Library Systems Programmer

Description

USC Libraries is looking for a user-focused, problem-solving, Library Systems Programmer to realize its strategic goals related to discoverability and access. Reporting to the Associate Director, Library Systems, the Library Systems Programmer provides programming support for the technical infrastructure of systems such as the Integrated Library System( SirsiDynix), the Digital Library (ContentDM) and other applications-based services offered by the USC Libraries. Develops application design specifications and requirements based on analysis/assessment of user needs in support of the mission and strategic goals of the USC Libraries and makes recommendations on the software that enables services offered such as the USC Libraries Web site, Homer, the USC Libraries catalog, and the USC Digital Library. Evaluates existing commercial and open source software and participates in the selection of software to enable the USC Libraries to meet their strategic goals. Develops, tests, and installs new software applications for the USC Libraries and enhances functionality of existing systems through customization and integration with commercial and open source software. Implements tools and develops code to ensure that data and metadata are successfully migrated from legacy systems to new systems and from vendor systems to local systems. Implements software to facilitate the transfer of metadata from in-house systems to consortial and/or cloud-based systems such as OCLC WorldCat, Serials Solutions Summon, and the Online Archive of California.

Responsibilities

• Designs, codes, tests, debugs, installs, documents and maintains moderately complex software applications for the USC Libraries including code that allows disparate systems to integrate interoperate.
• Interacts with users to determine their software application objectives, scope and requirements.
• Either individually or by actively participating in development process, produces the required analysis and application design based on requirements gathered from users. Produces design specification documents. This includes specifying functionality for the USC Digital Library, ILS and elements of the USC Libraries Web site.
• Uses the Internet or other resources to research solutions and locate commercial and open source software that can be used to meet organizational needs.
• Evaluates existing commercial and open source software for applicability in USC Libraries technology environment.
• Takes design specifications and writes code applying current standards and best practices. When working with metadata, applies appropriate standard in consultation with USC Libraries Technical Services personnel.
• Uses current best practices to maintain code including bug management and revision management software.
• Develops test data and routines required to test and revise application(s).
• Ensures both internally and externally developed software is thoroughly tested before release. Complies reports of test results and manages bug list.
• Detects, defines, and debugs programs whenever problems are reported or encountered.
• Prepares developer and end-user documentation for other programmers and users in accordance with internal and external standards.
• Trains users and programmers as required.
• Provides leadership in the Library Systems department, guidance and direction to other programmers including student employees, as needed.
• Reviews the work of others, as requested.
• Stays informed of new developments and technologies by reading blogs, journals and other pertinent publications, participating in appropriate online groups through social media, maintaining contact with vendors, and participating in professional organizations, meetings and seminars.

Required Qualifications

• Sound knowledge of programming and documentation procedures, programming methods, program flow charts and operator instructions as demonstrated through work experience.
• Significant experience writing applications in PERL, PHP and JavaScript and shell scripting in a UNIX/Linux environment and XML, XHTML, XLST.
• Demonstrated experience working with APIs to develop applications for end-users.
• Demonstrated experience working competently and independently on complex programming activities including evidence of self-managing and prioritizing tasks and projects.
• Demonstrated capability to analyze a problem and provide the appropriate software to solve it.
• Demonstrated experience gathering requirements and building systems for end-users.
• Demonstrated experience taking requirements and specifications to develop software applications to support organizational goals.
• Demonstrated experience communicating effectively in person and through writing with both highly technical and non-technical personnel.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating the work of others toward the completion of organizational goals.
• Experience working on teams involving end-users and a variety of technical staff.
• Demonstrated experience with building applications using existing database management systems and using SQL for data extraction and report generation from large databases.
• Experience developing applications that rely on metadata to support functionality.
• Experience developing applications to facilitate data migration and remediation.
• Experience using code repositories and bug tracking software.
• Capability to work collegially with others as demonstrated through previous course work or work experience.
• Experience using the Internet and other resources to research possible solutions or find software.

Desired:

• Experience gathering requirements from end-users and analyzing their feedback to develop specifications for library applications.
• Experience working as a programmer in an academic or library environment.
• Knowledge of library metadata standards and practices as demonstrated either by course work or job experience.
• Experience teaching or training technical personnel and/or end-users.
• Experience documenting applications for both developers and end-users.

Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree

For more information and to apply: http://jobs.usc.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=66726

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the "Trojan Family," which is comprised of the faculty, students and staff that make the university what it is.