Job & Business Opportunities

Job Summary

This is advanced journey-level classification in the Programmer Analyst series. Under limited supervision, the Senior Programmer Analyst may supervise subordinate lower level professional and technical work activities; and independently performs the most complex and difficult professional, analytical assignments in the series.

Supervision

Supervision Received: N/A

Supervision Exercised: N/A

Distinguishing Characteristics

Positions at this level are distinguished from other classes within the series by the level of responsibility assumed, complexity of duties assigned and independence of action taken by the nature of the public contact made. Employees perform the most difficult and responsible types of duties assigned to classes within this series and may serve as the lead staff on projects.

Essential Functions

Performs complete programming activities, including analysis, design, programming and implementation; analyzes data and develops logical solutions to problems; selects programming language and software products best suited for the task; designs appropriate applications and systems; prepares diagrams to indicate operations to be performed in a program or system; develops system test plans and checks accuracy and completeness of program and system results; tests and refines programs, prepares operating instructions and procedures and writes necessary documentation; installs, tests, and documents major modifications to systems, procedures, and programs; applies fundamentals of system software; analyzes program problems and corrects deficiencies; reviews documentation and programs for completeness and adherence to standards; trains and may supervise programming staff as assigned; conducts in-service training and assists with developing and coordinating designated projects, functioning as a project lead as assigned; attends various meetings within the District; makes oral presentations; consults with external agencies and private industry to obtain information and resolve issues; conducts feasibility studies answers questions and provides information; plans, prioritizes, assigns, supervises, and reviews work of staff; provides or coordinates staff training; works with employees to correct deficiencies; participates in budget preparation and administration; prepares cost estimates for budget recommendations; analyzes and compiles information; prepares complex reports, documents and correspondence using a computer; establishes and maintains cooperative working relationships and an effective system of communication within the organization; performs related duties as assigned.

Job Demands

Work is primarily performed in an indoor office setting for eight hours per day. Physical effort is needed to lift and carry computer system equipment. Basic communication skills such as talking, seeing, and hearing are needed for frequent telephone usage. Reaching with arm and hand and finger dexterity are needed to operate computer keyboard. Patience is needed for frequent communication and interaction with employees and the public.

Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of: Principles of mainframe computer systems; electric circuit boards, processors, chips, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming; techniques of programming and coding; methods and procedures of program documentation; principles and methods of supervision, training, motivation, and counseling; computer hardware and software; principles and practices of research methodology and data analysis; techniques and procedures of software and network support for multiple users; production capacities and general capabilities of District’s data processing equipment; systems and procedures analysis and development; information needs, record keeping activities, and District functions to data processing methods; theories and application of programming tools; principles of budget monitoring.

Ability to: Independently research, analyze, and determine appropriate course of action for complex administrative and management practices, procedures, and problems; compose and prepare complex written materials, in a logical, comprehensive, and concise manner; plan, organize, develop, and supervise the work of subordinate staff; follow verbal and/or written instructions; analyze, design, program, and evaluate all systems; use hardware efficiently and effectively; write specifications for all problems; understand, follow, and enforce programming and documentation standards; write application programs in appropriate computer language; prepare test data and test and debug application programs; lead a programming team; prepare a variety of technical reports/presentations; prioritize workload effectively and meet critical deadlines; communicate effectively with the public and District personnel.

Minimum Qualifications — Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Any combination of experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education: Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Computer Programming or closely related field.

Experience: Four years of experience performing programmer duties at the professional level (or the equivalent).