Programmer/Analyst

(Formerly: Programmer/Analyst)

NATURE AND SCOPE OF WORK

A Programmer/Analyst provides services to departments throughout the District in the development of computer applications, including systems analysis, design and programming.

An employee in this classification meets with key personnel in response to identified needs for computer applications, conducting highly detailed studies of existing methods, procedures and uses of information. Results of these studies form a basis on which to proceed with the development of in-house systems or the selection of vendor-supplied software packages. A Programmer/Analyst examines vendors' products and recommends their acceptance or rejection.

In addition to developmental work, an employee in this classification maintains existing systems, deals with requests for changes and may plan, organize and deliver training to others.

A Programmer/Analyst reports Management.

TYPICAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Meets with department managers and other key users in response to requests for new computer applications. Clarifies purposes and objectives of requests and provides advice regarding any matters requiring further consideration.

Studies, analyses and documents manual methods, procedures and systems in use for the processing, recording and storage of information. Ensures that secondary users of information are aware of proposed changes by discussing potential impacts.

Discusses requirements with vendors to assess the suitability of available packages. Reviews packages in detail where appropriate, assesses likely degree of customizing required, evaluates overall suitability and recommends acceptance or rejection of packages.

Writes in-house programs using approved program languages, involving such tasks as determination of program logic and best methods for coding, testing and monitoring programs. Develops test plans, conducts tests and prepares and monitors production and operating systems.

Plans, organizes and delivers training to others.

Maintains existing application systems by analysing requests for changes to determine impacts, modifying existing programs, analysing program and system malfunctions and taking necessary remedial action.

Maintains an on-going process to make refinements and improvements to hardware and software applications.

Assists other departmental staff with the installation and maintenance of computer software and with the implementation of other office systems.

May occasionally coordinate the activities of other employees engaged in related work.

Performs related duties, as required.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Demonstrated expertise in third generation programming languages including Basic, fourth generation programming languages including Power House, and relational data base.

Knowledge of office organization, systems practices and procedures governing a distributed computer network.

Knowledge of the project development life cycle including the study, design, development and implementation phases.

Ability to maintain sustained attention to detail in the application of a structured approach to developing systems and writing programs.

Skill in computer programming methodology as applied to administrative and educational information systems.

Knowledge of problem definition and the ability to apply solutions to information processing systems and procedures.

Communication skills and the ability to transfer systems knowledge to users.

Ability to communicate technical knowledge of computer applications to others.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Two year Diploma in Computer Information Systems from a recognized community college or technical institute.

Four years' experience in business computer programming and systems analysis, procedural and operational documentation, and flowcharting systems.

or

Combination of training and experience where the experience is extensive and directly related to the work.

LICENCES, CERTIFICATES AND REGISTRATIONS

None