Research Foundation - Programmer/Analyst

Location: Albany, NY Category: Research Foundation Posted On: Fri Nov 1 2024 Job Description:Title: Programmer/AnalystUnit: Natural Heritage ProgramPosition location: Albany New YorkSalary: $59,000 - $64,000 depending on qualificationsPROGRAM BACKGROUNDThe New York Natural Heritage Program (NYNHP) is a program of the Research Foundation for the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY- ESF) whose mission is to facilitate the conservation of New York's biodiversity by providing comprehensive information and scientific expertise on rare species and natural ecosystems. NYNHP works in partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and other state, federal and private organizations to collect, assemble, manage, analyze, and distribute information on New York's biodiversity. NYNHP values work-life balance and a supportive workplace.POSITION DESCRIPTIONThe Programmer/Analyst will work as part of the development team responsible for systems administration including managing server infrastructure; the full software development lifecycle for full-stack web applications; and database management. Team members work together to ensure that NYNHP's systems are secure and up to date; to provide technical support to NYNHP staff; and to work with staff to meet the organization's growing information technology needs. While the team shares duties, this position will focus on the systems admin duties, particularly utilizing Linux to deploy and manage web applications. This position offers opportunities to learn new technical skills and obtain project management experience while working with enthusiastic colleagues dedicated to conserving our native biodiversity.NYNHP uses Django, Python, R, PostgreSQL with PostGIS, MS Access, Linux, Shiny Apps, ArcGIS and other software, and has in-house developed applications for field data collection on Android devices. NYNHP uses a Debian/Python/Django/Postgresql/Nginx/uWSGI tech stack on a hosted web server for web applications such as the NYNHP website and Natural Heritage Conservation Guides, and a legacy Drupal/LAMP tech stack.DUTIESSystems AdministrationAdminister Linux servers running Debian, ensuring security, performance, and uptime for applications hosted on cloud infrastructure (DigitalOcean and HostGator). Manage server backups. Perform regular system updates and patches.Deploy and manage web applications, including using Nginx and uWSGI.Secure network communications by implementing and managing security protocols such as firewall configurations, data encryption, user access controls including SSH keys.Develop, manage, and document application deployment processes.Full-Stack Software DevelopmentFront-End: Build responsive and accessible user interfaces using JavaScript, HTML, HTMX, and CSS.Back-End: Design and maintain secure and scalable backend systems including REST APIs using Python and Django to support data-heavy applications and services.Database Administration and Data Analysis: Develop, maintain, and back up databases including PostgreSQL, MySQL, ArcGIS Online (AGOL) and Microsoft Access, ensuring optimal performance, data integrity, and scalability. Implement Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) tools.Data Reporting and Analysis: Design database queries and scripts to generate reports; to extract, share, and analyze data; and to deliver timely and accurate information to staff and partners, using Python, SQL, and R.Employ automated testing and Git in all software development. Document all development steps.Assist in the migration from legacy systems to current tech stacks.Ensure seamless integration of mobile app data collection and of ArcGIS tools with existing systems.Technical SupportProvide technical support, troubleshooting, and training to staff on applications.Coordinate the setup of computers and tablets, including software and driver installation, often in collaboration with New York State Division of Information Technology Services.Utilize a Helpdesk ticketing system for managing staff requests and issues.Oversee legacy systems that require manual data processing and uploading.Project ManagementAssist in managing projects throughout the entire development life cycle, including needs assessment, defining project scope, setting goals and objectives, and overseeing deployment and ongoing maintenance.Participate in code review to ensure security, quality, and maintainability.Manage timelines and stakeholder communications.Job Requirements:Required Qualifications:Associate degree or higher. The education requirement may be satisfied by an equivalent combination of education and experience.At least one year of experience in systems administration, including performing regular system updates and patch management, including security patches.Experience working with cloud web services (e.g., AWS or DigitalOcean).Experience with Web Servers/Reverse Proxies (e.g., Nginx or Apache).Experience with Application Servers (e.g., uWSGI or Gunicorn).Experience managing Linux systems, including filesystem permissions, service monitoring, debugging, and restarting services as needed.Experience web application deployment and managing web traffic, ensuring security, performance, and uptime.Experience writing shell scripts to automate routine system tasks and streamline administrative processes.Experience securing network communications by implementing and managing security protocols such as firewall configurations, data encryption, and user access controls.Experience with object-oriented programming language (e.g., Python).Preferred Qualifications:Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Effective communication that enables collaboration with technical and non-technical staff, including providing technical support.Ability to learn, document, and teach new technologies.Experience in managing multiple projects; time management and task prioritization skills.Experience in database administration, including SQL (PostgreSQL and/or MySQL).Experience in front-end technologies (e.g., JavaScript, CSS, HTMX).Experience in back-end technologies, especially Django.Experience with web content management systems.Experience in reverse engineering legacy systems.Some familiarity with and interest in biology, ecology, and conservation helpful, and/or. familiarity with Natural Heritage Programs and their methodology helpful.Additional Information:SUNY-ESF and the Broader CommunityESF is a specialized college within the 64-campus SUNY system, and a Carnegie R2 "High Research Activity" Institution that consistently earns high rankings in US News and World Report, Forbes, Princeton Review, and other national college guidebooks. With a total enrollment of about 2,200 undergraduates and 400 graduate students, combined with the immediate proximity of Syracuse University and Upstate Medical University, ESF provides an intimate, small-college atmosphere within a vibrant, large-university setting. ESF's extended campuses include more than 25,000 acres of forest properties, both close to Syracuse and across the Adirondack Park, which provide numerous opportunities for experiential coursework, research, and public outreach.Located on the eastern edge of the Finger Lakes region, Syracuse is a small city in a rural region offering a diversity of natural and cultural amenities, a low cost of living, and a high quality of life - ranking among the top 10 percent of "Best Places to Live" in "The Places Rated Almanac." Syracuse is situated with easy access to New York City, the Adirondack Park, Lake Ontario, and many other points of interest in the eastern United States and Canada.In accordance with the "Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act" institutions of higher education are required to prepare an annual report containing information on campus security policies and campus statistics. This report includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on-campus; in certain off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by SUNY-ESF; and on property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies concerning sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a printed copy of this report by contacting SUNY-ESF University Police at 315-470-6667 or by accessing the following web site: ESF is a Smoke and Tobacco Free campus and is dedicated to providing a healthy and safe environment for the entire campus. For more information you can visit our Tobacco and Smoke Free Policy at an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer, The Research Foundation for SUNY will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant's race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy-related conditions, reproductive health decisions, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status, age, national origin or ancestry, marital status, familial status, citizenship, physical and mental disability, prior arrest or conviction record, genetic characteristics/genetic information, predisposition or carrier status, domestic violence victim status, military status or service, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected under federal, state or local law.The Research Foundation for The State University of New York offers exceptional benefits such as healthcare, dental, vision, pension plans, competitive pay, generous paid time off, life insurance and long-term disability insurance.The Research Foundation for the State University of New York is not an agency or instrumentality of the State of New York. Employees of the Research Foundation for the State University of New York are not state employees, do not participate in any state retirement system, and do not receive state fringe benefits. The Research Foundation for the State University of New York operates under a contract with The State University of New York and receives no directly appropriated state funding.