SCIENTIFIC APPLICATIONS SYSTEMS ANALYST

GENERAL DEFINITION

This is systems analysis work designing, developing and maintaining computer programs and systems for engineering and scientific applications. Contact with engineers, scientists and technicians to identify system needs and parameters is a significant aspect of the work.

Assignments require the use of analytical thinking and are carried out in accordance with functional precedents, practices and policies. Employees in this class participate with engineers and scientists to develop, implement, and maintain scientific and engineering computer systems. An employee in this class may provide technical direction to network support staff or consultants responsible for hardware installation and hardware and software maintenance. Work is performed under the direction of a technical or engineering superior.

TYPICAL EXAMPLES OF WORK (ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY)

Interviews and coordinates with engineers and research scientists on engineering and scientific applications of computer programs for process control, engineering analysis and scientific research projects; evaluates characteristics of data to be collected, analysis to be performed and the interface between computer, scientific instruments and automated process controls in developing system concepts.

Analyzes existing software systems to determine the combination of programs which provide the most effective utilization of hardware and software systems; prepares system flow charts; breaks down systems into component programs; may assign programmers to prepare program flow charts, blocks, diagrams, and programs; may prepare block diagrams for the more difficult programs and systems; may write or assist in writing complex computer programs; modifies commercial programs called application packages which perform such functions as mathematical or statistical analyses or report generation; develops appropriate security measures to ensure the integrity of computer files and servers; assembles programs and proposed systems; prepares test data and diagnoses error conditions; revises system to improve operating efficiency and to correct errors.

Documents system design and operation; trains users on appropriate operational procedures; revises system to reflect changes in operations; participates in the evaluation of new hardware and software; oversees implementation of new hardware and software; may provide technical direction to network support staff or consultants responsible for hardware and software for engineering and scientific applications.

Applies Local Area Network (LAN) technology to address communication between computers, scientific instruments, and automated process controls; analyzes and recommends solutions for network issues.

Maintains communication between the Office of Innovation and Technology and field locations.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• the principles, procedures and methods used in system analysis and design as they pertain to scientific and engineering applications

• the principles and practices of electronic data processing in developing engineering and scientific applications

• the uses and capabilities of electronic data processing equipment including programmable logic controllers, distributed control systems, and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems

• computer operating systems, including telecommunications and related systems software

• engineering mathematics such as statistics

• database management systems

•

• the installation, maintenance, and enhancement of computers and servers

• one or more communication configuration systems used in connecting Local Area Networks to electronic data processing equipment

ABILITY TO:

• analyze and comprehend complex problems, the solution of which makes use of electronic data processing equipment, and to make cogent recommendations concerning their solution

• plan and direct the configuration and installation of electronic data processing equipment

• configure, install, and troubleshoot computing equipment

• apply the principles and practices of electronic data processing in developing engineering and scientific applications

• learn process control systems

• present ideas effectively, both orally and in writing

• train users on how to use scientific and engineering computer systems

• establish and maintain effective working relationships with departmental officials, vendors, consultants, users, and associates

MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE (The following statement represents the minimum training and experience standards which will be used to admit or reject applicants for tests. Applications submitted by candidates for this class will be reviewed based on training and experience requirements as approved on 1/17.)

EDUCATION:

Completion of a bachelor's degree program at an accredited college or university, with major course work in engineering or computer science, or information systems.

AND

GENERAL EXPERIENCE:

Two years of experience performing engineering computer science work involving industrial processes.

AND

SPECIFIC EXPERIENCE:

Two years of experience at the full-performance level performing engineering or computer science work which has included responsibility for the design, analysis, and development of computer-based systems for scientific or engineering applications.

OR

Any equivalent combination of education and experience determined to be acceptable by the Office of Human Resources, which has included the completion of a bachelor’s degree as indicated above.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND/OR CERTIFICATES

Possession of a valid proper class motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania during tenure of employment as a Scientific Applications Systems Analyst if required by work assignment.

Class Established 9/80

Spec Change:

CSC – 11/16

Ad. Board – 1/17