CITY OF RENTON CLASS TITLE: BASIC FUNCTION: Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, perform the full range of system design, development, implementation and maintenance activities related to data processing systems; provide technical advice and support to users in the proper use of hardware and/or software. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: Systems Analyst is the journey level in the series. Positions in this class, under general supervision, diagnose and solve system problems such as systems software, geographical information systems, networking operating systems or database. The work requires knowledge of systems design and development practices, concepts and methods. Guidelines are available in project work plans, in technical reference manuals and in departmental and City policies and procedures. Senior Systems Analyst performs the more complex or technical projects and may serve as project lead. Contact is primarily with system users, departmental staff and vendors to provide technical information or advice, to resolve problems and/or to coordinate work activities. REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES: * Analyze needs of clients, formulate solutions and design systems and procedures for implementation; determine whether database and software exist to fulfill user needs. * Evaluate new hardware and software; advise clients on hardware and software alternatives; set standards for selection of software and assist departments in making a final choice. * Develop and maintain systems for communication between multiple networks and workstations; integrate department automated systems with other City-wide or department systems. * Seek opportunities to improve work flow with automation application network. * Keep current on a diversity of equipment and software for work stations, both PC and central computer based, including printers, bar coding equipment and diverse types of terminals and microprocessors. * Work with departments to plan for the implementation of systems and installation of equipment; develop and design menus, tutorials and crash safeguards for user's specific applications; develop schema for information SYSTEMS ANALYST (IS-2417)
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storage of user's applications; determine training needs and work with client to arrange for training. * Respond to client request for service on problematic systems and/or equipment; troubleshoot problems and develop solutions; make minor repairs to equipment and arrange for other servicing needs. Assist in the development of software delivery and maintenance contracts between the City and software vendors. * Communicate with software vendors throughout the contract, training, implementation and support phases of software projects; provide vendor with design specifications as needed to outline new software requirements and/or changes to existing software. * Operate, adjust, modify and install a wide variety of computers, peripherals, software and communications equipment to facilitate repair, upgrade and installation of equipment. * After review and approval of program design, produce consistent solid code, conforming to accepted good practice and departmental policy and standards. Rigorously test the produced code to deliver bug free product to the end users. Perform related duties as assigned. * Denotes an Essential Job Function KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES KNOWLEDGE OF: • Analysis, design and development of complex computer and communications systems. • Fundamental programming logic and technical programming languages including Object Orient programming, and Web development languages/enviornments such as Cold Fusion, Active Server Pages, JavaScript, HTML/DHTML. • Principles of workflow charting and computer hardware such as cables, cabinetry and plug-in boards. • Multi-system communication networks. • Operation of complex and technical computer equipment and peripherals. • Technical aspects of field of specialty. • City organization, operations, policies and objectives. ABILITY TO: • Provide technical expertise and assistance to the Information Systems Director and user departments. • Operate, troubleshoot, adjust and repair computer equipment and peripherals.
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Write clear and concise user documentation. Evaluate systems and procedures and develop cost-saving alternatives. Code computer programs in a variety of programming languages. Evaluate computer hardware and software and make appropriate recommendations for purchase, repair or replacement of equipment. Lift and move computer equipment up to 40 pounds. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others. Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action. Work independently with little direction. Plan and organize work. Meet schedules and time lines.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Any combination equivalent to: Associate of Arts degree in Computer Science, Information Systems or related field and two years of experience in systems software, analysis, design, programming or network implementation. WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is performed in an office environment, but includes the ability to lift and move computer equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
August 1999