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- Tasks: Design and develop a Python desktop app to enhance DITA workflows.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking team focused on modernising content management.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility and competitive pay of £45–£55 per hour.
- Why this job: Be part of a project that transforms legacy systems into innovative solutions.
- Qualifications: Strong DITA knowledge and Python skills are essential; experience with XML is a plus.
- Other info: Part-time contract role with potential for long-term engagement until March 2026.
Location: Remote (occasional on-site meetings required) - London
Type: Part-Time Contract (20 hours/week)
Rate: £45–£55 per hour (Outside IR35)
Start Date: ASAP
End Date: March 2026
About the Role
This role focuses on the design and development of a new standalone desktop application in Python, intended to replace and enhance a legacy Excel-based workflow management tool. The new application will support and extend our structured content workflows, with a specific emphasis on DITA. Referring to building a modern Python-based desktop application that enables improved task management, automation, and integration across our DITA-based publishing pipeline. While understanding and referencing existing VBA logic may occasionally be necessary, the goal is to modernize, extend, and reimagine the current functionality rather than replicate it.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, build, and maintain a Python-based desktop tool to manage and streamline DITA workflows, replacing an existing Excel-based solution.
- Collaborate with content creators, information architects, and publishing teams to ensure the tool meets real-world workflow needs.
- Develop scripts and utilities that enhance structured content processing, publishing, and delivery.
- Integrate with the DITA Open Toolkit (DITA-OT), customize Oxygen XML frameworks, and support content automation pipelines.
- Contribute to the ongoing improvement of structured content authoring and publishing practices.
Key Skills and Experience
- Strong practical knowledge of DITA, demonstrated through hands-on development of tools and scripts that improve workflows, enable automation, and support structured content publishing.
- Proficiency in Python, especially for developing standalone desktop applications and automating publishing workflows.
- Skilled in XSL, CSS, and related technologies used in transforming and styling structured content for web delivery.
- Experience customizing and extending the Oxygen XML Editor environment, including framework development and DITA-OT integration.
- Familiarity with Git-based version control, structured content repositories, and content management systems.
- Understanding of modern programming methodologies, including Agile development, RESTful APIs, and automation best practices.
- Ability to interpret and translate legacy VBA logic as needed, with a focus on evolving it into more maintainable, scalable solutions.
If this sounds like you, apply now or send your CV to
Document Tools Engineer employer: outsource uk ltd
Contact Detail:
outsource uk ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Document Tools Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with DITA and its workflows. Understanding the intricacies of DITA will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and its requirements.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your Python skills, especially in developing standalone desktop applications. Consider building a small project that showcases your ability to create user-friendly tools, as this can be a great talking point during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the DITA and publishing communities. Engaging with others in the field can provide insights into current trends and challenges, which you can reference in your conversations with us.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with version control systems like Git. Being able to articulate how you've used these tools in past projects will show your readiness to collaborate effectively with our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Document Tools Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Python and DITA. Include specific projects where you've developed desktop applications or improved workflows, as this will show you have the relevant skills for the Document Tools Engineer role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you're passionate about modernising legacy systems and how your background in structured content publishing aligns with the company's goals. Mention any relevant experience with tools like Oxygen XML Editor and DITA-OT.
Showcase Relevant Projects: If you have a portfolio or examples of previous work, especially related to DITA workflows or Python applications, include links or descriptions in your application. This can help demonstrate your practical knowledge and problem-solving abilities.
Highlight Collaboration Skills: Since the role involves working with various teams, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Provide examples of past experiences where you worked with content creators or publishing teams to develop solutions that met their needs.
How to prepare for a job interview at outsource uk ltd
✨Showcase Your Python Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with Python, especially in developing standalone desktop applications. Bring examples of past projects where you've used Python to automate workflows or enhance functionality.
✨Demonstrate DITA Knowledge
Since the role focuses on DITA workflows, make sure you can articulate your understanding of DITA and how you've applied it in previous roles. Discuss any tools or scripts you've developed that improved structured content publishing.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to XSL, CSS, and the integration of DITA-OT. Brush up on these technologies and be ready to explain how you've used them in your work, particularly in transforming and styling content.
✨Discuss Collaboration Experience
This role involves working closely with content creators and publishing teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with others to meet workflow needs and improve processes in your previous positions.
