This position reports to a Principal Administrative Analyst who is responsible for the overall operations of APIS. In addition to the above-mentioned individuals, a 50% time Computer Assistant II is responsible for providing assistance to the Programmer/Analysts.
It is the incumbent's responsibility to design, install, modify, debug, test, evaluate and document a large, complex microcomputer network of nine zones, nine file servers, 160+ nodes, spread across two buildings. The network involves multiple operating systems, multiple network protocols, micro-to-mainframe connectivity, electronic mail, remote dial-in access and 20+ software applications.
The incumbent is additionally responsible for management and maintenance of separate, independent networks of up to 10 workstations each in additional buildings.
The position is responsible for preparing cost/benefit analysis for new hardware and software, and design for alternative network solutions; all planning for network changes and improvements; and supervision of implementation of all approved changes to the network.
The incumbent must develop and implement software standards for 130+ networked microcomputers.; install and maintain operating systems (Macintosh System 6.0.x and System 7.0.x) on 130+ microcomputers; install and maintain all standarized software on 130+ microcomputers; write guidebooks and instruction manuals for using standard and custom-developed software.
In-depth knowledge of current hardware, operating systems, network software, programming languages and application software is essential.
Additional duties are as follows:
Oversee the installation of two complex imaging archival and retrieval systems as additions to the network. The incumbent is required to ensure compatibility (including modifying system configuration and system software), determine performance criteria, assess the impact on the users as well as provide the design for inclusion on the network. Subsequently, the incumbent will be responsible for the maintenance of this installation.
Provide both high-level (conceptual) and detailed technical consultation to departments and units outside the Office of the Chancellor concerning electronic communication and data exchange with the Office of the Chancellor, including: CPU systems configuration, office productivity software, electronic mail, network choice, design, and configuration, electronic connection with Chancellor's Office network, standard data formats, data conversion, security measures, and access to Office of the Chancellor electronic systems, i.e., file servers, e-mail, database systems, network hardware, etc.
Participate in joint projects with IS&T to test and evaluate new hardware and software for possible inclusion on the campus network.
Devise projects and provide direction to the Computer Assistant II in the upkeep of the network and users' workstations.
Act as the Technical Support Coordinator between the Office of the Chancellor and Apple Computer. Act as technical coordinator between other vendors and Office of the Chancellor as appropriate.
Visualize and research creative solutions to existing tasks and problems, and explore new technologies with regard to potential use in administrative and academic work situations. It is essential the incumbent stay abreast of new developments within the computer industry, especially as they affect operating systems and network software.
Programming Support
The Office of the Chancellor has a need for multiuser databases to be run in a networked environment. The incumbent works with users in designing moderately complex to complex application systems. The position is responsible for determining performance criteria and recommending database solutions consistent with the existing networked environment. This requires the specification of alternative applications software , as well as the subsequent design, installation and maintenance thereof.
The incumbent is required to build front-end Macintosh interfaces for mainframe applications. In order to enhance existing mainframe applications traditionally accessed via terminal emulation software, the incumbent will design and implement Macintosh screens that will interface with the mainframe databases. Experience with MacWorkstation, HyperCard, and MitemView is preferred.
Consulting and Training
APIS provides all microcomputer software and hardware support for the Office of the Chancellor. The incumbent must be familiar with a wide range of microcomputer software to provide consulting service to over 130 users. Additionally he/she must provide research and cost/benefit analysis for a wide range of hardware peripherals including scanners, printers, modems, system backup devices, fileservers, and multimedia devices.
The incumbent will conduct large scale training classes for the personnel in the Office of the Chancellor. This includes defining the scope of classes for various application software, determining the curriculum, planning course outlines, as well as teaching classes on the use of approximately 20 word word processing, spreadsheet, database, communication, network, desktop publishing, and presentation software packages.
The majority of the work is carried through independently as there is no other programmer with whom to consult in the office as regards microcomputing issues. This is often the case campuswide as well.
The incumbent is responsible for all facets of network operations and is expected to provide immediate solutions or workarounds to network problems/system crashes. The incumbent must also be available weekends and evenings for network maintenance.