Description
SUMMARY
The Principal Programmer serves as the technical leader for custom software development across the organization. This role is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining enterprise-level software solutions that integrate with our core ERP systems, reporting platforms, and EDI environment. The Principal Programmer provides architectural direction, establishes development standards, mentors team members, and partners with business and IT leaders to deliver scalable, secure, and reliable technology solutions that support business growth.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Lead the architecture, design, and development of enterprise software solutions, system integrations, custom reporting, and EDI applications.
- Define and maintain software development standards, coding best practices, and documentation requirements to ensure consistency and long-term maintainability.
- Serve as the technical lead for complex development projects, providing guidance from solution design through implementation and ongoing support.
- Evaluate business requirements and collaborate with stakeholders to recommend scalable, efficient, and sustainable technology solutions.
- Maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize existing custom applications, integrations, reports, and EDI processes.
- Partner with ERP vendors, third-party providers, and internal business teams to troubleshoot issues, implement software patches, and coordinate system upgrades.
- Conduct code reviews and mentor developers by providing technical coaching, knowledge sharing, and leadership in modern development practices.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, system architecture, development standards, and support procedures while expanding the Welch IT playbook.
- Identify opportunities to improve system performance, automate business processes, and reduce technical debt through continuous improvement initiatives.
- Assist with disaster recovery planning, application security, and system reliability for custom-developed solutions.
- Provide technical leadership for critical production issues, including after-hours support for high-priority outages when necessary.
- Support Welch University initiatives by developing and delivering technical training for custom applications, reporting tools, and development standards.
- Provide advanced (Level 2/Level 3) support for custom software, reporting platforms, and EDI systems.
- Research and evaluate emerging technologies, tools, and development methodologies to improve organizational capabilities.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
- AA or BS in Technology or Computer Sciences or similar education required.
- Certifications in various programming languages preferred
Experience
- 5+ years of experience in a similar level role
- Enterprise software architecture
- Ability to learn Claude Code/Codex/OpenClaw
- Technical leadership and/or mentoring
- Develop standards and governance
SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES
Strong written and oral communication.
Organization and attention to detail.
Analytical and problem-solving skills.
Time management.
Systems analysis.
Mathematical and deductive reasoning.
Critical thinking.
Active learning.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the functions of this job.
Physical Requirements:
Must be able to lift 50 pounds on a repeatedly on a regular basis.
Must be able to stand for 8-10 hours a day.
Bend, stand, squat, twist repeatedly.
Work Environment:
Moderate noise (i.e., business office with computers, phones and printers, light traffic).
Ability to work in a confined area.
Ability to sit at a computer terminal for an extended period time.
Typical office environment.
Disclaimer: This list does not represent all physical demands. Descriptions are representative of those that must be met by employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the jobs’ essential functions.
Welch Packaging is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran
Skills Required
- AA or BS in Technology, Computer Science, or similar
- 5+ years of experience in a similar level role
- Enterprise software architecture experience
- Technical leadership, mentoring, and coaching experience
- Experience designing and implementing system integrations and EDI solutions
- Experience developing standards, governance, and documentation for development teams
- Ability to provide Level 2/Level 3 support for custom software and reporting platforms
- Experience with disaster recovery planning and application security
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Organizational skills, attention to detail, analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Certifications in programming languages
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds repeatedly
- Must be able to stand 8-10 hours a day and perform repetitive bending/squatting/twisting
What We Do
Welch Packaging is a family-owned network of custom corrugated manufacturing companies founded in 1985. They specialize in creating the 'Ultimate Corrugated Experience' for local customers, providing industrial and retail-ready packaging solutions, as well as assembly and fulfillment services. Operating across the Midwest, Midsouth, and Mid-Atlantic regions, they focus on making a difference in their customers' businesses and local communities.
.jpg)
