IT Application Developer - Expert

The Opportunity:
We are searching for expert-level developer to be the agency's highest level technical resource for our Member Information System (MIS), the agency's core ADABAS/Natural application. MIS is an interactive plus batch, Linux-based, real-time ADABAS/Natural application that maintains earnings information and employment history for the members of the eight retirement systems, 15 retirement plans, and the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP) administered by DRS.

This position is critical in maintaining and enhancing the agency's legacy pension system during the CORE Pension System Modernization Project, a multi-year effort to replace this aging mission-critical DRS system. You will be vital in providing ongoing support for MIS to ensure it is available for use by the agency until its replacement is complete.

Some of what you'll do includes:

• Performing day-to-day operations support for MIS, DCP, Tax Reporting, and Record Keeper (RK) interfaces, including data fixes, system analysis, and responding to business questions
• Providing technical support for MIS, including urgent issue resolution, job abends, and after-hour/weekend releases
• Serving as the designated back-up for all of DRS's core ADABAS/Natural applications (e.g., Financial System, Retirement Benefits System, and Disbursement System) when the primary designated lead is unavailable
• Serving as lead developer for annual tax reporting and tax corrections, including transition to new tax filing processes and procedures
• Providing current state analysis to support the CORE project design, including data and process analysis for annual processes, batch/online functionality for MIS, RK, interfaces, and inter-system dependencies
• Providing level of effort and proposed design for business requests, fiscal notes, and ad hoc reports
• Providing ad hoc reports in response to public records requests and internal requests
• Performing project work, as assigned, including implementing legislative mandates, business enhancements, and bug fixes
• Providing technical direction to junior developers, contract developers, and Business Systems Analysts, and reviewing and approving proposed changes.

Due to the required technical support this position provides, you must be available 24/7/365 for operational callback coverage to allow for rapid responses to late-night unexpected, time-sensitive, and/or financially impactful operational problems that can have potentially negative impacts to our customers. Additionally, some evening, pre-dawn, holiday and weekend work may be necessary to perform key processes and/or updates outside of regular business hours.

NOTE: After effectively demonstrating the ability to perform work independently, you may be eligible to telework on a full-time basis, at the discretion of the Appointing Authority and with a telework agreement in place. The ability to work remotely is dependent on the nature of the tasks and projects assigned and the presence of a remote work environment that is safe and has an appropriate level of reliable connectivity. You must live within a reasonable commuting distance (within two (2) hours including commute time) to the DRS building in Tumwater, WA, and must be willing and able to adjust your telework schedule, whenever necessary, to complete work assignments, attend mandatory meetings, trainings, etc., at the DRS facility.

Qualifications

What we're looking for (required qualifications):

• Expert-level experience working with ADABAS database utilities, tools, and the Software AG (SAG) Natural programming language. This experience is typically gained from at least ten (10) years of professional experience.
• Expert-level experience working with ADABAS/Natural pension applications. This experience is typically gained from twelve (12) years of professional experience. Experience working specifically with DRS' member information system is highly desirable;
• Demonstrated experience working with secure file transfer methods, file configurations and data transformation, including developing and supporting Extract/Transform/Load processes. This experience is typically gained from six (6) years of professional experience.

Experience can be gained through various combinations of professional employment and volunteer/personal experience. Experience may be concurrent.

In addition to the above, you must have the following:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills;
• Excellent critical thinking skills;
• Demonstrated ability to create and/or interpret complex business process maps;
• Demonstrated ability to clearly explain complex ideas;
• Demonstrated proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint (version 2016 or newer); and
• Demonstrated proficiency in the following competency areas:

Accountability
Understands the link between job responsibilities and organizational goals. Manages their own performance to meet expectations and achieve expected results. Holds self accountable for decisions, actions and behaviors.

Adaptability/Flexibility
Maintains effectiveness when experiencing major changes in work tasks or the work environment. Adapts easily to changing business needs, adjusting effectively to work within new structures, processes, requirements, or cultures to achieve successful solutions. Demonstrates openness to new and different ways of doing things.

Attention to Detail
Plans and organizes time and resources efficiently. Follows processes and procedures in the completion of work. Carefully monitors the details and quality of work and double-checks work product to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Independence/Self Management
Is a self-starter; demonstrates initiative and motivation in completing their assigned workload. Delivers on commitments made to others. Maintains focus and effectiveness; is a visible role model to others.

Peer Relationships
Finds common ground and solves problems through collaboration and candid interaction with peers. Is seen as a team player; recognizes the business concerns and the perspectives of others. Gains the trust and support of peers by maintaining and strengthening relationships.

Problem Solving
Analyzes problem to identify the root cause(s). Evaluates possible courses of action, uses reason, logic and creativity to reach conclusions. Develops timely, effective solutions that take into consideration alternatives, risks and consequences in relation to organizational goals, resources and constraints.

Results Orientation/Initiative
Focuses on results and desired outcomes and how to best achieve them. Identifies what needs to be done and proactively does it before being asked to or required by the situation. Takes on responsibilities and challenges; plans ahead for upcoming problems or opportunities and takes appropriate actions.

Commitment to Diversity
Recognizes the value of diversity. Helps create an environment that embraces and supports diversity, equity and inclusion.

Be sure to read this entire section - We promise, it'll be helpful!

How to Apply: Interested applicants who meet the qualifications and competencies in this announcement are encouraged to apply.

• To be considered for this position, please be sure to attach the following to your online application:
  (Applications without these required attachments will not be accepted).
  1. A cover letter clearly describing how your knowledge, skills and abilities align with the job duties and qualifications of this position.
  2. A chronological resume outlining your experience to-date. Please keep in mind that professional or verifiable volunteer experience may be relevant.
• Be sure to complete all sections of the on-line application and answer all supplemental questions. The work history section of the on-line application should be completed fully. Application fields that say "see resume/attachment" will not be considered. Only those applicants whose background and experience most closely matches the desirable qualifications and competencies of this position will be considered for this opportunity.

References, Personnel File Review, and Background Checks

• If you are the preferred candidate for this position, a professional reference from your current or most recent supervisor will be required;
• If you are a current or recent state employee, we will also review your personnel file as part of our selection process;
• A job offer is contingent upon completion of a background check that includes a criminal record review.

Work Authorization

• Candidates who are offered a job with DRS must possess work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future;
• DRS complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements of the federal employment eligibility verification form, I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form on the first day of employment.
• DRS does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visitwww.uscis.gov.
• Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

Why Work for DRS? At DRS, we are one team. We administer eight public retirement systems, 15 retirement plans, and the Deferred Compensation Program, and we serve over 930,000 current and former public employees in Washington. Our customers include fire fighters, teachers and school employees, state and local government employees, and public safety and law enforcement officers.

Regardless of what our specific duties may be, we are all dedicated to one purpose: ensuring our members have the information, tools, expertise and services that ensure they receive the retirement benefits earned while in public service. We foster a diverse and inclusive environment where team members are fully engaged and supported in meeting (and exceeding) our customers' expectations. All DRS leaders are focused on providing the coaching, mentoring, resources and support that team members need to be successful.

DRS offers a generous benefits package that includesmembership in the Public Employees Retirement System; health, dental and vision coverage and participation in the Deferred Compensation Program. Also, as a public service employee you may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness. (See the Benefits tab at the top of this post for more information).

Other perks include:

• Flexible work schedules
• Infants at Work Program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Access to LinkedIn Learning
• Commitment to team member safety and wellness
• Community involvement and charitable giving opportunities
• Commute Trip Reduction Program
• Free Parking & and EV Chargers available