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SYSTEMS SOFTWARE ANALYST (#UN3 )


Definition

Under general direction, plan, install, maintain, modify and develop systems software, control systems software and network systems software for the County's computer systems and the enterprise network; provide technical support to data processing staff in solving operating system problems and other complex problems involving systems software or networks; and to perform related duties as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Positions in these two classes report to a higher level Manager or Administrator and are responsible for the development, modification and maintenance of the County's systems software programs. These classes are used in both IBM and Digital equipment environments with separate recruitment and selection processes conducted for each environment. They are distinguished from the DP Programmer Analyst series in that their mission is to ensure effective and efficient utilization of the County's computer and networking hardware rather than to develop business applications.

Systems Software Analyst: Responsible for maintaining one or more of the major systems software components. Participate in the planning and evaluation activities related to those software components.

Senior Systems Software Analyst: Responsible for developing, modifying and maintaining the most complex systems software. Participate in the planning and evaluation activities related to all computer systems and networks. Positions in this class may supervise the activities of Systems Software Analysts or in an acting capacity, function for a higher level manager as required.

Typical Tasks

Modify or update existing software to maintain systems control programs; modify new software releases to conform to County's operating systems; develop, test and maintain new software programs using various languages; adapt software packages to the County's data processing system; support applications programmers in diagnosing complex program failures; provide technical support to data processing staff or other technical users in analyzing computer system malfunctions and recommending corrective action; analyze memory displays to detect, identify and correct software or hardware deficiencies; participate in the development of specifications for software to support applications; participate in the evaluation of system software products; gather and analyze software data and prepare reports; Train data processing staff on new software systems, systems control enhancements and advanced programming techniques; and consult with vendors.

Employment Standards

Knowledge of:

Systems Software Analyst

Thorough knowledge of:

  • Principles and techniques of programming.

Working knowledge of:

  • Analytical and procedural steps for the development, modification and testing of systems software.
  • Capabilities and limitations of common software packages.
  • Computer operation.
  • For positions in an IBM environment, IBM S/370 assembly language or C, or concepts of IP network design and management.
  • For positions in a Digital equipment environment, Digital equipment control language, or concepts of IP network design and management.
  • Capabilities and limitations of hardware currently used by Santa Cruz County.

Some knowledge of:

  • System programming methods and techniques.
  • Principles of training.
  • Common causes of operating systems failures and corrective measures.

Senior Systems Software Analyst

Thorough knowledge of:

  • Analytical and procedural steps for the development, modification and testing of software programs.
  • Principles and techniques of programming.
  • For positions in an IBM environment, IBM S/370 assembly language or C, or concepts of IP network design and management.
  • For positions in a Digital equipment environment, Digital equipment control language, or concepts of IP network design and management.

Working knowledge of:

  • Systems programming methods and techniques.
  • Major systems control programs currently used by Santa Cruz County.
  • Capabilities and limitations of common software packages.
  • Common causes of operating system failures and corrective measures.
  • Computer operations.
  • Principles of supervision and training.
  • Capabilities and limitations of hardware currently used by Santa Cruz County.

Both Classes

Ability to:

  • Select, configure, test, maintain and modify systems control programs.
  • Understand and translate application programming requirements into effective systems software.
  • Assess the causes of system failure and initiate corrective action.
  • Gather and analyze complex data.
  • Conduct employee training programs.
  • Establish effective working relations with others contacted during the course of business. Prepare clear and concise written reports, procedures and specifications.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience which would provide the required knowledge and abilities listed above is qualifying. A typical way to acquire these would be:

Systems Software Analyst: Three years of programming experience, at least one year which involved substantial systems software or control program modification, maintenance or internals.

Senior Systems Software Analyst: Two years of progressively responsible experience as a Software Systems Analyst.

Special Requirements, Conditions:

License Requirements: Possession of a valid California classes C driver license, or the ability to provide suitable transportation, which is approved by the appointing authority.

Background Investigation: Must pass a background investigation which includes fingerprinting.

Other Special Requirements: Availability to work a flexible schedule as needed. This may include weekends and evenings.

Miscellaneous

PREVIOUS CLASS TITLES: No
Bargaining Unit: 41
EEOC Job Category: 02
Occupational Grouping: 84
Workers' Comp Code: 0053
Analyst: PH
Revised Date(s): 2/88, 12/96


CLASS: UN3; EST: 6/1/1983; REV: 4/1/1998;