Computer Specialist II

  • Title: Computer Specialist II
  • Class: Classified
  • Exempt Status:Non-exempt
  • Grade: 22

Job Summary

Under the direction of department management, coordinates computer activities specific to Campus and center-based locations for department operations. Installs and maintains department computer systems and performs specific computer services independently or in collaboration with Technology Solutions Services (TSS) staff. Acts as the primary point of contact for TSS staff, other department staff and vendors for department systems. Holds primary responsibility for unsupported systems controlled by the department. Trains others who are unfamiliar with various computer platforms and related components and software as appropriate. Ensures compatibility with existing PCC computing systems. Performs technical work output on an independent basis.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This classification is distinguished from the Computer Specialist I in that incumbents in the Computer Specialist II position spend a majority of their time and focus on non-routine technical support duties such as analysis, research, and installation and/or implementation of new systems or improvements to existing systems. The Computer Specialist II position has primary technical responsibility for operation of department-specific systems and is the point of contact for external vendors.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

  • Maintains and improves department-specific systems. Troubleshoots and resolves systems issues as they arise independently, in conjunction with TSS, or in collaboration with external vendors.
  • Provides problem solving and technical assistance to staff for department systems. Responds to telephone, electronic mail, voice mail, verbal and written service requests to provide on-call assistance. Assistance is provided either in person, by telephone, electronic mail, voice mail or help desk concept.
  • Performs research and analysis for new systems and for upgrades to existing systems. Installs and tests new configurations and systems.
  • Troubleshoots and resolves hardware and software problems within the department. Modifies settings or replaces faulty components to resolution, which may involve coordination with TSS network staff. Works with TSS to ensure effective interfaces with college information systems.
  • Assists college staff and faculty with the output of data from application software such as Word Perfect, Word, Access, PowerPoint, Excel, PageMaker, communications software, and databases used in department operations.
  • Provides technical documentation and provides user training and basic recovery procedures for those systems. Serves as resource for creating documentation and training materials in response to faculty and staff inquiries for technical support.
  • Selects and maintains computer supply inventory for the department system-wide.
  • Coordinates repair of computer equipment and peripherals. Performs basic diagnosis and repairs. Provides maintenance and problem diagnosis on all systems.
  • Attends and participates in campus-wide and departmental meetings and committees to discuss computer-related issues, as well as contribute to TSS projects as a team member
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Coordinating a variety of activities and/or responding to peak work load periods can result in periods of high pressure. Incumbent is generally able to regulate own schedule, work flow, etc. Responds to emergency service calls and district-wide situations in a constantly changing environment. Regular exposure to monitors, electrical and electronic equipment, computer related noise levels, as well as dust and equipment cleaning materials, occurs on a regular basis.

Learned physical skill required to perform keyboarding functions. Regular lifting of equipment/materials for installations, troubleshooting, repairs, etc.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent. Associate’s degree or two years of college-level course work or training in a computer-related discipline. Experience performing the duties of the job may substitute for the post-secondary education or training on a year-for-year basis. Three years of experience performing routine tasks, troubleshooting, research, and analysis within complex computer systems and networks is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:
  • Internet-based services and other LAN and data communications hardware and software;
  • Relational databases, client-server architecture, network architecture TCP/IP protocols and mainframe operations;
  • Applications software such as Microsoft Office, Access, and Excel;
  • Departmental processes and policies.
Skills in:
  • Computer hardware troubleshooting and diagnostics;
  • Performing a variety of independent research and analysis activities;
  • Evaluating research to identify potential solutions, resolve problems, or provide information.
Ability to:
  • Explain terms, concepts and technology in plain language verbally and in writing;
  • Work with multiple priorities in a fast-paced and changing environment.
  • Work with diverse academic, cultural, and ethnic background of community college students and staff.

Reviewed: 12/18

  • New: 7/2015