SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER

GENERAL DEFINITION

This is intermediate performance level systems programming work installing and maintaining moderately complex databases/telecommunications networks/operating systems network. Work is performed in a multi-system computer environment that includes multiple central processing units and a multi-line telecommunications network. An employee in this class monitors and evaluates operating system efficiency and makes any required modifications and adjustments to maintain efficient system usage and operation. Work may include systems programming responsibility for a component of large complex systems programming projects. Maintaining operating system security and integrity and hardware configuration appropriate to assigned operating systems is a significant aspect of the work.

Work is performed under the supervision of a technical supervisor.

TYPICAL EXAMPLES OF WORK (ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY)

Installs, tests, evaluates, modifies, and maintains databases/telecommunications network operating systems, and general purpose programs or utilities.

Analyzes existing software systems to provide most effective configurations; monitors usage and performance efficiency of computer system hardware and software components; analyzes computer system malfunctions for technical software or configuration control problems; establishes procedures and documents use of operating software products and utilities.

Allocates and manages direct access storage space for the most efficient storage of on-line data; controls, allocates, and manages systems libraries and files; participates in developing technical training materials; provides technical assistance to data processing analysts and programmers on job control language, technical standards, and programs products, utilities and executive routines; participates in new hardware and software planning and evaluation.

Plans, designs, and installs databases/telecommunications network/operating systems; analyzes current and planned network usage; modifies capacity or line mix to ensure adequate capability; monitors network usage; makes adjustments; plans, installs, and maintains network diagnostic and performance capability programs.

Analyzes data communication problems and alternative methods of solution; develops and documents standards and specifications for computer systems, hardware and facilities; tests systems and evaluates results; remains current on developments in data communications and processing fields; consults with programmer analysts, operations managers and their designees and other users on data processing problems as they relate to system programming assignments; fulfills administrative reporting requirements.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• the principles, practices and techniques used in systems programming

• systems programming, analysis and design as applied to a multi-system computer and telecommunications environment that includes multiple central processing units

• the current uses, capabilities and configurations of electronic data processing equipment, such as multi-central processing units, telecommunication networks and such supporting devices as disk drives, controllers, printers, card readers, etc.

• computer operating systems, such as DOS/VSE, VAX, MVS and VM/CMS or HP-MPE and MPE-X

• telecommunications operating systems, such as BTAM and VTAM or MTS, IMF and MRJE.

• time sharing systems, such as CICS or TSO/E

• at least one database management system, such as DL/1, IMS, TOTAL, IMAGE or ADABAS

• either VSAM or KSAM file access methods

• the methods and techniques used in the evaluation and analysis of software, hardware and application systems to achieve efficient system utilization

• source code language programming and appropriate job control languages

• the methods and techniques used in protecting systems and data security, and maintaining network control

• practices and techniques used in project control and analysis

SKILL IN:

• the use of such source level languages as BAL, COBOL, FORTRAN, SQL, PASCAL, SPL, NATURAL or RAMIS

ABILITY TO:

• apply the principles, practices and techniques of systems programming to the installation, modification and maintenance of databases, and operating and telecommunication systems

• evaluate and analyze system programming problems and provide resolutions

• apply systems programming principles, practices and techniques to maintain the efficiency and efficient operation of assigned databases, telecommunication and operating systems, and systems programming projects

• identify compatible sub-system software for use with existing operating systems

• think logically and sequentially

• maintain the security and integrity of assigned databases, and operating and telecommunication systems

• evaluate the configuration of system hardware and software, and make appropriate recommendations

• deal effectively with associates, vendors and users

• present ideas and complex technical information clearly, both orally and in writing

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 5/24.)

EDUCATION:

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

NOTE: Completion of an industry recognized certification or additional experience may substitute for the education requirement on a year for year basis.

AND

GENERAL EXPERIENCE:

Two years of systems programming or programmer analysis experience in a multi-system data processing environment that includes multiple central processing units and a multi-line telecommunications network, one year of which has been above the first trainee level in the systems programming specialty.

OR

Any combination of education and experience which has been determined to be acceptable by the Office of Human Resources which has included the general experience.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS

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

Class Established 5/79

Spec. Revision 3/89

Latest Spec Revision and consolidation with 1E35

CSC - 7/08

Ad. Board – 8/08

Latest Spec Change:

CSC – 4/24

Ad. Board – 5/24