PALnet Application Specialist

Full Job Description .pdf

Job Summary

This full-time, exempt position of Application Specialist shares responsibilities in the administration of all PALnet applications and related components. This includes troubleshooting, configuring and coordinating of applications and services involving PALnet’s electronic resources, system databases and server platforms. The Application Specialist must have working knowledge of information management technologies. The Application Specialist must have the ability to communicate effectively with people of varying skill levels and be able to work in a collaborative team environment. This position works under the general supervision of the PALnet System Director.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Works with PALnet team and member libraries to develop and enhance PALnet application interfaces.
2. Configures, manages and troubleshoots authentication and access to electronic resources subscribed to by PALnet libraries; this includes administration of Ezproxy and RPA (authentication applications).
3. Designs and maintains procedures for e-content delivery involving eBooks, online resources, websites and portals.
4. Assists in the development and maintenance of all PALnet public interfaces; including but not limited to the OPAC as well as PALnet’s Website, Wiki and Listserv.
5. Supports the Systems Librarian in administering the Symphony ILS; including but not limited to circulation configurations, profile and policy updates and data migration duties.
6. Delivers technical support through direct interaction with member staff. This includes but not limited to: phone, email, web, training and Helpdesk (a task management system).
7. Ensures that detailed and accurate records of all maintenance and troubleshooting are kept within the PALnet Helpdesk ticket system, and are effectively communicated to member staff.
8. Supports the Systems Librarian with designing, publishing, and troubleshooting of statistical reporting through the administration of PALnet applications (Web Reporter, Directors Station, etc.).
9. Assists in the planning, development and implementation of new hardware and software for PALnet.
10. Assists the System Director with duties such as basic Red Hat Linux server management, VMware virtualization tasks and backup procedures.
11. Assists PALnet staff in providing training for member library staff.
12. Performs other related duties as may be required.

Minimum Education, Skills, and Knowledge

1. Master’s in the library science field from an ALA accredited library school with emphasis on information technology; or a Bachelor’s of Science in an IT related field with experience working in a library environment.
2. Working knowledge of at least two of the following Operating Systems: Linux, Microsoft Windows Server (2003/2008) and VMware ESXI.
3. Working knowledge of HTML, CSS, XML, SQL, Bash shell.
4. Advanced experience with Windows XP, Windows 7 and Microsoft Office.
5. Experience using relational databases, such as Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server.
6. Basic understanding of virtualization technologies, networking concepts and web server administration.
7. Ability to communicate general and technical information effectively to groups and individuals in oral and written form.
8. Ability to work in a team-oriented environment and to make individual contributions.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Experience with using and or administering authentication applications and proxy servers.
2. Experience using Red Hat Linux and Bash shell.
3. Experience with programming languages such as PERL, SQL and XML.
4. Experience in an academic library.
5. Experience in supporting an ILS in a consortia environment.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee will remain in a stationary position 80% of the time, need to occasionally move about the office and around the building, and may need to position self to maintain computers in the office, including under desks and in the server room. The employee will occasionally lift and/or move computer equipment, up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision. Constant use of computers.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by personnel assigned to this position. They are not an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by this position.

Special Requirements

Possession of a valid Driver’s License and automobile.

Work Schedule

40 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Some evening and weekend hours may be required.

Compensation

Salary based on education, experience, and existing wage rates for similar positions within the PALnet consortium. Full benefit package.

Application Procedure

Position is open until filled; review of applications will begin February 6th, 2012. Please email (preferred), fax or mail cover letter and resume to:

Human Resources Department
Baker College for Professional Services
1050 W. Bristol Road
Flint, MI 48507
Fax: (810) 766-2109
E-mail: hr@baker.edu