end development, collaborative problem-solving, and remote teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
Open Systems Lab is a non-profit R&D lab bringing together designers, researchers, technologists, engineers, lawyers, government workers and domain experts to solve difficult social problems.
We imagine, build and deploy open source tools and infrastructures that allow citizens, communities, governments and businesses to operate in new ways, in order to meet the big social, economic and environmental challenges of our time.
We’re especially focused on addressing deep challenges related to the built environment - from housing, zero-carbon construction and rewiring ownership to transforming the planning system.
In particular we are currently working with a growing number of Local Planning Authorities and the Ministry for Housing Communities and Local government to build Plan – a tool that allows government to collaboratively create intelligent planning services that make complex bureaucratic processes simpler and more transparent.
We are currently scaling this service to 50+ councils and government departments.
As we scale, we are looking for experienced freelance web developersto join our team and bring skill and expertise to OSL projects .
You will enjoy this work if you are a
- Natural doer-deliverer, who can work in an agile way, weigh up priorities and make good judgements, balancing short term delivery against long-term vision and future-proofing.
- Fast learner who knows how to ask for feedback, take it on board, and turn it into meaningful improvements.
- Collaborative interdisciplinary problem-solver who can confidently and consistently see through solutions with minimal external management.
OSL is a fully remote team of specialists who are comfortable operating independently and assuming a high level of autonomy from day one.
For this reason, we're looking for people who have ample experience working within remote software teams using Git Hub and async project management tools.
At this time, we're not able to support junior developers or those new to working on software teams.
What we're looking for
- We’re eager to connect if you are experienced in any of the following problem spaces:
- Building robust front end features using React Type Script.
- Building performant, collaborative, low-code editors which utilise JSON Operational Transforms (OT) or Conflict-free Replicated Data Type (CRDT) data structures.
- Implementing role-based permission models across multiple layers of an application stack
- Testing and improving accessibility of front-end components and maintaining customised design systems
- Designing and implementing scalable testing strategies
- Integrating with both new and legacy systems like payment processing APIs and document management systems, and contributing to the development of open data standards that support interoperability, especially of planning application data and policies.
- Thinking about how AI may be applied to these challenges while still prioritising design principles like auditability
- Fine-tuning Postgre SQL databases and managing infrastructure-as-code using tools like Pulumi and AWS.
Configuring Github Actions, PNPM workspaces or similar monorepo tools, and error monitoring to help small developer teams work smarte
What's in it for you?
- Work with a small, incredibly talented, friendly, and motivated team of people in a high-expectations, but always kind and inclusive environment.
You will be part of a team coming up with creative strategic and tactical solutions together.
- Ridiculously flexible working. Work where you want and when you want (most of the time at least).
- Take a key role in transformative public digital projects, with potential to have a hugely positive impact on improving a key layer of everyday democracy, and giving governments and communities the tools they need to rise to the climate crisis.
- Open Systems Lab is a non-profit company
registered in England & Wales 9152368 - #J-18808-Ljbffr
Freelance Full Stack Developer employer: Open Systems Lab
Open Systems Lab is a non-profit R&D lab that fosters collaboration among diverse professionals to tackle significant social challenges. The company offers a fully remote working environment, allowing employees to engage in meaningful projects that contribute to societal betterment. With a focus on open-source tools and innovative planning solutions, it provides opportunities for professional growth and involvement in impactful civic tech initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Freelance Full Stack Developer
✨Make Your Portfolio Shine
As a freelancer in software development, your portfolio is your bread and butter. Showcase not only your completed projects but also your coding skills on platforms like GitHub or GitLab. This visibility can lead to clients reaching out to you directly!
✨Join Developer Communities
Get involved in developer communities like Stack Overflow or Reddit's r/programming. Contributing to discussions, sharing your knowledge, or even helping others can expand your network and lead to freelance opportunities. Plus, it keeps you in the loop about what’s trending in software development.
✨Freelance Platforms Are Your Friend
Sign up for popular freelance platforms such as Upwork or Freelancer. They’re filled with people looking for talent like yours! Don’t forget to personalise your pitch to each potential client, highlighting how your unique skills can solve their specific problems.
✨Utilise Your Network
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your existing contacts - you never know who might need your services or can refer you to someone who does. Personal connections can lead to more reliable gigs than cold applications. And we're here to help too! If you're looking for freelance opportunities, check out opportunities listed on our website.
We think you need these skills to ace Freelance Full Stack Developer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your GitHub Projects:When applying for a freelance software engineering gig at Open Systems Lab, make sure to include your GitHub link in your application. Highlighting your code repositories, contributions to Open Source, and any personal projects can really set you apart and give us insight into your skills and coding style.
Tailor Your CV with Relevant Skills:In software development, the specifics matter! Make sure your CV lists the programming languages and technologies you excel at. Focus on the ones that align with the projects Open Systems Lab is working on. Listing your tech stack clearly will help us understand how you fit into our team.
Include a Portfolio of Your Work:A solid portfolio is a must when applying for freelance roles. Include links to any apps, websites, or software you've developed. Highlight any projects that reflect a strong user experience, efficiency, or innovative solutions—this is your chance to shine and show us what you can bring to the table!
Mention Your Availability and Rates:Since this is a freelance role, we want to know when you’re available and what your rates are like! Be upfront about your typical work hours and project timelines. This transparency will help us see if we can sync up for future projects at Open Systems Lab.
How to prepare for a job interview at Open Systems Lab
✨Showcase Your Code Wizardry
Since you're going for a freelance role in software engineering, have a solid portfolio ready to flaunt your best work. Include projects that highlight your coding skills, frameworks you excel in, and any problem-solving feats you've pulled off. This is your chance to shine, so choose pieces that reflect your unique style and expertise!
✨Prepare for Technical Challenges
Freelance gigs often involve tech assessments or coding challenges, so be ready to tackle some hands-on problems. Brush up on common algorithms, data structures, and any languages/frameworks relevant to the role at Open Systems Lab. Being comfortable with platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode can give you an edge and showcase your skills under pressure!
✨Be Clear About Your Rates and Flexibility
As a freelancer, be prepared to discuss your rates upfront. It's crucial to communicate your pricing structure clearly and whether you're open to negotiation. Do your homework on industry standards to ensure you pitch a fair and competitive rate that reflects your skills and experience!
✨Understand Their Tech Stack
Before the interview, get familiar with the tools and technologies used at Open Systems Lab. Whether it's a particular framework or a specific coding methodology, being knowledgeable about their tech stack not only shows your interest but also helps you present how you could fit seamlessly into their existing projects. Demonstrating you’ve done your homework can set you apart from other candidates!
