Software Application Specialist

Are you a tech-savvy problem solver with a passion for optimizing software systems? The City of Missoula is seeking a Software Application Specialist to maintain and enhance our permitting and inspection software used across multiple city divisions. This role offers a unique opportunity to provide direct support, implement business solutions, and improve operational efficiency through software customization and configuration.

As a key member of our team, you will work collaboratively with internal departments, external system providers, and consultants to troubleshoot software issues, oversee customization projects, and ensure seamless system integrations. You'll also develop SQL reports, automate tasks using JavaScript, and contribute to business process improvements that impact our community. 

If you have experience with software administration, database management, and process optimization—especially in a municipal or regulatory environment—we encourage you to apply and help shape Missoula’s digital future!

Application Requirement:
Please submit a cover letter with your City of Missoula application detailing how your skills and experience align with this role and why you are a strong candidate for the position.

Screening of applications will begin on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Applicants applying on or after this date will only be considered if a competitive applicant pool is not received. 

** The full range for the position is $31.98 - $38.09/hour and will increase each year for longevity and cost of living adjustments.

• Provide direct support and management of multiple software packages related to permitting and inspections, including software customization services for users across multiple City departments.
• Oversee project outcomes and maintain key performance indicators; manage independent in-house and consultant performed customization projects, as needed.
• Assist in determining and documenting best practice policies/procedures to ensure consistent implementation across all projects.  
• Collaborate with staff to identify opportunities for system improvements; assess and prioritize work requests; investigate and document business requirements and processes; determine configuration and design solutions; evaluate progress and effectiveness of implementation; troubleshoot issues in a production environment. 
• Support interface between software as a service (SaaS), Electronic Document Review (EDR), and Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems.
• Develop complex SQL reports via Power BI and other database reporting applications; write complex SQL queries.
• Automate tasks using JavaScript and custom JavaScript implementations utilizing proprietary libraries (Accela EMSE scripting).
• Perform rigorous testing and quality assurance in non-production and production software environments to ensure software reliability and performance.
• Translate business requirements into detailed designed specifications, facilitating effective software development.
• Assist with administration and configuration of the Accela Civic Platform and Citizen Access.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to determine current and desired business processes related, but not limited, to land use, planning, and building permits; translate user needs into detailed requirements. 
• Analyze workflows associated with core business functions, policies, and procedures; design efficient processes and/or make recommendations on appropriate technological solutions.
• Perform research and analysis of business practices, including data gaps, variances, and conflicts; run routine database tests and evaluations; modify and update coding, annual fee schedules, etc.
• Track software user licensing, maintain quality control and database security, add and train new users, set security permissions, etc.
• Collaborate with internal departments, external system providers, and software consultants for software upgrades, complex issues, and enhancement requests; troubleshoot issues and escalate through external support.
• Design, maintain, and distribute data reports, related to city permits, for internal and external consumption. 
• Translate and simplify technical requirements; write technical documentation and project plans, and document technical processes; communicate and translate process changes into technical documentation; implement changes within the department, as directed by supervisors.  
• Provide technical support to internal staff for Accela and other permit software.

• Respond to various inquiries for information and support.
• Perform other duties, as assigned.

• Knowledge of, and the ability to implement, modern office principles, practices, and methods, including automation tools and processes.
• Knowledge of, and the ability to apply, relational databases and user interfaces, including documentation, coding, testing, providing technical training documents, etc.
• Knowledge of software change management, production turnover processes, and object-oriented programming concepts and methods.
• Knowledge of, or the ability to learn and apply, case management and asset management software principles and practices, including administration and implementation of SaaS tools.
• Skill in utilizing various computer software and databases, including Microsoft 365 applications (Office, Teams, Visio, etc.), and the ability to learn job-specific applications and equipment. 
• Skill in working in all aspects of software development lifecycle (SDLC).
• Skill in SQL server reporting services (SSRS) and other web technologies, including JavaScript, HTML, etc.
• Skill in reviewing business requirements, evaluating risks, and providing data driven recommendations.
• Skill in managing multiple projects with shifting priorities and timeline demands.
• Skill in organization, time management and prioritizing with the proven ability to have keen attention to detail and accuracy in performing work with adherence to strict deadlines.
• Skill in communicating, in person and writing, with the proven ability to establish and maintain effective and positive working relationships with diverse individuals.
• Ability to research, analyze, and provide solutions to complex problems.
• Ability to understand user workflows and business needs, and how to incorporate new concepts, 
• technologies and processes into workflows.
• Ability to translate and simplify technical requirements to explain clearly to a non-technical audience. 
• Ability to learn and apply various programming languages, including Python, etc.
• Ability to maintain current knowledge, developments, and trends related to specific area of focus and/or assigned projects.

• Ability to lead and participate in a team-oriented environment, contributing to a variety of projects, while collaborating support of departmental and City objectives.
• Ability to maintain and exhibit integrity and discretion in handling the confidential and sensitive information.
• Ability to maintain and foster a culture of professionalism, adhere to departmental and City standards and specifications, and support a positive team environment.
• Ability to resolve conflicts with facilitating equitable outcomes while maintaining a calm demeanor.
• Ability to learn departmental and City of Missoula practices and procedures, including core business functions.

• Any combination of education and experience equivalent to six (6) years’ experience with supporting administrative software, process management, or another relevant field. 
• Experience with JavaScript and SQL Management Administration of Accela Civic Platform software, preferred.

The City of Missoula does not sponsor employment visas (e.g., F-1, H-1B, TM). Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis at the time of application.

Salary : $66,518 - $74,755