Information Systems Specialist I - Chicago, United States - Illinois Secretary of State

Description

Office of the Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias

Job Title: Information Systems Specialist I - COBOL Programmer
Division: Systems & Programming
Union: IFT
Location: 115 S LaSalle St, Chicago, IL - Cook County

Salary: Starting at$5,366.00 monthly, commensurate with experience

Overview:
Under general direction, develops, modifies, and documents complex COBOL programs, primarily for mainframe systems. This position requires expertise in system design, including creating detailed flowcharts, system definitions, and ensuring quality through advanced auditing procedures; encompasses leading feasibility studies for system conversions, coordinating significant system and programming projects, and maintaining a thorough understanding of browser-based interfaces to mainframe programs. The job demands a deep commitment to accuracy, reliability, and efficiency in managing the technical aspects of application systems and data processing operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Architect and code new COBOL modules to meet specific requirements. Integrate COBOL applications with other systems and platforms, ensuring seamless data flow. Periodically review and refactor existing COBOL code to improve efficiency and adapt to changing business needs;
• Address and rectify any bugs or system malfunctions to ensure uninterrupted operations;
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of code changes, system modifications, and updates for future reference. Ensure all development adheres to industry standards and best practices specific to COBOL and mainframe environments;
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including business analysts and IT operations, to gather requirements and ensure system alignment with business objectives. Provide technical expertise and guidance to junior developers and stakeholders on COBOL-related matters;
• Completes necessary education, training, and certifications to stay abreast of latest technologies effecting Illinois Secretary of State information security;
• Travels as necessary for education and meetings;
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

Specific Skills:

• Requires working knowledge of systems design and implementation, including the way programs are written, compiled, and tested, the methods of operating computers, and the way data is transcribed into a form suitable for reading by computer.
• Requires working knowledge of the devices for capturing data for computers and the means available for receiving and transmitting data from remote locations to a computer.
• Requires working knowledge of the advantages and limitations of computer communication, and information retrieval systems as management information tools.
• Requires working knowledge of the methods, procedures, and techniques of conducting feasibility studies for converting to computer applications.
• Requires the ability to organize facts and findings, analyze data logically and to present results with clarity and comprehension, orally, in written or graphic form.
• Requires the ability to use and understanding of appropriate methods, tools, applications, and processes.
• Requires the ability to approach work in a rational and organized manner.
• Requires the ability to exercise sound judgement in analyzing, appraising, evaluating, and solving problems of a procedural, organizational, administrative, and technical nature.
• Requires ability to adhere to organizational standards for security, privacy, and ethics.
• Requires willingness to travel and possession of a valid Illinois driver's license as required by individual positions within the class.
• Ability to lift/carry, push/pull lbs.

Education and Work Experience:
Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to completion of two (2) years of college, with coursework in the computer science field AND 2.5 years of technical systems and programming experience as would be gained as an Information Systems Technician or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Application Process:

• Please visit to apply by completing the online application; you may also upload a resume or other attachments as needed.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Applicants must be lawfully authorized to work in the United States.
Applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital or veteran status, or the presence of a non-job-related medical condition or disability.