Business Information/Systems Specialist-Social Services

Job Summary

This position is a strategic partner within the Human Services Division, responsible for optimizing software system solutions for software systems such as Social Services Information System (SSIS) and leveraging data to drive performance, process improvement, and technology innovation. This role works across HHS, collaborating closely with business units, County IT and state agencies to be an important part of the success of major initiatives for the County such as Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (MAAFPACWDA) implementation. Understands the business unit's current business processes and procedures, software systems, and mobile deployment activities and makes recommendations to help HHS operate more efficiently and effectively. Identifies and implements ways to enhance and/or maximize existing software systems and assists business units in identifying requirements for software upgrades. Understands and operates software database reports and queries to analyze data on Division's key performance measures and indicators in coordination with the County's Delivering What Matters (DWM) initiative. Possesses knowledge of web-based applications and provides opportunities to enhance and expand web-based customer service delivery. Provides guidance in dealing with complex analysis, technical duties, and operational and capital issues related to software. Must possess skills in project management and business analysis services to continually innovate ideas for creative solutions for the HHS division.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Defines, designs, and implements business process improvements for Social Services utilizing  SSIS or other identified software systems through enhancements, integration and delivery of internal and external web-based applications and services.
   
• Understands software system gaps and opportunities in Current State Definitions (CSDs) and leads process improvement efforts (change) with the support of the business leads and Information Technology (IT) staff.
• Understands application development, database design and proposes changes to improve work efficiencies, automation and reporting. Develop and maintain queries, dashboards, and reports to support quality assurance, program evaluation and strategic planning
• In coordination with County's Delivering What Matters initiative, analyze data to identify trends, gaps, and opportunities for improvement in service delivery and system performance and makes actionable recommendations to leadership based on program outcomes, operational metrics, and emerging challenges/concerns.
• Lead and support Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) activities across Social Services programs and works closely with business units and devises ways to maximize existing software functionality and identify efficiencies and inform system redesign.
• Represent the county in Department of Human Services (DHS), Department of Children Youth and Families (DCYF), and MN-IT SSIS user groups and inter-county collaborations
• Understands employees of different disciplines with varying degrees of technical experience, helps with issue resolution and training users for successful adoption of changes to existing systems as well as new systems.
• Facilitates regular user group meetings with internal staff to identify current issues or opportunities in software systems.
• Develops, edits, and maintains operating procedures and standards manuals as requested.
• Creates and implements test plans or scripts and cases for projects; conducts appropriate and necessary testing of software (both new and adapted versions)
• Understands software release notes and plays a key role for a successful implementation by coordinating with business units, IT and vendors including testing of new software and software updates.
• Serve as a technical lead on major initiatives such as new state system development and implementation, ERP mapping/remapping, and the Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (MAAFPACWDA)
• Conducts and leads meetings as needed to inform, get approval, and implement new technologies, processes, and efficiencies with leaders in the organization.
• Must work the days and hours necessary to perform all assigned responsibilities and tasks.  Must be available (especially during regular business hours or shifts) to communicate with subordinates, supervisors, customers, vendors, and any other person or organization with whom interaction is required to accomplish work and employer goals.
• Performs other related duties as required or assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

The equivalency of a Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Public or Business Administration, Social Work, or related file.  3 years experience with Social Services Information System (SSIS) or similar case management systems and progressively responsible and complex business and data analysis experience in a medium to large government or service-industry organization.

Preference given for experience in project management, technology implementation, software administration, and process analysis and design.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The employee is under general supervision of the Deputy Director of Health and Human Services , who makes work assignments and outlines general procedures and policies to be followed.  Work is reviewed through written reports, public presentations, conferences, and results achieved.

CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES

Customer Service - Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.

Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.

Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.

Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.

Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.

Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.

Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.

Knowledge - Knowledge of application development and/or database design/data modeling methodologies and tools utilized by the County.

Knowledge in technology and industry solutions, including office automation, data processing techniques and practices, software development methodology, and forms and records management.

Knowledge of statistical, analytical, and research concepts and methods.

Knowledge of relationships between internal and external agencies and governing entities.

Knowledge of e-business applications and/or content management systems, MS Project, Microsoft Office, Visio, and graphics software.

Abilities Ability to work in a team environment and effectively work with both technical and functional staff.

Ability to remain flexible without losing focus on priorities, deadlines, and customer service perspective.

Ability to work under the pressure of time constraints and frequent interruptions.

Ability to evaluate and recommend new technologies to support the County business functions in the short and long term.

Ability to apply systems thinking to public sector programs to try to streamline and improve processes.

Ability to gather, analyze, document, and communicate information appropriately based on project goals and audience are valuable skills.

Ability to develop and present information for routine business and project analysis; ability to express complex technical concepts effectively, both verbally and in writing.

Ability to work well with people from different disciplines with varying degrees of technical experience.

Ability to initiate and implement problem resolution, escalating issues appropriately.

Ability to work independently without close supervision.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires inside work, typically in an office setting.

Physical activities include sedentary to light work:  Reaching, sitting, standing, walking, pushing, lifting, pulling, fingering, grasping, feeling, stooping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions.  Lifts and/or navigates up to 35 pounds on a routine basis in handling files and equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.