Senior Applications Operations Analyst

Position Overview

Southwest Power Pool (SPP) is dedicated to more than just energy; we prioritize the strength of our connections. Our workforce collaborates to guarantee that electricity is delivered consistently and affordably to the vast population within our service area. Recognized as one of Arkansas' premier workplaces, we seek an individual who is committed to our mission of ensuring reliable power supply.

At SPP, we adhere to a fundamental principle: Act with integrity, for the right purpose, in the appropriate manner.

Employee Benefits

We are committed to our employees' well-being, offering an exceptional benefits package that includes:

• Competitive compensation with potential bonuses
• Comprehensive insurance options, featuring three medical plans, employer-funded short-term and long-term disability, and life insurance
• Assistance with relocation
• Flexible work arrangements for eligible roles, allowing for remote work as well as in-person collaboration when necessary
• Generous retirement contributions through a 401(k) plan with employer matching and a fully funded defined benefit plan

Role Responsibilities

The Senior Applications Operations Analyst is tasked with the oversight and upkeep of software applications and databases that facilitate daily operations and services at Southwest Power Pool. This role involves supporting software solutions and maintaining processes, procedures, and controls for systems, data exchanges, interfaces, and modeling, all essential for the SPP Coordinated Operations, including Integrated Marketplace, Consolidated Balancing Authority (CBA), Reliability, Tariff, Markets, Scheduling, and Engineering. The dependable operation of these applications is vital for SPP and its stakeholders.

The analyst is expected to possess in-depth knowledge in specific application domains and technologies. This role requires applying both business and technical support concepts to troubleshoot software issues, deliver customer assistance, and resolve application-related challenges.

The Senior Applications Operations Analyst ensures the optimal performance of all assigned systems. Collaboration with other SPP personnel is essential to manage systems effectively, minimizing downtime while adhering to IT standards. The analyst will engage with Programmers, Developers, and Architects to evaluate system architecture and design, recommending hardware and software enhancements, process improvements, and design modifications to bolster system security and stability.

This position also involves providing technical training, mentorship, and guidance to other members of the Applications Teams based on experience.

The analyst will act as a liaison between SPP Departments, IT, and external vendors to ensure that the needs of end users and the organization are fulfilled.

Working with minimal supervision, the Senior Applications Operations Analyst will demonstrate sound judgment in developing implementation project plans, prioritizing tasks, and resolving issues.

Key Responsibilities

• Exhibit comprehensive knowledge in designated technical areas, applications, and interfaces (recognized as a Subject Matter Expert).
• Install, configure, maintain, and support assigned application systems.
• Monitor, investigate, and rectify system issues or irregularities to ensure compliance with operational requirements.
• Address and resolve customer-reported issues and inquiries promptly.
• Participate in a 24/7 on-call rotation.
• Manage multiple tasks, solve problems, and demonstrate proficiency in administering and supporting complex, integrated systems.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of the business and technical requirements of assigned systems, along with a competent grasp of other systems supported by the team.
• Engage in relevant phases of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) and project lifecycle, including requirements gathering, design, testing, deployment, and coordination of implementation plans across various teams, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Develop, refine, and maintain technical documentation for systems.
• Propose and implement modifications and enhancements to systems, processes, and documentation.
• Continuously enhance and retain technical skills relevant to assigned focus areas.
• Provide training in areas of expertise to fellow employees.
• Mentor junior team members and new hires based on experience.
• Adhere to corporate and departmental policies and procedures, including applicable audit controls.
• Undertake tasks or special projects as assigned by management or senior team members.
• Provide technical support in various areas, including:
  • Development Support: Create and maintain tools and processes to enhance operator situational awareness and minimize human error.
  • Operational Archive Support: Manage existing data points within operational archive systems and support organizational use of historical data.
  • Business Analyst Support: Collaborate with stakeholders to gather requirements and establish testing protocols.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field; Two years of relevant IT experience may substitute for degree requirements.

Experience:

• Minimum of six years in IT development, programming, or support roles.

Required Skills:

• Proficient in Microsoft Windows, Unix, or Linux operating systems, application support, and database management systems.
• Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and analytical abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with SDLC and project lifecycle methodologies.
• Good customer service and organizational capabilities.
• Knowledge of and compliance with SPP Policies and Procedures.
• Proficient in scripting, SQL, and data analysis.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced experience in User Experience (UX) design.
• Proficient in C#, JavaScript, SQL, and similar programming languages.
• Knowledge of MVC, WebAPI, and MVVM frameworks.
• Understanding of object-oriented analysis and design principles.
• Familiarity with version control systems, including Git.
• Knowledge of the Southwest Power Pool high voltage transmission system and relevant standards.
• Awareness of industry developments and trends.

Work Environment:

This role is situated in a professional office setting, utilizing standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and photocopiers.

Physical Demands:

• The employee is regularly required to make decisions, interpret data, and solve problems.
• Frequent sitting or standing for extended periods is necessary, along with using hands for operating office equipment.
• Occasionally, the employee may need to lift and move items weighing up to 10 pounds.
• Effective collaboration with managers and employees at all levels is essential.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Position Type and Expected Hours:

This is a full-time role, typically Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Extended hours may be necessary.

Travel Requirements:

Minimal travel is expected, approximately 10%.

SPP is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. If you require accommodations during the employment process, please inform us of your needs. We will ensure that qualified candidates receive the necessary support under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

To learn more about our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, please visit our website.