Applications Analyst JK

The purpose of this classification is to analyze, develop, implement and maintain software solutions designed to increase productivity, workflow, capabilities, efficiency and effectiveness of County government programs, services and administration including but not limited to payroll, human resources, benefits, GIS and division specific software products. Work involves meeting with users/customers, analyzing and defining system needs; developing software programs and applications; and implementing, documenting and maintaining applications. Work also involves performing project management for assigned applications projects.

Provides support and software solutions for assigned County information system programs and applications, which may include Web applications, business applications developed in-house, and/or applications purchased from vendors (i.e. intra-agency financial applications). Performs work, which involves facets of new and existing applications, from development and installation through maintenance, troubleshooting and upgrades/modifications. Defines requirements, develops specifications and documents processes for new software applications and modifications to existing software. Meets with users/customers to define user needs; analyzes business functions and work processes; determines technical needs; identifies system compatibility and capacity issues; identifies hardware and other equipment needed to support programs. Communicates with internal and external users to provide an analysis in the development of productions applications, requiring a general understanding of departmental processes. Designs, writes and tests new software applications and/or modifications/upgrades, which meet identified needs. Prepares and maintains system/program documentation. Tests prototype applications and works through operational problems. Installs and configures software/applications. Establishes user access levels, system security protocols. Designs, writes and maintains GIS script programs.

Changes the configuration of information systems in accordance with direction/modeling associated with/driven by business processes; fully tests changed performance of system and the impact on the remainder of the systems, documenting configuration changes in accordance with BCC IT standards for documenting process flows; communicates and coordinates changes with BCC IT production control staff. Designs and programs reports utilizing BCC IT standard reporting tools (MS SQL Reporting Services) and an understanding of the database structure of an information system. Technically communicates with other Applications Analysts in order to programmically access and integrate data from other applications and data sources. Fully tests new reports to assess their impact on system and network performance. Writes technical documentation to meet the requirements of BCC IT production change control. Provides training, support and assistance to users. Responds to user demands, questions and requests for assistance. Provides information and explanations regarding software and applications. Troubleshoots assigned programs/applications; resolves software application, operating system and network issues that prevent clients form accessing and utilizing information technology. Initiates and participates in system upgrades. Performs project management duties for assigned software/applications projects. Identifies project scope, milestones and sequence of project steps/actions; creates and maintains project deadlines; and documents and communicates project status. Prepares reports on project schedules and status and submits to management. Designs, develops, tests and maintains databases for assigned applications. Designs database structure and defines database environment. Assists Database Administrator with monitoring database performance; ensures data integrity; and manages data transfers, migrations, conversions and/or connections. Implements the technical methodologies for the creation and use of spatial and tabular data. Provides for the digitizing and quality control of source documents and maps. Performs maintenance of all departmental GIS data as required. Prepares Requests for proposals for new business information systems; defines system specifications and technical requirements; reviews RFP responses from vendors; and provides recommendations regarding vendor selection. Performs contract administration for assigned procured applications; ensures software applications and related services meet identified County needs and performance specifications; works with vendors to resolve performance and operational problems. Coordinates applications development, implementation, modification and maintenance work with vendors. Works in a team environment; and strives to facilitate cooperative and collaborative work environment with other divisions and County departments. Assists with hardware installation, configuring and maintenance. Stays current with rapidly changing technology and interacts with vendor support organizations. Works with vendors to resolve performance and operational problems. Schedules and oversees applications development, implementation, modification and maintenance work with vendors. Researches software and hardware technology, new developments and trends; provides advice and recommendations for system upgrades and improvements. Assists in the development of system related presentations; attends meetings and presentations as required. Operates a personal computer, telephones, copiers and other general office equipment as necessary to complete essential functions, to include the use of word processing, spreadsheet, database, or other system software. On-call work is a requirement of this position.

Bachelor’s degree in management information systems, computer science or a related field; supplemented by two years of project management, software development and applications support experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Fingerprinting required.