IT Job Descriptions

SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

Mainframe –    

Codes and maintains business applications.  Develops and supports large-scale batch or high volume transaction environments that require IBM/MVS mainframe processing power.  Programs in business-oriented languages such as COBOL and CICS, or fourth generation languages.

Midrange –       

Develops and supports enterprise-oriented applications or general business applications.  Programs in business-oriented languages such as COBOL and RPG/400, or fourth generation languages on IBM AS/400 computers.

Client/Server/GUI –

Analyzes and designs programming applications for a client/server architecture.  Knowledgeable of ODBC, Windows NT, Macintosh, NOVELL, OS/2, UNIX, APIs and RPCs.

Systems Engineer –

Responsible for the design, development and implementation of computer software in Windows or UNIX using C/C++, Assembly and other low-level operating system software.  Develops GUI-based applications, systems software and embedded software.  Analyzes business engineering and scientific problems; develops well-defined procedures in the delivery of practical systems solutions.  Typically holds a degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering.

BUSINESS SYSTEMS

Business Analyst –

Works with management and users to analyze, specify and design business applications.  Develops detailed functional, system and program specifications using structured design methodologies and computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools.  Must have business sense and communications skills.  Works with both IS and strategic planning business teams.

Consultant –

Facilitates organizational change while providing subject matter expertise on technical, functional and business topics during the development or implementation of automated systems.  Performs business requirements analysis, recommends selection of software, develops proposals for consulting services and manages implementation of projects at client sites.

EDI Analyst –

Introduces EDI standards and technology.  Makes decisions for information construction and selects resources of EDI processing and application expansion.  Coordinates processing and transmission schedules plus mapping of standard data formats.  Generally serves as a key contact for trading partners and value-added network consultants.

Systems Analyst –

Devises and designs computer system requirements for the solution of moderately difficult business problems, or for segments of more complex problems, and formulates procedures for their solutions.  Plays a major role in the development and implementation of major systems.

SPECIALISTS

Database Analyst –

Uses data modeling techniques to analyze and specify data usages within an application area.  Defines both logical views and physical data structures.  In the client/server environments, defines the back end.

Database Administrator –

Administers and controls an organization’s data resources.  Uses data dictionary software packages to ensure data integrity and security, recover corrupted data and eliminate data redundancy; also uses tuning tools to improve database performance.

LAN Administrator –

Installs and maintains local area networks’ hardware and software.  Troubleshoots network usages and computer peripherals.  Installs new users.  Performs system backups and data recovery.  Resolves LAN communication problems.

Network Engineer –

High-level LAN/WAN technician.  Plans, implements and supports network solutions between multiple platforms.  Installs and maintains local area network hardware and software.  Troubleshoots network usage and computer peripherals.  CNE certification is a plus.

PC Software Specialist –

Works with microcomputer applications such as word processors, spreadsheets, database management systems and electronic mail.  Also, evaluates, installs and supports PCs and various printers, graphics and storage peripherals.  Adds and trains new users.  Performs backups and data recovery.  Often works in a Help Desk environment fielding calls from users.

PC Technician –

Responsible for the overall coordination, control and maintenance of personal computers within a company to ensure compatibility and integration with company strategies.

Systems Administrator/Manager –

Install operating systems, database management systems, compilers and utilities.  Monitors and tunes systems software, peripherals and networks.  Installs new users, creates batch administration scripts and runs systems backups.  Resolves systems problems.

Voice Analyst –

Designs voice networks integrating telephony hardware and network services.  Supports systems development in telephony intensive applications such as Interactive Voice Response (IVR) and Call Centers.  Experienced in traffic engineering and carrier management.  Understands network hardware and is familiar with PBX and ACD systems planning.

Data Communications Analyst –

Installs, maintains and troubleshoots data networks.  Utilizes one or more of the following:  T-Is, TCP/IP, Fiber Optics, SNA or Frame Relay for communications.  Assists users with problems related to connectivity.  Analyzes data flow.  Configures modems, DSUs, multiplexers and routers.  Utilizes network tools such as Netview and Netspy.

WAN Administrators –

Evaluates, selects, installs and maintains wide area networks.  Provides WAN transport services.  Performs analysis and diagnostics.  Works with network hardware like routers, hubs and multiplexers. Familiar with WAN routing protocols such as SLIP and X.25.

Systems Programmer –

Installs and maintains mainframe operating systems, communications software, database management software, compilers and utility programs.  Provides technical support to applications programmers, hardware/software evaluation and planning.  Creates and modifies special-purpose utility programs.  Ensures systems’ efficiency and integrity.

Edp Auditor –

Analyzes the system function and operations to determine adequate security and controls.  Evaluates systems and operational procedures and reports findings to senior management.  Writes ad hoc report programs using fourth generation languages and specialized audit software.  Senior Edp Auditors have from 4 to 6 years experience in the field.

Technical Writer –

Works directly with systems analysts and programmers to write and edit program and systems documentation, user manuals, training courses and procedures.  Also prepares proposals and technical reports.

Systems Architect –

Designs and develops all aspects of major information systems.  May also determine the tools, languages and databases to be used.  Typically becomes involved in major new development or re-engineering efforts.

MANAGEMENT

MIS Director/CIO –

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) is accountable for directing the information and data integrity of the enterprise and its’ groups.  The CIO is also in charge of all information service functions, such as all data centers, technical service centers, production scheduling functions, help desks, communications networks (voice and data), computer program development and computer systems operations.  He or she is responsible for maintaining the integrity of all electronic and optical books, including review of computerized and manual systems; information processing equipment and software for acquisition, storage and retrieval; and definition of the strategic direction of all information processing and communication systems and operations.  He or she provides overall management and definition of all computer  and communication activities within the company.  This includes responsibility for providing a leadership role in the day-to-day operations of the Information Services functions, as well as, providing direction as the enterprise expands through internal growth and external acquisition.

Manager of Business Applications –

Plans and oversees multiple projects and project managers.  Works with CIO and senior management to determine systems’ development strategy and standards.  Administers department budget and reviews project managers.

Applications Development –

Works on programs that support the administrative or operational functions of the company.  Programmers who work on payroll or accounts payable systems are Applications Programmers.

Technical Services Director –

Plans and oversees the research, evaluation and integration of new technology, systems development, methodologies, data administration, capacity planning, training and technical support.

Project Manager –

Plans and oversees the development and support of a specific application or functional area.  Administers performance appraisals, salaries, hiring and budgets.

Project Leader –

Has managerial skills as well as technical skills.  Responsible for coordinating resources, schedules and communications for systems development projects.  Develops project schedules and assigns tasks.  Occasionally performs both systems analysis and programming, but is usually there to provide technical assistance and leadership.  Serves as contact with user groups and systems management.

COMPUTER OPERATIONS/DATA CENTER

Data Center Manager –

Plans and directs all computer and peripheral machine operations, data entry, data control scheduling and quality control.

Operations Support –

Analyzes and supports computer operations by controlling production applications monitoring system resources and response time, and providing first-line support for operational problems.

Communications Operator –

Monitors and maintains communications network operations.  Troubleshoots communications hardware and software problems, as well as, transmission problems.

Help Desk Analyst/Customer Service Support –

Provides user/customer telephone support for computer systems.  This could include software, hardware or telecommunications systems.  Duties may include troubleshooting hardware and software problems, assisting users with applications software and providing limited user training.

INTERNET

Internet Project Manager –

Oversees the ongoing development, implementation, coordination, maintenance and overall strategy of a company’s website.  Increases awareness of products and services offered by coordinating them with placement of information on the site.  Requires specialized knowledge of Web technologies, HTML, graphics design and layout.

Internet Engineer –

Maintains link between the Internet provider and the website.  May also maintain connectivity between Internet and LAN/WAN sites within the company.  Keeps abreast of new technologies to provide more services.  May be responsible for e-mail and intranet operations, firewalls and security administration.

Web Programmer –

Responsible for program design, coding, testing, debugging and documentation.  Devises or modifies procedures to solve complex problems concerning equipment capacity and limitations.

Web Graphic Designer –

Responsible for all graphical content, creations and development of websites and other integrative on-line environments.

Webmaster –

Proficient in HTML design and experienced in the installation and configuration of a variety of HTTP servers.  Working knowledge of PERL/C/Python scripting.  Strong design background with advanced database interface experience.  Strong object-oriented programming and JAVA applet authoring background.