Senior Programmer

Job Summary

Aptive is seeking a Senior programmer that will support the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Integrated Veteran Care (IVC) Veteran Family Member Programs (VFMP) Modernization Portfolio by designing, developing, testing, implementing, and maintaining automation tools, software applications, system integrations, and workflow solutions supporting healthcare operations modernization.

This role supports enterprise modernization initiatives involving claims processing, eligibility modernization, appeals modernization, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), workflow automation, Robotic Process Automation (RPA), intake automation, data integration, and operational process optimization. The Programmer Senior will work closely with Government stakeholders, project managers, analysts, architects, developers, and operational teams to deliver scalable and efficient technical solutions that improve operational performance and user experience.

The Programmer Senior will support development and integration activities across multiple VFMP operational areas including intake, applications, claims adjudication, appeals, benefits coordination, pharmacy support, care coordination, duty to assist, and customer service operations.

This position requires strong technical expertise in application development, automation, database integration, systems troubleshooting, and software implementation within enterprise or healthcare environments.

Primary Responsibilities

Application Development & Automation

• Design, develop, test, implement, and maintain automation tools and software solutions supporting VFMP modernization initiatives.
• Develop web-based applications, client-server applications, scripts, and automation workflows.
• Support Robotic Process Automation (RPA) initiatives designed to reduce manual processing and improve operational efficiency.
• Modify existing applications and systems to support modernization requirements and workflow enhancements.
• Develop technical solutions supporting claims processing, eligibility determination, appeals modernization, intake automation, and EDI initiatives.
• Implement and integrate Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) software into existing operational environments.

Systems Integration & Database Support

• Support integration of applications, databases, and modernization platforms across VFMP operational environments.
• Develop and maintain SQL queries, stored procedures, scripts, and database integrations.
• Support data exchange, workflow automation, and system interoperability initiatives.
• Assist with integration of modernization solutions into enterprise systems and downstream operational platforms.
• Collaborate with Data Modelers and technical teams supporting data migration and modernization initiatives.

Software Testing & Quality Assurance

• Develop and execute unit testing, integration testing, system testing, and User Acceptance Testing (UAT) support activities.
• Create test cases, test scenarios, and test documentation.
• Troubleshoot technical issues, defects, and system failures.
• Analyze production issues and recommend corrective actions.
• Support defect tracking and issue resolution activities.
• Validate application functionality, system performance, and operational requirements.

Technical Documentation

• Develop and maintain:
• Technical specifications
• System documentation
• User guides
• Configuration documentation
• Test plans
• Deployment procedures
• Technical diagrams
• Ensure technical documentation aligns with VFMP governance and modernization standards.
• Support creation of Business Requirements Documents (BRDs) and technical implementation artifacts.

Operational & Modernization Support

• Support implementation and deployment of modernization initiatives.
• Collaborate with operational stakeholders to understand business requirements and workflow challenges.
• Participate in modernization planning, implementation reviews, and technical working sessions.
• Support operational readiness and post-implementation stabilization activities.
• Assist with continuous improvement and enhancement initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum five (5) years of experience in software development, application programming, or systems integration.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, Information Technology, Or related technical field
• Experience developing web-based applications, automation tools, or enterprise software solutions.
• Experience with SQL, relational databases, and database integration.
• Experience supporting systems modernization or automation initiatives.
• Experience troubleshooting technical issues and supporting production environments.
• Experience supporting software testing and implementation activities.

Desired Qualifications

• Previous experience supporting Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or Veterans Health Administration (VHA) programs.
• Experience supporting healthcare operations, claims processing, eligibility systems, or EDI environments.
• Experience with Robotic Process Automation (RPA) technologies.
• Experience integrating Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) software solutions.
• Experience supporting Agile or hybrid development environments.
• Familiarity with healthcare modernization and workflow automation initiatives preferred.

About Aptive

Aptive partners with federal agencies to achieve their missions through improved performance, streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, we support more than a dozen agencies including Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation.


We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human-centered services to optimize mission delivery and improve experiences for millions of people who count on government services every day.


Founded: 2012
Employees: 300+ nationwide

EEO Statement

Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class.

Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply.