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BASIC FUNCTION:

The Applications Specialist III is the most knowledgeable and the most capable of any of the application specialists. The Applications Specialist III has a scope of knowledge and capability that includes the entire application and its environment. By contrast, the Applications Specialist II has a more limited scope of knowledge and capability, but, is able to understand major sub-areas of the application and/or environment. An Application Specialist I, the entry-level position, has the most limited scope of any application specialist. The Application Specialist I is knowledgeable and capable of specific tasks within the application, but, is often not able to relate specific tasks into a broader picture of how a sub-area functions.

Classes in this series are used to perform a variety of analytical activities in support of information processing systems. Incumbents develop problem solutions using information technology methods; conduct feasibility studies; act as project managers over information processing projects; work on analysis and support of District information processing systems; provide information center services; develop information processing standards and procedures; and do other related work.

When an Applications Specialist III functions in a team lead or project leader capacity, the Applications Specialist III will provide technical guidance to other application specialists. Similarly, the Applications Specialist II functions at the journey person level and gives guidance to the entry-level position.

Under general guidance, the Applications Specialist II supports a District information system (e.g. Student Information, or Budget and Finance) that provides information on a daily basis for District sites, departments, students, staff, or community. The Applications Specialist I provides support for a District information under specific guidance.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES:

Applications Specialist I:

Performs a variety of tasks in connection with the analysis, development, installation, implementation, procurement, or support of District information processing systems. Participates with other analysts on information processing systems studies f a complex nature broad scope.

Develops and maintains technical expertise in the application software that supports a District information system, as well as a general knowledge of the functional area itself, such as Human Resources, or Fiscal Services. Develops additional knowledge of related areas. Learns to use software and hardware tools -- including District-standard workstation and network tools -- for  tasks related to the application. Gets technical guidance from Applications Specialists II and III.

Performs tasks that will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of people who will use the application system. Assists in the identification of areas that may benefit from improvement, performs part of the analysis to develop improvement strategies, and then implements part of those strategies in a team environment. Assists with the design, analysis, maintenance, and testing of improvements.

Assists others during the consultation with sites and departments who want to streamline and improve their internal information processes. Under the direction of Applications Specialists II and III, evaluates site or department ideas, suggests improvements, and participates in their implementation. Provides documentation, training, and training materials, as needed for end-users, people training end-users, and other technical trainers. Monitors changes for desired outcome.

Ensures application system quality through compliance with various District standards or technical standards such as version control or change management. Assists in application testing and other quality control measures. Executes procedures or processes developed by other application specialists. Develops, maintains, and enhances application documentation. Functions in a team environment.

Applications Specialist II:

Able to perform all the duties of an entry-level Applications Specialists I.

and

Acts as a project leader on complex information processing studies or systems, works on complex information processing systems problems, and serves as the advanced technical specialist performing complex analytical studies and activities on complex information processing systems and projects.

Acts as technical application resource to sites and departments who want to streamline and improve their internal information processes. In consultation with other Applications Specialists, evaluates site or department ideas, suggests improvements, and participates in their implementation. Functions as a trouble-shooter, when needed, to identify and remedy application system deficiencies.

Develops additional knowledge of related areas, such as the relationship of other District information systems. Learns to use software and  hardware tools for particular tasks related to the application. Learns where to get additional support or assistance for the information system. Studies the impact of human factors on software systems. Understands that changes in one information system often cause unanticipated side effects in other information systems. Works in a team environment to mitigate unwanted side effects.

Performs rigorous testing and other quality control measures.

Develops procedures or processes that others can execute. Makes technical trade-off recommendations that consider software, logistical and operational factors with cost factors and standardization efforts. Functions in a team environment to balance technical factors with other organizational factors.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Recent progressively more responsible experience in information systems support, end-user support, cross-functional teams, and training duties. Experience must include an understanding of the functional area process and information system flow, many of the tools and utilities used, and an understanding of the environmental constraints and impacts.

and

Applications Specialist I:

A minimum of two years experience in applications development and support. A proven record of accomplishment in successful application support is essential.

Applications Specialist II:

A minimum of four years experience in applications development and support. At least two years of current duties must be at the Applications Specialists I or equivalent level. Awareness of the need to manage the vendor relationship is essential. A proven record of accomplishment in successful application management and improvement is essential.

and

A two year degree from an accredited junior college, college or university with an emphasis in information systems or computer science,

or

two years of college including courses in computer operation, system design, programming, or network operations.

NOTE:  Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for educational requirements on the basis of one year experience at a level equivalent to Applications Specialists I as equal to one year of college.

LICENSES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:  

• Hold a valid California driver’s license and provide personal automobile.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Problem solving skills

• Several information systems that support this given functional area

• Methodologies for managing technical change on a proactive basis

ABILITY TO:

• Use commonly available office automation tools, such as word processing packages, spreadsheet packages, database packages, presentation packages, and communications packages

• Perform responsible analysis without supervision

• Effectively work with program managers and site personnel

• Must be available for mandatory overtime during critical times

• Must be able to work in a manner and at a time so as not to interfere with customer productivity

• Alternative work schedules and/or telecommuting may be mandatory to prevent end-user interference

• Work independently on complex assignments

• Perform other duties as assigned

WORKING CONDITIONS:

ENVIRONMENT:

• Office environment; driving a vehicle to conduct work

PHYSICAL ABILITIES:

• Sitting for extended periods of time

• Hearing and speaking to exchange information

• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard

• Seeing to read a variety of materials and reports

• Physical, mental and emotional stamina to endure long hours under sometimes stressful conditions

HAZARDS:

Occasional contact with dissatisfied or abusive individuals

PROMOTIONAL CRITERIA FROM APPLICATIONS SPECIALIST I TO II:

This series is differentiated from other classifications in the District in that there is an automatic progression from the I to the II level based upon employee performance and meeting the requirements for the higher level.

Promotion to the next level in this series is contingent on two factors. First, the employee must posses the minimum experience, education, and certification of the next level. Second, the employee must have had at least two annual appraisals with an “above average” or better rating within the current Application Specialist level. As soon as an employee meets these two criteria, the employee will have demonstrated increased value to the District and an ability to accomplish tasks that are more difficult. At that time, the District will promote the employee to the next level in this series so that the District may make better use of these talents and experience immediately.

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