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Lead Ruby On Rails Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Developer Sr

Evanston, IL · On-site

$99K - $112K/yr

Experience developing modern web applications using PHP/Laravel, Ruby on Rails, or similar MVC ... Understanding of modern software engineering principles including maintainability, scalability ...

Senior Site Reliability Engineer II

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$156.36K - $279.96K/yr

We use a diverse technology stack rooted in Ruby on Rails, MongoDB, Redis, Kafka, Kubernetes, and more. As a Senior Site Reliability Engineer at Braze, you will collaborate with your team and ...

You will work closely with your technical lead to shape the overall Engineering vision and roadmap ... Ruby on Rails, bonus point for Hotwire Turbo/Stimulus + Tailwind experience * Thinks critically ...

Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$100K - $150K/yr

You will work closely with your technical lead to shape the overall Engineering vision and roadmap ... Ruby on Rails, bonus point for Hotwire Turbo/Stimulus + Tailwind experience * Thinks critically ...

Site Ops Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$118K - $140K/yr

US Engineering Manager Job Overview Join an innovative and fast-paced engineering team building ... Experience with Ruby or Ruby on Rails applications. * Familiarity with cloud environments (AWS or ...

US Engineering Manager Job Overview Join an innovative and fast-paced engineering team building ... Experience with Ruby or Ruby on Rails applications. * Familiarity with cloud environments (AWS or ...

US Engineering Manager Job Overview Join an innovative and fast-paced engineering team building ... Experience with Ruby or Ruby on Rails applications. * Familiarity with cloud environments (AWS or ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL

$71.10K - $71.60K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL

$71.10K - $71.70K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL

$71.10K - $71.70K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL

$71.20K - $71.70K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL

$71.10K - $71.70K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL

$71.10K - $71.60K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL

$71.10K - $71.70K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL

$71.10K - $71.70K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$71.10K - $71.60K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$71.10K - $71.70K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

Multi-Unit Manager

Chicago, IL

$71.10K - $71.70K/yr

Uses systems identified in ROR (Red Book, line bar, guest counts, throwaways, DT timers) to drive long-term results. * Implements plans that measure and build sales and transactions. * Ensures ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lead Ruby On Rails Developer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$123.6K

$151.4K

$174.6K

How much do lead ruby on rails developer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead ruby on rails developer in Chicago, IL is $151,431.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $139,100.00 and $163,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Ruby On Rails Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Ruby On Rails Developer, you need deep expertise in Ruby, the Rails framework, and web application architecture, typically supported by a degree in computer science or substantial industry experience. Familiarity with tools like Git, relational databases (such as PostgreSQL), CI/CD pipelines, and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS) is commonly required, along with knowledge of testing frameworks like RSpec. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help you manage teams and collaborate across departments. These capabilities ensure the delivery of robust, scalable applications and effective team performance in dynamic development environments.

How does a Lead Ruby on Rails Developer typically collaborate with product managers and designers during the software development process?

As a Lead Ruby on Rails Developer, you’ll frequently work alongside product managers and designers to transform business requirements into technical solutions. This involves participating in planning meetings, offering input on feasibility and technical constraints, and ensuring that engineering efforts align with user experience goals. Clear communication and the ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders are essential. Regular collaboration helps identify potential roadblocks early, streamline workflows, and deliver high-quality features on schedule.

What is a Lead Ruby on Rails Developer?

A Lead Ruby on Rails Developer is a senior software engineer who specializes in building web applications using the Ruby on Rails framework. They are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining complex applications, as well as leading a team of developers. Their role often includes making technical decisions, ensuring code quality, mentoring junior team members, and collaborating with other departments to deliver projects on time. Strong leadership, communication skills, and deep expertise in Ruby on Rails are essential for this position.

What is the difference between Lead Ruby On Rails Developer vs Ruby On Rails Developer?

AspectLead Ruby On Rails DeveloperRuby On Rails Developer
ResponsibilitiesOversees project architecture, mentors team, manages deadlinesDevelops features, fixes bugs, collaborates on code
ExperienceTypically 5+ years, leadership skills requiredUsually 2-4 years of experience
Work EnvironmentTeam leadership, project planning, code reviewsHands-on coding, feature development
CredentialsProven Ruby on Rails experience, leadership skillsRuby on Rails proficiency, relevant certifications optional

The main difference between a Lead Ruby On Rails Developer and a Ruby On Rails Developer lies in responsibility and experience. The lead role involves overseeing projects, guiding teams, and managing deadlines, while the developer focuses on coding and implementing features. Both roles require strong Ruby on Rails skills, but the lead position demands additional leadership and project management experience.

Developer Sr

$99K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Northwestern University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

92nd of 529 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department: MCC Information Technology
Salary/Grade: ITS/81
Target hiring range for this position will be between $99,000 - $112,000 per year. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data/
Job Summary:
Northwestern University's McCormick School of Engineering is seeking a curious, collaborative, and adaptable Senior Software Developer to join our application development team.
This role focuses on designing, developing, and supporting modern web applications, internal platforms, and data-driven systems that support faculty, staff, researchers, and students across the McCormick community.
Our team maintains a portfolio of existing institutional applications while also building new systems focused on connected data, modern user experiences, automation, and emerging AI-enabled workflows. Current initiatives include the continued development of a centralized data warehouse platform, modernization of faculty systems and workflows, and exploration of AI-assisted tools and development practices.
The ideal candidate enjoys solving complex problems, collaborating closely with stakeholders, and learning new technologies in a rapidly evolving software landscape. We are looking for someone who is excited about modern software engineering practices, thoughtful system design, and building applications that improve how people work and interact with information. The ideal candidate is comfortable navigating ambiguity, taking initiative, and helping shape technical approaches in a collaborative environment.
This role balances hands-on development with thoughtful collaboration to support evolving institutional needs and modern application experiences.
This is a hybrid position with one day per week on-site and four days remote.
Specific Responsibilities:
Strategic Planning
  • Provides application development leadership for new and existing software applications.
  • Partners with user in designing features for technology.
  • Provides recommendation on how to enhance system for future growth.
  • Advises/recommends project and activities as related to system/architectural direction and strategy.
Administration
  • Develops and implements procedures for data security, management and compliance
  • Creates and maintains code documentation.
  • Creates ad hoc administrative reports.
  • Delivers system presentations and overviews.
  • Evaluates feature/upgrade/change requests and recommends action.
  • Researches new technologies to enhance current system.
Development
  • Provides technical leadership on projects.
  • Acts as subject matter expert (SME) in appropriate technologies and business domain.
  • Designs, codes, tests, debugs and documents all phases of applications development.
  • Codes software applications adhering to designs supporting internal business requirements or external user.
  • Troubleshoots complex, difficult issues.
  • Designs databases and data structures.
  • Provides recommendations on how to enhance system to meet full business requirements.
  • Determines project feasibility and how to integrate with current system.
Supervises
  • Provides work direction to team members.
  • Supervises staff such as team members, subordinates, contractors, vendors, students, etc.
  • Coaches and mentors staff.
  • Manages projects ensuring timelines and deliverables are met and meet expectations.
  • Provides input to staff assignments.
  • Provides input to performance evaluations for junior team members.
Miscellaneous
Performed other duties
Minimum Qualifications: (Education, experience, and any other certifications or clearances)
  • Bachelor's or higher degree in a major such as computer science, information technology, or related field; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
  • 4 years relevant experience required.
  • Digital repository
  • Amazon Web Services (AWS)
  • Apache
  • Code Repositories (Git, Subversion)
  • Identity Management/Provisioning
  • Information Security
  • Ldap
  • Linux Operating System
  • Mac Os X Operating System
  • Service Orienteted Architecture (SOA)
  • SQL/MySQL/Postgres
  • CSS
  • HTML 5
  • JavaScript
  • JQuery
  • PHP
  • Python
  • RubyOnRails
  • SAS
  • XML
  • Laravel
  • FERPA
  • Critical Thinking
  • Data Warehouse Design/Develop
  • Database Design/ Data Structure
  • Debugging
  • Decision Making
  • Judgment
  • Problem Solving
  • Troubleshooting
  • Code Documentation
  • Collaboration And Teamwork
  • Facilitate Collaboration
  • Functional Documentation
  • Iterative & Incremental Development
  • Workflow Development & Documentation
Other:
  • CRM Applications, Centralized Data Platforms, Analytics & Reporting Systems
  • RESTful APIs, Identity & Authentication Integrations, GIT
  • Systems thinking, AI Workflow, Technical Documentation, Data Modeling
Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)
  • Experience developing modern web applications using PHP/Laravel, Ruby on Rails, or similar MVC frameworks with PostgreSQL/MySQL or comparable relational databases.
  • Strong understanding of relational database design including relationship types, ideal data storage formats and index performance.
  • Knowledge of modern browser front-end development using HTML, CSS and JavaScript, responsive design principles, and modern web standards.
  • Strong familiarity with Git-based version control workflows and collaborative software development practices.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and resolve application, integration, and data related issues across multiple systems.
  • Understanding of modern software engineering principles including maintainability, scalability, accessibility, security, and documentation.
  • Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to adapt, learn, and contribute within a rapidly evolving technology landscape.
  • Demonstrated interest in continuous learning, thoughtful problem solving, experimentation, and modern development practices.
Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
  • 3+ years of professional software development experience building modern web applications or software systems.
  • Experience working with AI-assisted development tools, coding assistants, or AI-enabled development workflows.
  • Experience experimenting with AI agents, LLM APIs, automation tooling, or intelligent application features.
  • Experience designing or supporting PostgreSQL-based systems, data pipelines, analytics systems, or centralized data platforms.
  • Experience designing user-centered applications with thoughtful UI/UX practices.
  • Experience working within higher education, research, or highly decentralized organizational environments.
  • Familiarity with cloud platforms and modern hosting environments.
  • Experience contributing to modernization efforts involving legacy systems and connected application architecture.
Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)
  • Exceptional interpersonal, collaboration, and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and contribute effectively within a collaborative development environment.
  • Ability to apply critical thinking to technical, operational, and user-centered challenges.
  • Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Strong curiosity about emerging technologies and willingness to explore modern development approaches.
  • Ability to identify practical opportunities for automation and workflow improvement.
  • Collaborative mindset focused on thoughtful problem solving, continuous learning, experimentation, and knowledge sharing.
  • Understanding of user-centered design principles and modern application experiences.
  • Ability to navigate ambiguity and contribute to evolving technical solutions and modernization efforts.
  • Interest in modern software engineering practices, AI-assisted workflows, and continuous improvement.
Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.
Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.
Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .

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