Information Systems Analyst Developer

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POST

The ideal candidate must:

·     Be a self-starter, capable of continuous self-learning, new thinking, working to very tight deadlines and committed to achieving high quality results.

·     Have an ability to take the initiative and adopt a proactive approach to the introduction of ICT-based solutions.

·     Possess a keen intelligence, strong detailed analytical ability and sound judgment

·     Be decisive and innovative.

·     Exhibit outstanding attention to detail with a proactive mindset.

·     Have a strong commitment to the implementation of change, including practical experience of the management of change, development of policies, procedures, and work practices and their implementation.

·     Demonstrate a high level of interpersonal, team-building and motivational skills including a strong record of collaboration.

·     Possess excellent planning and organisational skills.

·     Be able to deliver within budgetary constraints and identify, develop and implement value for money indicators in respect of all IT operations.

·     Have a commitment to quality customer services.

·     Have excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Candidates will be required to demonstrate a clear knowledge and understanding of:

·     The environment in which a local authority operates, its culture, key operations and a strong awareness of the strategic direction of the local government sector.

·     Current ICT systems and platforms.

·     Latest developments in Digital Technologies, awareness and trends.

·     Information governance.

·     Data protection.

·     Public service values.

·     Digital transformation processes and technologies

·     Microsoft 365 suite of applications, admin centres and platforms.

·     Microsoft Power Platform and centre of excellence.

·     Microsoft Teams calling.

·     Cybersecurity trends.

·     Artificial intelligence.

The ideal candidate must also be able to demonstrate that they have sufficient knowledge, experience and proven track record in the following areas:

·     Business process analysis and improvement.

·     Preparation of business justification documentation.

·     Requirement analysis & documentation.

·     Business systems analysis, design & documentation.

·     Procurement of new systems and services.

·     Cost benefit analysis and proposals.

·     Development of business cases, preparing project initiation documents and identifying project risks.

·     Demonstrate exemplary attention to detail with a proactive mindset.

·     Managing projects with a multiplicity of stakeholders and complex interdependencies, using recognised methodologies.

·     In leading or contributing to successful IT projects.

·     Managing the design and secure delivery of digital solutions including the digitalisation of paper-based forms.

·     Designing, creating, implementing and supporting digital forms and reports.

·     Digital technologies such as digital forms, electronic approvals, cloud solutions, automation, data analytics and reports.

·     Microsoft 365 suite of applications, admin centres and platforms.

·     Experience of the Microsoft Power Platform including the automation of business approval processes and the centre of excellence.

·     Knowledge of Microsoft Fabric and Purview.

·     Significant experience in a number of the following: -Windows Server, AVD, LANs, WANs, VPNs, Virtualisation, HCI, backup and recovery, Azure disaster recovery, SQL Server and database administration and security, ETL, firewalls, Exchange online, Active Directory, Group Policy, VoIP telephony, encryption technologies, antivirus systems, system monitoring and management, mobile device management, financial management systems, business Intelligence and analytics, cyber security, SSO, AI technologies, Enterprise level application deployment and support, Information systems/data security design and implementation.

·     Roll out patching, firmware upgrades and hardening of devices in accordance with relevant security policies including mobile device management, managing security compliance of devices and systems.

·     Provide technical support in an effective and responsive manner to staff and elected members.

·     Leading & working as part of a technical team in the delivery of ICT infrastructure and applications.

·     Proven track record of being an IT Helpdesk leader and mentor.

·     Leading, motivating and developing staff to include performance management.

·     Keep abreast of the latest information technology and digital evolution, in particular, Cloud solutions and Artificial Intelligence, and identify opportunities for such technologies to be used by the Council.

·     Vendor management, agreeing SLA’s and ensuring consistent service and value for money.

·     Understand and ensure compliance with relevant Data Protection regulations.

·     Contribute to the review and implementation of ICT Strategies.

QUALIFICATIONS

1.     Education, Training, Experience, etc.

Each candidate must, on the latest date for receipt of completed application forms:

(a)            A qualification at level 8 on the National Framework of qualifications (NFQ) major award (i.e. honours degree) in a relevant computing discipline and at least 3 years directly relevant, recent ICT hands-on experience from your employment to date*

OR

(b)            A qualification at Level 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) major award (i.e honours degree), or higher, with computing taken in the final year and at least 4 years directly relevant, recent ICT hands-on experience from your employment to date *

OR

(c)             A Level 7 NFQ major award qualification in a relevant computing discipline and at least 4 years directly relevant, recent ICT hands-on experience from your employment to date *

OR

(d)           A level 6 NFQ major award qualification in the relevant computing discipline and at least 5 years directly relevant ICT hands-on experience from your employment to date *

And

Have satisfactory knowledge of public service organisation or the ability to acquire such knowledge.

*Relevant ICT hands – on experience should include, but is not limited to: areas such as managing delivery of digital solutions, enterprise architecture. Managing security to support software and applications development projects involving a range of technologies and platforms covering web development, data management, database administration, business analysis/discovery, business intelligence and data analytics, DevOps, enterprise architecture, technical infrastructure service design and delivery, server and client operating systems and architecture stacks, telecommunications, and networking infrastructure delivery support, technical support, ICT service management. operations and server support, ICT/cyber security, mobile device management, virtualisation delivery support, database and application support, cloud computing, etc.

* Copies of qualifications must be attached to support this application. Failure to provide qualifications will deem this application invalid.

2.     Citizenship

Candidates for any of the above panels must, by the date of any job offer, be:

a)     A citizen of the European Economic Area (EEA). The EEA consists of the Member States of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway; or

b)    A citizen of the United Kingdom (UK); or

c)     A citizen of Switzerland pursuant to the agreement between the EU and Switzerland on the free movement of persons; or

d)    A non-EEA citizen who is a spouse or child of an EEA or UK or Swiss citizen and has a stamp 4 visa; or

e)     A person awarded international protection under the International Protection Act 2015 or any family member entitled to remain in the State as a result of family reunification and has a stamp 4 visa; or

f)      A non-EEA citizen who is a parent of a dependent child who is a citizen of, and resident in, an EEA member state or the UK or Switzerland and has a stamp 4 visa.

3.     Driving Licence

The Holder of the Post of shall hold a full driving licence for Class B vehicles free from endorsement/disqualification. When required to do so, holders of office shall drive a motor car in the course of their duties and for this purpose provide and maintain a car to the satisfaction of the local authority.

4.     Character

Candidates shall be of good character.

5.     Health

Each candidate must be in a state of health such as would indicate a reasonable prospect of ability to render regular and efficient service.

* Non Irish Qualifications must be accompanied by a determination from Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) to establish their comparability against the Irish National Framework of Qualifications, overseas qualifications must also be accompanied by a translation document.

PARTICULARS OF OFFICE

1.     The Post:

The post is permanent, whole-time and pensionable. A panel will be formed for an initial period of one year and this may be extended for a period of time at the discretion of the Chief Executive. The panel will be used to fill appropriate positions that may arise for its duration. Positions will be offered in order of merit as per the panel.

2.     Salary:

The salary shall be fully inclusive and shall be as determined from time to time.  Holders of the post will be paid at the appropriate point on the salary scale in accordance with the relevant Department Circular.   Starting pay for new entrants will be at the minimum of the scale.  Where the appointee has been serving elsewhere in the public service in an analogous grade and pay-scale, and will be moving without break to another part of the public sector at an analogous grade, the appointment may be made at the appointee’s current point of scale.  The rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with Government pay.

The current salary scale applicable to the post is €57,322 - €70,030 (LSI 2)

3.     Duties:

The duties of the post are to give to the local authority, and

a)     such other local authorities or bodies for which the Chief Executive, for the purposes of the Local Government Acts 2001 and 2014, is Chief Executive, and

b)    to any other local authority or body with which an agreement has been made by the local authority, or by any of the authorities or bodies mentioned in subparagraph (a) of this paragraph under the general direction and supervision of the Chief executive or such other employee as the Chief Executive may from time to time determine, such appropriate services of an executive, administrative or management nature as may be required by any local authority or body herein before mentioned in the exercise and performance of any of its powers, functions and duties to exercise such powers, functions and duties as may be delegated to him/her by the Chief Executive from time to time, including the duty of servicing all committees that may be established by any such local authority or body. The post holder will, if required, act for an employee of a higher level. The post holder may be required to work outside his/her normal job description from time to time.

The duties to be assigned include the following although this list is not exhaustive and may be reviewed from time to time as organisational needs require:

·       Operate under the direction of, and report to an IS Project Leader or to any other such person as may be determined by the Council from time to time;

Digital Transformation:

·       Collaborate with stakeholders to identify opportunities for digital transformation.

·       Analyse current business processes, systems, and workflows to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.

·       Gather and document business and technical requirements for digital initiatives.

·       Evaluate and recommend digital tools, platforms, and technologies that align with business objectives.

·       Support the Design, testing, implementation and documentation of digital systems and enhancements.

·       Deliver end-user training on digital solutions via Microsoft Teams or in person, and develop comprehensive user guides.

·       Implement data analytics and reports/dashboards.

·       Maintain and support digital solutions.

·       Create comprehensive technical documentation for all implemented solutions.

·       Develop and maintain end-user documentation including process maps, data flow diagrams, and user guides.

·       Monitor and report on the performance of digital transformation projects, ensuring KPIs and ROI targets are met.

·       Ensure that services / solutions delivered are measurable and meet business requirements and agreed criteria.

·       Facilitate change management and user adoption through training and support.

·       Stay up to date with emerging technologies and digital trends relevant to the industry.

·       Work with external vendors in implementing solutions.

·       Function as the designated technical contact for third-party software solutions and their deployment, offering specialised application support and training organisation-wide.

ICT Infrastructure and Systems:

·       Act as a senior internal ICT specialist, leading where necessary, in the delivery of solutions to complex technical issues.

·       Ensure that Offaly Co. Council’s ICT infrastructure and business systems operate efficiently, perform to agreed targets, and deliver a secure and compliant platform for the Council to carry out its business.

·       Implementation, maintenance and support of Council’s ICT infrastructure and systems.

·       Proactively develop, monitor, support, improve and manage the ICT infrastructure environment including networks, servers, cloud services, desktop/laptop and mobile systems.

·       Database design & support including performance monitoring, controlled interventions, integration, administration, and troubleshooting (SQL Server, scripting reports, ETL).

·       Support the M365 suite of applications and admin centres.

·       Business analysis, requirements gathering and specification of information systems and applications.

·       Data analytics including the collection, integration, analysis and management of information.

·       Implement, configure and develop solutions for reporting, and business intelligence within the organisation.

Security:

·       Maintain and support cybersecurity solutions. Ensure systems and infrastructure are up-to-date and secure by design.

·       Ensure the security and integrity of Council data and ICT infrastructure.

Incident Response:

·       Follow a structured process to minimise damage during security incidents.

·       Communicate effectively with the IS team, all stakeholders and external parties to manage the incident.

Business Continuity:

·       Ensure business continuity and disaster recovery technologies align with the organisation’s needs and risk management policies.

·       Develop and test disaster recovery plans to minimize downtime during incidents.

Documentation:

·       Create and maintain comprehensive technical documentation.

·       Develop and implement IT policies and procedures according to best practices

Technology Recommendations and advice:

·       Proactively monitor emerging tools, skills, techniques, and technologies. Investigate and recommend new and emerging technologies to improve, enhance, and maximise ICT opportunities.

·       Ensure recommendations align with the organisation’s goals and objectives.

·       Develop ICT skills as technology changes and follow a personal development plan.

·       Prepare business cases, when required to support decision-making.

Procurement and Compliance:

·       Manage the procurement of ICT goods and services, hardware, software, and contract management of support services.

·       Ensure compliance with licensing requirements and optimize the use of ICT licenses.

·       Utilise the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) Frameworks and other public sector tendering platforms.

Leadership and Management:

·       Provide effective leadership and management of ICT staff including implementation of the Performance Management Development System (PMDS) within the section.

·       Lead the IT Operations team as a customer-focused service function.

·       Manage the IT Helpdesk.

·       Mentor and lead ICT Staff.

·       Deputisefor the line manager when required.

·       Contribute to the delivery of theannual Information Systems Team Development Plans.

Communication:

·       Analyse, interpret, and communicate technical information and concepts effectively to management, staff, and elected members.

·       Ensure clear and concise communication to facilitate understanding and action.

Alignment with Goals:

·       Liaise with other sections of the Council to ensure ICT functions and capabilities align with business goals.

·       Support the Council’s strategic objectives through effective ICT management.

·       Implement and develop the ICT strategy/vision to support Offaly County Council’s overall Corporate Plan strategic objectives and ensure compliance with best practice standards and codes of practice.

Work Management:

·       Plan and prioritise work effectively, being proactive and self-directed.

·       Work under pressure to tight deadlines and to take a strategic approach in the delivery of key policy objectives

·       Manage and deal with conflicting demands within prescribed timelines and deadlines.

·       Implement all Health and Safety management systems.

·       Contribute to Climate Action initiatives and policies.

·       Carry out duties at all times in a fair and impartial manner that enhances public trust and confidence.

·       Undertake any other duties of a similar level and responsibilities as may be required from time to time.

As an ISAD, you will play an instrumental role in advancing the evolution of business processes and systems by leveraging digital technologies. Acting as a key liaison between business stakeholders and the IS department, this role ensures that transformation initiatives are strategically aligned with organisational objectives and deliver tangible, measurable outcomes.

4. Work Base:

Offaly County Council reserves the right to assign you to any department or premises in use by the Council, now or in the future. Changes in location of employment will not result in payment of disturbance money or other compensation. The person appointed will be required to provide him/herself at his/her own expense with the necessary mode of travel to and from work.

5. Working Hours:

The working hours at present provide for a five day, thirty-five hours working week, hours may vary from time to time.

The working hours may be reviewed at any time by the Council. The post may require flexibility in working outside of normal hours, including at weekends, as necessary. No additional remuneration will be paid in respect of such activities.

The provisions of Offaly County Council’s Time and Attendance Policy is applicable to this grade at the current time. A flexible working hours system is in operation subject to the terms and conditions of the Time and Attendance Policy.

6. Annual Leave:

The current annual leave entitlement is 30 days. Granting of annual leave, payment for annual leave and arrangement for public holidays will be governed by the provisions of the Organisation of Working Time Act, 1997 (as amended)

7. Sick Leave:

The terms of the Public Service Sick Pay Scheme will prevail.

8. Probation:

Appointees will be on probation for the first year of employment. The terms of the Offaly County Council Probation Policy will apply.