Programmer/Analyst

Description

Job ID: 15986
Location: Vancouver - Point Grey Campus
Employment Group: Management&Professional (AAPS)
Job Category: Information Systems & Tech
Classification Title: Info.Sytems&Technlgy, Level D
Business Title: Programmer/Analyst
Department: Library - Info Sys & Tech Div
Salary: $68,731.00 - $85,915.00 (Annual)
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Desired Start Date: 2013/08/01
Job End Date: 2015/07/31
Funding Type: Budget Funded
Closing Date: 2013/07/14
Available Openings: 1


Job Summary
The Programmer Analyst designs computer application solutions for existing complex or campus-wide computer systems.

Responsible for analysing requirements, designing, programming and driving the implementation of new systems and maintaining a variety of automated systems (both vendor-supplied and locally developed) that support key projects (course reserves and other externally funded projects such as the BC Bibliography extension project, the BC Historical Newspapers extension project, the Chung/Canadian Pacific project, and the West Beyond the West portal) and, as necessary, numerous major online applications (Acquisitions, Cataloguing, Circulation, Public Access, eResource Management and others) used throughout the UBC Library. This includes providing on-going operational and troubleshooting support required for these automated systems and all associated equipment and communications networks.
Organizational Status
Reports to the Systems Librarian (Programming and Web Services Manager). Assists, and may oversee, other departmental staff in all areas of computer related questions and problems. Works with other staff within the UBC Library and from other UBC faculties or departments.
Work Performed
1. Identify technology and solutions and leads the design and development of Digital Library systems to enhance access to & promote usage of both physical and electronic resources, with a focus on the Library's course reserves system and externally funded projects such as the BC Bibliography extension project, the BC Historical Newspapers extension project, the Chung/Canadian Pacific project, and the West Beyond the West portal

2. Using a variety of vendor-supplied, in-house and other systems development tools, develops, implements, and provides support for automated library applications such as
- Course Reserves system
- Digital Library systems
- Integrated Library system
- Remote Access systems
- Inter-library Loan system

2.1. For vendor-supplied systems: identifies and clarifies user requirements, best map users requirements with functionalities provided by the systems to fully leverage on the application system and available technology. Works with vendor to establish server requirements and configures basic operating system environment and application level parameters; and, if necessary or appropriate, undertakes some development and programming using available programming tools and interfaces.

2.2. For locally developed systems: identifies and clarifies user requirements; develops overall systems design and detailed specifications, taking into consideration interface requirements to existing applications and the overall Library Systems Framework; and uses it to program and prototype applications using standard programming languages such as C++, Java, PHP, Perl, Ruby on Rails, or Python; XSL/XML, MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server and other RDMS products; Web-related packages; and vendor-supplied and in-house development tools.

2.3. Tests, debugs and refines applications; converts and loads data files; and prepares necessary systems documentation. This is often an iterative process that requires frequent consultation and collaboration with other UBC Library staff.

3. Provides ongoing operational support for all automated systems in use on campus and at off-campus locations of the UBC Library. This includes:

3.1. Regular production activities such as establishing, submitting and monitoring batch/background jobs (products, backups, file transfers, database updates, etc);

3.2. Working with UBC IT to keep online systems, equipment and communications networks up and operational at all times; diagnosing hardware problems and swapping equipment when appropriate.

3.3. Installing, evaluating, and testing new versions of vendor supplied systems.

3.4. Resolving, reporting and/or referring problems to appropriate parties in the UBC Library, vendor representatives, UBC IT, or elsewhere for resolution. The latter includes software, equipment, communications network, and information services suppliers.

4. Participates in the evaluation, procurement, testing, installation and administration of computer and communications equipment.

4.1. Preparing equipment specifications and, when appropriate, more extensive procurement documents such as Requests for Quotations (RFQ); obtaining quotations and other information from vendors or suppliers; evaluating and selecting the most suitable equipment; preparing and submitting requests for P.O's or requisitions to Library's Financial Manager. This work is often done in conjunction with the UBC Purchasing Dept. and requires extensive contact with external vendors and suppliers

4.2. Installation and testing activities include the loading and configuration of operating system and application software; installing user and other application programs; establishing the necessary communications network connections; and testing all hardware and software components to ensure that everything is functioning correctly. This work often requires scheduling and coordination with other staff in the UBC Library and with various groups at UBC IT Services and elsewhere.

5. Conduct Capacity Monitoring and Planning to ensure optimum performance of library systems

6. Maintains up-to-date knowledge of current information technology techniques and tools, especially as they apply to automated library systems.

7. Performs other related duties as required.
Supervision Received
Position is accountable to the Systems Librarian (Programming and Web Services Manager) and the Associate University Librarian, Library Systems & Information Technology. Receives supervision, general objectives, and direction from the Systems Librarian (Programming and Web Services Manager).
Supervision Given
Provides systems consulting assistance, advice and direction to other LSIT staff and provides general consulting support to other UBC Library staff and users of the Library's automated systems.
Consequence of Error/Judgement
Work is given in terms of project plan or general objectives to carry through to completion. Work is assessed through regular meetings and informal discussions. The position is expected to apply considerable technical expertise and judgment in making recommendations and/or decisions on a wide range of technical and systems-related aspects of their work. The position is expected to work either independently or in conjunction with other systems staff depending on the nature or complexity of any given task or project.

Errors in judgement and decisions will result in an adverse impact on the design, maintenance, sustainability and effective operations of campus-wide library systems. Inability to completes assignments and projects in a balanced manner and on time will adversely impact the delivery of library services and hence, the reputation of UBC Library. Inability to align work plan with the Library Strategic Plan and Vision and inability to work within the Library policies and procedures will cause inefficient use of both human and financial resources. Inability to educate users, get their support and promote usage will adversely impact the successful delivery of Library new IT systems and services. Inability to keep up with emerging technology will cause serious setbacks in the Library's leadership position in the deployment of technology.
Qualifications
Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline.    A minimum of 5 years of experience, in-depth knowledge of applications and the business requirements supporting them or the equivalent combination of education and experience.  Experience with the development, operation and maintenance of major online applications.
Familiarity with, or work experience in, libraries and/or automated library systems is desirable.  Ability to create accurate, clear, and comprehensive software documentation. Ability to work at an advanced level with programming languages (C++, Perl, PHP, Java, Ruby on Rails, Python), XSL/XML, current operating systems (Unix including SOLARIS, LINUX, Windows), database management systems (Oracle, SQL Server), communications networks (TCP/IP), and related utility programs. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Ability to develop and maintain cooperative and productive working relationships. Ability to deal with a diversity of people in a calm, courteous, and effective manner. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively under pressure to meet deadlines. Ability to work effectively independently and in a team environment. Ability to keep abreast of current developments and trends in the field of information technology.
UBC hires on the basis of merit and is committed to employment equity. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply. We especially welcome applications from members of visible minority groups, women, Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, and others with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities. Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority.