NORTHWEST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
Job Title: Data Architect / Programmer (0433B)
Wage/Hour Status: Exempt
Reports to: Director of Data Services
Pay Grade: T30
Dept. / Campus: Data Services
Duty Days: 235
Date Revised: 5/2025
Primary Purpose:
Develop, implement, and support on-premise and cloud-hosted software systems and applications, including programming, data management, and integration maintenance. Design and modify system applications to enhance information management across the district. Provide documentation as needed and lead the implementation of new software solutions. Engage with departments and divisions to address data needs, system access, and operational support.
Qualifications
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in programming, information systems, or equivalent experience.
- Minimum of three years of experience in:
- Programming and systems administration
- SQL development in a database environment
- Software implementation, database design, performance tuning, and managing data file structures
Technical Proficiency:
- Operating Systems: Proficient in Linux and Windows Server environments
- Programming Languages & Tools: PHP, WebDev, C, JBoss, SSIS
- Database Tools: Informix, Genero, Cognos
- Development Platforms: Microsoft SQL Server, SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), Visual Studio
- Reporting and Dashboard Tools: Cognos, Crystal Reports, JasperReports, SSRS, Tableau, Looker Studio, Power BI are a plus
- Productivity Software: Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel and Google Workspace, including sheets
Functional Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of database management systems and data file structures
- Familiarity with student information systems and financial systems (preferred)
- Ability to develop and maintain technical documentation
- Experience with application troubleshooting and software problem resolution
- Understanding of Data Privacy, FERPA, and HIPPA
Soft Skills:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders including campus staff, administrators, and vendors
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Analyze client operations, applications, and existing systems to determine database structural requirements and align with business objectives.
- Ensure the performance, integrity, and security of database systems by installing, configuring, maintaining, and upgrading software and integrations.
- Identify and resolve database, production, and application development issues; respond to user inquiries and maintain system reliability.
- Perform all phases of software development—analysis, design, coding, testing, and implementation—to support district initiatives.
- Conduct systems analysis to define technical requirements and ensure developed software meets both user and technical specifications.
- Develop, maintain, and document technical specifications, user guides, SQL Views, Stored Procedures, and Functions for internally developed applications.
- Design and program application solutions using Agile Scrum methodologies where feasible to promote efficiency and quality.
- Maintain and enhance administrative applications (e.g., payroll, finance, HR), and support end users by clarifying processing needs and offering technical assistance.
- Collaborate with stakeholders and users to gather programming requirements, translate requests into functional specifications, and provide support across departments.
- Create and maintain reports and dashboards; continually evaluate processes for improvement opportunities to enhance operational efficiency.
- Coordinate with vendors on system enhancements, issue resolution, and integration of business application improvements.
- Keep Direct Supervisor and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) regularly informed of project status, milestones, issues, and completion timelines.
- Ensure compliance with applicable federal/state laws and local policies and regulations.
- Compile, maintain, and file all required documentation, reports, and records in physical and/or digital formats.
- Support third-party and vendor systems, including data analytics platforms, and ensure alignment with internal systems.
- Evaluate available information to consistently determine and implement effective solutions.
- Demonstrate the ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as collaboratively within a team environment to meet departmental and district goals.
- Occasionally work extended or irregular hours to support critical district operations.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
N/A
Equipment Used:
Personal computer, printer?
Working Conditions:?
- Maintain emotional control under stress, work with frequent interruptions
- Ability to communicate appropriately and effectively (verbal and written); interprets policy, procedures, and data; coordinates district functions
- Repetitive hand motions and prolonged use of a computer
- Occasional district-wide and statewide travel
- Occasional prolonged and irregular hours
- Frequent/prolonged sitting, standing, bending, stooping, twisting, pulling, overhead reaching, and keyboarding
- Position requires the ability to lift 25 pounds to waist high
This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned, alternative methods of performing your duties, or skills that may be required.
Read Full Description