03630
(Competitive)
SYSTEMS CONSULTANT (TESTING AND EVALUATION)
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
The work involves responsibility for coordinating procedures for effective utilization of computerized testing and evaluation services by the establishment of intercommunications between the Regional Computer Center and member schools to facilitate the various aspects of pupil testing, evaluation and related statistical reporting. The incumbent acts in a liaison capacity to provide training in the use of existing services, to investigate and evaluate potential use of application features and to identify and assist in the resolution of problems relating to the use of systems data. Several Systems Consultant positions exist within the computer center with specific and different credentials required for each position depending on the systems application area. These areas include Financial Services, Student Services, Testing and Evaluation and Computer Assisted Instruction. Each consultant position is distinct and the responsibilities of one application area do not overlap the responsibilities of any of the other areas. This position is also distinct from the programming, analytical or technical support classifications in that there is no involvement in the development of the computer system, its language, specifications, operations or design. The major emphasis of the position is in the use and function of the specific data applications of the system and how these can be utilized to meet the current and potential needs of the user. General supervision is received from an administrative superior, with work being reviewed through conferences and consultation on specific problems. The incumbent is expected to exercise independent judgment and initiative in evaluating training needs relating to data processing utilization and system application procedures and coordinating training services to provide for maximum utilization of available systems in meeting user objectives. Supervision is not a critical function of the position but may be exercised over the work of a staff involved in control of the data processing product. Does related work as required.
Evaluates and reviews the testing and evaluation needs of the school districts as they apply to pupil testing and administrative reporting and identifies methods of meeting these needs and other pupil evaluation and reporting objectives through the use of existing applications, subscription to additional services or by requesting new or expanded services from appropriate computer center technical or support personnel.
Studies user application operations and identifies areas of potential improvement, assists the user in developing objectives for improving utilization and identifies and explains any additional available services which could be utilized in meeting their pupil testing and evaluation needs and objectives.
Organizes and provides formal and informal training sessions and workshops for school district personnel and computer support service personnel involved with computerized testing and evaluation services to develop and maintain skill in the utilization of the system application, to review existing, expanded or modified applications or to introduce new application features.
Reviews customer complaints, concerns and application problems and investigates their causes; identifies problem source and requests remedial action to be taken by operations and programming staff.
Reviews existing application procedures to insure compatibility with acceptable data processing control and with the requirements of personnel in the district.
Initiates requests for new or expanded‑services to appropriate computer center personnel and coordinates the collection and analysis of detailed specifications to insure that all data and documentation requirements are satisfied.
Assists in the development and review of user documentation, training materials and related forms.
Attends professional and business meetings as a representative of the computer center and the local district user.
Assists in the development of work schedules to meet district processing needs and requirements.
Good knowledge of the use, function and potential of computerized pupil testing and evaluation services as they apply to instructional and administrative management in an educational environment.
Good knowledge of the capabilities involved in the input and output of computerized data.
Working knowledge of the pupil testing and evaluation needs and objectives as they apply to a school district's instructional and administrative reporting policies and procedures.
Working knowledge of the function and operation of the computer terminal, its language and codes.
Ability to communicate the systems service goals and objectives to individuals and groups to stimulate their interest and participation.
Ability to train user personnel in the operation and application of new modified or expanded procedures of a computerized testing and evaluation system.
Ability to organize and present thoughts and procedures in a clear, concise and thorough manner.
Ability to gather and analyze information and draw logical conclusions.
Ability to lead discussions and make formal presentations.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school district personnel and computer center staff.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Promotion:
One (1) year of permanent competitive class status in the title of Information Systems Coordinator; or, two (2) years of permanent competitive class status in the title of Systems Training Assistant.
Open Competitive:
A. Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a baccalaureate degree and two (2) years of full time work experience, or its part time equivalent, as described in (A1) or (A2) below:
1) Work experience in educational testing and measurements, teaching or guidance counseling, or a closely related field which must have included responsibility for the use and function of computerized pupil testing and evaluation records; or,
2) Work experience in application utilization of computerized testing and evaluation systems which must have included responsibility for analyzing, evaluating, organizing or planning the use, or potential use of computerized testing and evaluation services and records in the resolution of problems, improving statistical reporting or in meeting work objectives; or,
Six (6) years of full time professional or paraprofessional level work experience, or its part time equivalent; two (2) years of which must have included work experience as described in (A1) or (A2) above; or,
An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B) above.
Note: Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Master’s Degree in educational tests and measurements, statistics, education or a closely related field may be substituted for up to one (1) year or work experience.
Possession of a valid New York State driver’s license at time of appointment.
11/2009 Revised