Business Applications Support Specialist

JOB SUMMARY: Provide ESC-20 clients with software support and services for TxEIS/ASCENDER business applications.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

JOB KNOWLEDGE
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university preferred, with a major in business administration or related field; High School Diploma required.
Two to three years of school/service center experience related to business office support required.
Experience with school business procedures and problems, especially in the area of human resources, payroll, financial accounting (Financial Accountability Resource Guide), fixed asset accounting, warehouse operations and the business aspects of cafeteria operations.
Excellent problem-solving skills and creativity associated with business data support.
Demonstrated excellence in training and presentation skills, including development of training materials.
Knowledge of state and federal rules and laws related to business applications provided by ESC-20.
In depth knowledge of the TxEIS/ASCENDER business software applications.
Proficiency with standard functions within electronic applications such as MS Office (e.g., word processing, electronic spreadsheets) and e-mail.
Proficiency with computers (PCs and/or MACs) to include desktop management, file management and operations, and working in a network environment.
Exceptions to these requirements will be considered based on exemplary skills, training, and record of success.

PRODUCTS AND OUTCOMES
Make decisions and develop a mechanism to provide software support and services to users of all ESC-20 business systems applications.
Ensure requests for services and support are promptly handled and that proper output and information is provided.
Ensure clients are aware of the services offered by the service center.
Conduct workshops and user training on business applications at the service center, and/or at the local education agency (LEA)s (support sessions).
Ensure problems reported or requests for changes by users for special programming are understood and reported properly to the direct supervisor.
Interpret client’s view of problems and communicate these to the Texas Computer Cooperative (TCC) using the TCC helpdesk application.
Gather user requirements for modifications and enhancements to the business software system and provide to TCC through the helpdesk application.
In cooperation with the other team members and the direct supervisor, develop an annual calendar of processing and training dates.
Participate in TCC user acceptance testing as appropriate.
Serve as a resource to users in identifying file or data problems and suggest methods for corrective procedures.
Ensure billing for special programming and other on-request services to clients is submitted in a timely manner.
Ensure business system users are informed of system updates/enhancements.
Continuously monitor the progress of client districts, identify problems encountered, and use problem-solving skills to determine the appropriate action for resolution.
Read and interpret technical material and applicable state laws and rules.
Provide detailed documentation for software enhancements prior to release to clients.
Test software prior to its release to clients to ensure accuracy and that changes are made that are advantageous for client use.
Provide requested reports related to the review and evaluation of a client’s business/finance data elements.
Actively solicit user feedback.
Submit recommended designs, modifications, and enhancements to direct supervisor.
Offer professional assistance to other staff members when appropriate.

INITIATIVE
Demonstrate initiative, persistence, and a high level of energy and enthusiasm for assigned responsibilities.
Demonstrate the use of sound judgement and ingenuity in problem solving in non-routine situations to meet the needs of the Center and clients served.
Participate and engage in learning experiences that enhance job knowledge and skills, and that build capacity in assigned area.
Remain current through self-study, self-discovery, tutorials, and classes, on new developments and techniques to support the software.
Identify technologies, process improvements and strategies to improve product quality and work efficiency.
Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability to new situations and assignments.
Set challenging goals and reach a high standard of performance despite any barriers encountered.
Work under minimal supervision.

COMMUNICATION/HUMAN RELATIONS
Communicate effectively and interact professionally.
Build professional relationships with colleagues and clients, maintaining regular and continuing interaction in meeting shared outcomes.
Demonstrate self-confidence, professionalism, and a high level of customer service skills (e.g., courtesy, patience, diplomacy, etc.) at all times and, in particular, when under stressful or unprecedented situations while working with colleagues and clients.
Demonstrate an attitude of quality service when working with current or potential ESC-20 clients.
Work collaboratively in a team setting with TCC staff to determine the best approaches and solutions to problems.
Promote and support organizational change.
Communicate clearly and thoroughly, both in written and oral reports, changes and/or enhancements made to systems assigned to this component.
Keep supervisors informed.
Maintain confidentiality and security of program materials and information, in accordance with FERPA regulations.

SUPERVISION AND ORGANIZATION OF STAFF
None

BUDGET RESPONSIBILITY
None

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS & ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals.
Posture: Prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting.
Motion: Repetitive hand motions including frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching.
Lifting: Occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds).
Environment: May work prolonged or irregular hours; occasional travel; exposure to low or intense illumination.
Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Required to be on call after hours in order to ensure that client’s critical jobs are completed.
Function within the policies and procedures of ESC-20.
Accept other responsibilities as assigned.
Dress and groom appropriately for the ESC-20 work setting.
Travel independently to fulfill responsibilities of the position; local and overnight travel are required.
Serve at the will of the Executive Director.

Deadline to apply: December 20, 2024