Position Description – Database Support Specialist - Senior

(Database Analysis)

POSITION DESCRIPTION
Position Title:	Database Support Specialist – Senior (Database Analysis)	FLSA Status: Exempt
Reports to:	Systems Administrator - Manager
Department:	Information Technology and Services
Date Prepared:	June 2005

BASIC FUNCTION

The incumbent is responsible for performing the necessary activites to install and maintain the Oracle database servers, graphical user interface servers, and web application servers serving the student information system. Specific tasks related to this include ensuring prerequisites, actual installation, development of necessary support scripts, establishment and maintenance of system backup and disaster recovery activities, and insurance of system security.

NATURE & SCOPE

The Database Support Specialist is supervised by the Systems Administrator – Manager. While this position does not directly supervise any employees, the incumbent does coordinate the activities of other employees.

This position requires an extensive knowledge in a broad area of topics related to the information technology field. The incumbent is tasked with maintaining and updating the Oracle and Banner systems, which each encompass all aspects of the computer field. Significant server skills are a necessity and used often. In addition, this position requires literacy in computer programming skills and languages. Basic skills in the various web presentation languages are needed, as well as thorough understanding of software and environments.

This position requires a great deal of persistence. The task of maintaining the Banner and Oracle systems can include massive projects, and it may take several attempts to correctly complete them. Patience and discipline are needed in order to ensure success.

The incumbent must also demonstrate resourcefulness. Unfortunately, a challenge of this position is locating knowledgeable assistance within the available resources. Contractual issues and the a shortage of available knowledge leave a large role to fill for the Database Support Specialist, and he/she must be efficient with time and resources.

The Database Support Specialist must work to stay abreast of current and future needs of the user communities and the system. The incumbent must keep the system continuously updated. Furthermore, the incumbent must not only keep up with current needs but anticipate expected needs and act accordingly. This requires the Database Support Specialist to remain knowledgeable of current issues and trends in the information technology industry. This knowledge helps to forecast needs and to remain aware of new procedures.

Position Description – Database Support Specialist - Senior

(Database Analysis)

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

Ø Maintains the Banner student information system so that it is operational and accessible to faculty, staff, and students

Ø Applies upgrades to Oracle, Oracle servers, and Banner applications

Ø Installs and configures new versions of Oracle components and Banner component systems

Ø Evaluates Oracle features and Oracle related products to establish a plan for implementation

Ø Establishes and maintains sound backup and recovery policies and procedures

Ø Performs database and application tuning and performance monitoring and plans system enhancements

Ø Completes and maintains documentation

Ø Performs general technical support ad troubleshooting

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES

The incumbent makes recommendations for expenditures for hardware and software to support the Oracle/Banner student information system.

SPECIALIZED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

This position requires a four-year college degree and three to five years of experience in the field. In addition, Oracle certification or substantial training on database structures and architecture is necessary.