IT Research Business Systems Analyst

Job Function Summary:
Involves technology-based analysis of business practices, processes and problems; developing solutions which may involve process design, data and information architecture, software development and policy or procedural changes; creating specifications for systems to meet requirements; validating requirements against needs; designing details of automated systems; developing user interface design; planning and executing unit integration and end-user acceptance testing; may develop training materials for system implementation. May lead cross-functional teams to solve complex business or systems issues.




Generic Scope:
Technical leader with a high degree of knowledge in the overall field and recognized expertise in specific areas; problem-solving frequently requires analysis of unique issues / problems without precedent and / or structure. May manage programs that include formulating strategies and administering policies, processes, and resources; functions with a high degree of autonomy.




Custom Scope:
The Business Systems Analyst provides essential functional support and expertise for Research Administration Systems (RAS), Accounts Receivables (AR) and related integrations or connected business processes in partnership with operational units (including Accounting, Research and Academic Departments) and technical units within UCSF IT. The Business Systems Analyst provides a critical bridge between the end-users and technical development resources. This position requires an advanced knowledge of the functional and technical aspects of system support (requirements, analysis, data, documentation) that extends through the design, programming, testing and implementation phases. Problem solving and application of design principles and data structure, in combination with advanced technical knowledge facilitate the creation of solutions which improve and extend business applications. Includes full command of maintenance and operational procedures in merging the business requirements with software functionalities, and ability to isolate key design dependancies and decision points, combined with exceptional documentation and communication (written and oral) are paramount to this position. As a functional system analyst, incumbent is expected to understand and validate all system functions routinely and repetitively in order to confirm system performance and results, as well as ensure integrity during upgrades.




Responsibilities include: daily end user support and triage of highly complex system problems using incident management procedures and ticketing systems, extensive data analysis and system integrity reviews, gathering and documenting operational requirements from end users and key business stakeholders, organization and translation of requirements into functional specifications that can be coordinated with development resources, executing above activities within established Software Development Life Cycle procedures that cover system design/documentation, knowledge management, fixes, enhancements, and upgrades, as well as performing related activities for new implementations and functionality.




Support and expertise covers a wide-array of applications/services involving a core of PeopleSoft modules for Grants, Contracts, Projects, Billing, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, and General Ledger, as well as related applications/integrations that support research and functionalities applied to other areas as well (e.g. Student AR and Sundry Billing). Incumbent is responsible for creating training materials for system support and change management, and will collaborate on and often lead cross-functional teams to solve highly complex business or systems issues.




The Business Systems Analyst works with the entire Enterprise Applications Team to ensure successful implementation of software maintenance, new implementations, and support of all financial and administrative systems under the direction of the Research Admin System Manager, leveraging advanced knowledge and working with stakeholders in a predominantly independent fashion. The supported modules and business processes are subject to change due to organizational needs, and responsibilities may be realigned when the need arises.




Department Overview:
The mission of the UCSF Information Technology (UCSF IT) organization is to deliver full IT services and related systems for faculty, staff and students, UCSF Foundation, all University departments and any outside entities who have a business relationship with the University.




The Enterprise Applications team supports, develops, and integrates enterprise-wide administrative and financial systems that are used by UCSF academic departments and central offices. Services/systems provided include: Identity Management, Payroll, Recharge, PeopleSoft Financials, PeopleSoft RAS (Research Administration Systems), and others.




Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
5+ years of experience in function/technical support of enterprise software, such as PeopleSoft Grants, Contracts, Projects, Billing and AR modules.




Knowledge of database table structures, functions, processes, integration and design components. High proficiency in SQL, query creation, data extraction/organization and analysis.




5+ years of experience in an organization comparable to UCSF in terms of budget, size, complexity, scope of operation, and accounting systems.




Advanced knowledge and utilization of application design, functional/technical documentation requirements, and testing methodologies.




Demonstrated ability to gather, synthesize, and prioritize highly complex end-user requirements. Able to effectively translate, summarize, and present requirements for technical and non-technical audiences. Experience working with developers (both in-house and third party vendors).




Demonstrated understanding of technical change management procedures in supporting enterprise software.




Demonstrated effective communication and interpersonal skills. Demonstrated ability to communicate business and technical information to technical and non-technical personnel at various levels in the organization. Interpersonal and communications skills to work with both technical and non-technical personnel at various levels in the organization.




Self-motivated and works independently and as part of a team. Able to learn effectively and meet deadlines. Demonstrates problem solving skills.




Demonstrated ability to work with others from diverse backgrounds.




Minimum 5+ years of related experience