The Applications System Analyst I will support the Research and Performance Management team by designing, building, and managing cloud-based analytical infrastructure to support the unit’s research and reporting needs and increase the overall efficiency of the unit’s operations.

The role requires working knowledge of many different types of software and data and the ability to bridge the gap between technical and applied data solutions. Technologies that will be used include but are not be limited to SAS Data Management and Analytical Tools, SQL Server, and Azure and/or AWS Cloud Services. The primary focus of this position will be on data infrastructure management and data process and quality management.  

Data Infrastructure Management:

• Develop a working knowledge of all primary data sources.
• Creating and update longitudinal and relational data views of data for use in reporting.
• Monitor and analyze the performance of data views.

Data Process and Quality Management:

• Establish standards and best practices for documenting workflows and organizing work products.
• Communicate and monitor use of standards by the RPM team.
• Discover and implement automation opportunities to replace manual processes.
• Identify, develop, and employ data validation and monitoring process to ensure that data anomalies are detected and addressed.
• Identify, research, and triage data quality issues in collaboration with other units within the NCCCS System Office.
• Makes recommendations to improve efficiency of the unit.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/AND ABILITIES:

• Fully understands, exhibits, and maintains a high level of technical skill or knowledge in the area of application development and system integration.
• Detailed understanding of assigned data and the use of its systems via developing through test plans/scenarios.
• Skilled in enterprise systems and familiarity with best business practices related to systems
• Knowledge of security protocols for systems utilized.
• Knowledge of the current architecture of systems and information to troubleshoot problems.
• Understanding of the business functions and system needs of unit to develop working specifications for software application solutions.
• Ability to manage timelines, financial resources, and the activities of others to achieve success and to monitor project progress and provide updates to managers.
• Experience in the entire development process including specification, workflow analysis, workflow diagrams, data modeling, documentation and quality assurance.
• Coordinate and direct computer systems and application design and development.
• Understanding of the business functions and system needs of unit to develop working specifications for software application solutions.
• Experience in assessing user needs through discussion with customer conveying technical information to client and promote understanding of relevant issues.

PREFERENCES:

• Technical Knowledge - Understands the principles of data architecture, data warehousing, data querying, data manipulation, data analysis, and reporting. Has knowledge of code development and structure and an understanding of one or more languages (e.g., SQL, Java, C++, Perl, Python, R, etc.). Has the ability to design and build relational databases, longitudinal data views, and data validation processes using SAS tools. Has exposure to cloud operations and functions in Azure or AWS.  Understands the architecture of NCCCS data. Understands and employs established security protocols for systems used.
• Planning and Organization - Has experience managing projects in a team environment. Can clearly communicate goals, set priorities, and articulate and execute a plan to achieve a desired outcome. Has the ability to prioritize work duties, responsibilities, and assignments. Possesses strong problem solving and critical thinking skills. Is naturally curious, asks questions, and can perform root cause analysis. Has the ability to learn new technologies.
• Teamwork - Formally or informally coaches others in the unit; proactively acts to make others successful; is able anticipate and proactively resolve conflicts; seeks out others including clients in creative problem solving; selects appropriate information and best method or format when presenting information in writing or verbally
• Customer Service - Has experience in assessing end-user needs. Establishes a positive relationship by exercising an appropriate action in a timely manner.
• Communication - Able to translate complex technical issues into understandable terms for non-technical users; understands underlying dynamics of a situation and adapts communication accordingly.