Senior Applications Developer

General Statement

Under direction, executes, assesses and troubleshoots software programs and applications. This includes configuring, coding, developing and documenting software specifications throughout the project life cycle. Also oversees system startups in a timely and accurate fashion and provides support to other departments as required.

Essential Job Functions

Essential job functions are fundamental, core functions common to positions in a classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are designed to be descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents may complete one or all of the job duties listed or tasks of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Directs the work of an assigned group of analysts and developers; prioritizes assigned projects; prepares work plans and project schedules for the assigned work group; monitors progress of assigned projects.
• Supervises staff in the design of computer programs or software applications, including web applications to handle specific jobs requested by users; ensures that applications comply with system capabilities and the limitations, performance standards and security requirements.
• Directs the design, development and modification of software systems.
• Collaborates with analysts and designers in the development and initiation of new software programs and applications.
• Oversees the quality assurance of program logic, data processing and error resolution.
• Develops an awareness of programming and design alternatives.
• Takes an active role in cross-departmental projects when needed.
• Evaluates user requests and performs feasibility studies considering time and cost constraints; develops a project plan or approves project plans submitted by subordinate analysts and developers; evaluates available software products.
• Provides technical expertise and makes recommendations to user departments and management regarding projects; performs technical evaluation of consultant proposals or other technical documents.
• Assigns, supervises and reviews work; ensures staff compliance with District policies and procedures including Personnel Rules and Administrative Procedures; completes performance reviews; addresses employee complaints and grievances; may recommend employment actions such as hiring, transfer, suspension, promotion or discharge.

Other Job Functions

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Environmental Conditions

Work is performed in a typical office environment and requires the use of standard office equipment including computers.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Technically fluent in at least two programming languages.
• Thorough knowledge of databases and operating systems.
• Thorough knowledge of programming languages and software used in the development of computer applications.
• Thorough knowledge of the operating characteristics and limitations of common computer hardware and software utilized by the District.
• Knowledge of open source development platforms.
• Knowledge of current Internet technologies.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques used in the documentation of application development.
• Skill in writing computer programs for various purposes.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot software.
• Ability to analyze program and application failures and identify errors.
• Ability to plan and supervise the work of a section or other organizational unit.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
• Ability to work in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from a four-year accredited college or university majoring in information technology, computer science or a closely related field and four years of experience as an applications or systems programmer.

Substitution

Graduate study in computer science or a closely related field may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis to a maximum of two years. Additional professional experience in applications programming and/or development may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis. Certification as a Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) may be substituted for one year of the required education or experience.

Promotional Requirement

• One year of service with the District as an Applications Developer.
• Civil service status as an Applications Developer.