Research Information Technologies Specialist - Waterloo, Canada - University of Waterloo

University of Waterloo

Verified Company

Waterloo, Canada

2 weeks ago

Posted by:

Sophia Lee

beBee Recruiter

Description

Overview:

Term: 1 year

As a member of the Office of Research (OR) Information Systems Team, which is responsible for providing a broad range of day-to-day computing support to ensure effective operation of the OR information systems and business processes, the Research Information Technologies Specialist is responsible for providing technical expertise to ensure effective operation of the OR information systems.

This includes supporting the realization of institutional goals by configuring, implementing,

maintaining, and optimizing operation of the information systems that support the administration of sponsored research funding, research ethics compliance review and certification, and the processes related to protection and commercialization of intellectual property.

Responsibilities:

Configures, implements, and maintains OR information systems projects that support institutional and departmental strategic goals

Collaborates with the Information Systems Team to ensure the efficient and effective development and operation of the research information systems
Plays a key role in ensuring that research information systems are optimally configured to maintain consistent and efficient workflow, including the provision of statistical data, and that system upgrades are implemented as required
Contributes to the regular Information Systems Team review of operational and functional requirements and practices in order to identify issues and opportunities pertaining to the use of research information systems, reporting on consultations within OR; with the faculty, staff, and students who conduct research; and with research sponsors
Proactively monitors the effectiveness of OR information systems and business practices, and researches tools and techniques for their optimization, keeping management informed of significant issues and making recommendations as appropriate
Assumes project management responsibilities, including oversight of resources and time, ensuring timely completion in alignment with agreedupon objectives
Provides computer systems support to facilitate the accurate and efficient completion of OR projects, as required
Participates in ongoing crosstraining within the Information Systems Team
Supervises project contract staff and student resources as appropriate

Provides technical expertise to advance functional and technical improvements in OR information systems and business processes

Contributes functional expertise with respect to implementing research system projects, including identification of the need for upgrades or changes and, if appropriate, their implementation.
In consultation with the Manager, Research Information Systems, develops internal project scope, planning, resources, schedules, and risk
Contributes to the assessment of requests for systems development through discussion with stakeholders, obtaining clarification and ensuring accurate understanding of the requirements as well as the lifecycle
Identifies test scenarios, develops testing plans, and ensures that functional testing is conducted and documented in accordance with best practices and established standards
Conducts testing so that it occurs within established timelines and is documented so that issues and risks are assessed appropriately
Accurately implements, maintains and documents system specifications, configurations and requirements
Establishes, implements, and maintains secure, authorized access that complies with internal and external data security guidelines

Collaborates, advises, and consults

Collaborates with and advises the Information Systems Team with respect to computer systems issues
Contributes to relevant OR committees, and represents OR at universitywide meetings, as appropriate

Maintains an appropriate level of institutional knowledge, job-related expertise, and awareness of industry standards

Keeps fully informed about applicable aspects of uWaterloo research policies and processes, project management best practices, and applicable computer information systems
Proactively practices a continuous improvement approach by maintaining awareness of uWaterloo's Strategic Plan and the Office of Research Strategic Plan
Investigates and suggests appropriate continuing education opportunities that will benefit OR by expanding jobrelated expertise
Keeps abreast of trends, developments, and best practices in technology and computer systems; researches and recommends accordingly the use of new tools, systems, techniques, and approaches that could enhance the achievement of university and departmental goals

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree or extensive experience in information systems and project management
Information systems and project management experience, preferably related to a research environment
Experience leading information systems projects
Sound knowledge of technologies and methodologies related to information systems
Proven pr