Frontend Prototype Developer

POSITION OVERVIEW

NBME is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Frontend Prototype Developer to support the development of early-stage prototypes and experimental tools used in assessment research. In this role, you will work closely with NBME's Construct and Research teams to design and implement rapid prototypes that explore new assessment formats and user interactions. Much of this work is "greenfield," allowing you to independently build functional research tools using Shiny, low-code/no-code technologies, and modern engineering frameworks such as Angular and AWS.

You will also collaborate with product engineering teams to adapt and extend existing production systems for later-stage efficacy studies, ensuring research findings can transition smoothly into product development. This is an ideal opportunity for a self-directed engineer who enjoys problem-solving, learning new technologies, and working at the intersection of research and innovation.

This role has been designated as primarily remote, meaning it requires little to no onsite attendance. While this role can be designated as remote, you are offered the flexibility to select if you prefer to work primarily remotely, hybrid, or onsite. We're open to considering candidates located in DE, MD, NJ, PA, and VA.

At NBME, we continue to innovate and improve how we fulfill the evolving needs of the healthcare community. This commitment starts and ends with the people at NBME. By recruiting and empowering talented individuals from various disciplines and backgrounds, which includes professionals with diverse life experiences, abilities, and perspectives, NBME can take a well-informed, robust approach to advancing medical education and assessment for years to come.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate closely with research teams to understand study goals, gather requirements, and design functional prototypes that support early-stage assessment innovation.
• Independently develop rapid prototypes using tools such as Shiny, survey platforms, low/no-code environments, and modern front-end frameworks.
• Modify and extend existing production systems (Angular, AWS) to support efficacy studies, experimental groupings, and customized research conditions.
• Conduct testing, validation, and iteration of prototypes to ensure they meet research objectives and usability expectations.
• Contribute to product development workflows through hands-on coding, technical exploration, and quality assurance support.
• Evaluate emerging prototyping tools and technologies, recommending those that align with research needs and accelerate innovation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure continuity between research prototypes and production software.
• Communicate progress and technical considerations clearly to research, engineering, and product stakeholders.

QUALIFICATIONS

Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency in multiple programming languages and frameworks, including strong front-end development skills (Angular 2+, TypeScript, JavaScript, HTML, CSS).
• Experience with rapid prototyping using low-code/no-code tools, Shiny (or willingness to learn), AI-assisted development tools, and related platforms.
• Strong understanding of algorithms, data structures, system design, and software architecture.
• Ability to work independently with limited direction, making sound technical decisions in ambiguous or exploratory environments.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to pivot quickly and manage multiple concurrent research efforts.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with academic researchers and product engineering teams.
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying current with emerging technologies and prototyping approaches.

Experience

• 8+ years of professional software development experience spanning the full SDLC.
• Experience building prototypes, experimental interfaces, or research-oriented software strongly preferred.
• Experience with AWS services such as Lambda, S3, DynamoDB, SQL, Node.js, and CDK is a plus.
• Familiarity with source code control concepts and UI/UX design principles.
• Experience with R is a plus

Education

• Bachelor's degree in computer science or a related technical field required; equivalent experience will be considered.

About NBME

NBME is a not-for-profit organization that specializes in the creation of assessments and learning tools for physicians and health professionals. Our mission is to advance assessment of these professionals to achieve optimal care for all, supporting the development of a highly effective, diverse and compassionate health care workforce.

Founded in 1915, NBME develops and manages the United States Medical Licensing Examination® with the Federation of State Medical Boards. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of assessment products for every stage of the medical school journey and provide assessment services to various health profession organizations.

We are dedicated to advancing innovative assessment approaches through research, collaboration and contributions to the medical education and assessment communities. In 2024, we expanded our assessment capabilities to include simulation through the acquisition of MedVR Education.

Learn more on NBME's website.

NBME's Community Collaborations and Contributions

NBME believes that a key path to meeting our mission is collaborating with and supporting our communities. Our Community Collaborations and Contributions programs provide resources and recognition to medical educators and researchers advancing the field of assessment throughout their careers. In addition, we invest in fee assistance, scholarships and pathway programs to aid learners and help support increased representation in health care. Headquartered in Philadelphia, NBME also gives to local organizations that advance health equity and access and positively impact social determinants of health.

Compensation we are offering for this position is at $110,560 - 149,256/year. Please note that the offered rate for this position typically aligns with the minimum to midrange of this grade, but it can vary based on the successful candidate's qualifications and experience, department budget, and an internal equity review.

The NBME offers competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a rewarding work environment. Excellent Benefits include: Healthcare, Dental, Prescription, and Vision plans; 401(k) w/match, Tuition Reimbursement Plan, Commuter Benefit: Public Transit or Parking options. Remote Friendly Workplace.

NBME is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability.