Business Information/Systems Specialist - County Administration

Job Summary

Assists multiple business units within County Administration and Transformation and Enterprise Services, in evaluating, planning, re-designing, and implementing new and existing software system solutions, primarily in the areas of County Administration and Transformation and Enterprise Services operations, records and information management, and other systems for core administrative functions. Understands the business unit's current business processes and procedures, software systems, and mobile deployment activities, and makes recommendations to help the units operate more efficiently and effectively. The position 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 obtain data on County Administration and Transformation and Enterprise Services 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 County Administration and the divisions it supports.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Defines, designs, and implements business process improvements through the use of software system enhancements and integration, and delivery of internal and external web-based applications and services, primarily including systems supporting County Administration, County Board agenda and minutes management process, and records retention.
• Acts as a system administrator for various systems used by County Administration and Transformation Enterprise Services.  This includes managing user access, comprehensive understanding of various systems and the ability to troubleshoot systems when applicable.
• Understands software system gaps and opportunities in the Current State Definitions (County Administration/Transformation & Enterprise Services) and leads process improvement efforts (changes) with the support of the business leads and Information Technology (IT) staff.
• Supports the collection, analysis, and reporting of data for County Administration's key performance measures and indicators by developing database reports and queries in coordination with the County's Delivering What Matters (DWM) initiative, as needed.
• Participates on virtual teams as required for technology implementations. Assists managers, subject matter experts, and the project team in project delivery.
• Addresses and resolves end-user business needs pertaining to software-enabled business processes.
• Creates and runs database reports and queries to obtain data for County Administration --- key performance measures and indicators.
• Trains end-users of enterprise-wide systems when required. Assesses training needs; provides direct training; develops resources; makes external resources available to staff.
• Facilitates regular user group meetings with internal and external staff to identify current issues or opportunities in software systems. (enterprise-wide systems).
• Develops, edits, and maintains operating procedures and standards manuals as requested.
• Creates and implements test plans and cases for projects; conducts appropriate and necessary testing of software (both new and update versions).
• Conducts and leads meetings as needed to inform, get approval, and implement new functions, processes, and efficiencies with leaders in the organization.
• Support County Board Room meeting technology; and assisting with sensitive administrative projects and initiatives as assigned.
• Must work the days and hours necessary to perform all assigned responsibilities and tasks. Must be available, especially during regular business hours, to communicate with other employees, 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

• Equivalency of an Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Business Administration, Quantitative or Statistical Analysis, or related field
• Three years of progressively responsible and complex business and engineering analysis experience in a medium to large government or service-industry organization.  
• A valid driver's license and a reliable form of transportation for the performance of work responsibilities are required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in project management, software administration, and process analysis and design

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The employee is under general guidance and direction from the Business Operations Manager and coordinates with the County Administrator and/or Division Directors on certain projects. Work is performed according to established department guidelines and procedures as well as accounting and auditing standards as determined by county, state, or federal regulations. The employee exercises independent judgment in implementing new work methods and procedures. May provide guidance or training to others.

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 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.

Knowledge of effective communication media, tools, and practices.
 Knowledge of website configuration and administering content management systems 
Knowledge of federal, state, and local government organization, processes, and procedures.
Knowledge of media, communications, and outreach techniques and media.
Knowledge of county policies, procedures, and labor contracts.
Knowledge of Minnesota Public Data Practices as it relates to the use and exchange of information.

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 develop and deliver training to support implementation and adoption of new business systems.

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.

Ability to use appropriate discretion in dealing with matters of a confidential nature.

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.