Applications Programmer I

Johnston County (NC)•Smithfield, NC

78d

About The Position

The Johnston County Department of Social Services is seeking an experienced Applications Programmer I to join the agency's IT Department. Under the direction of this position, the IT Department supports the agency's mission by maintaining and advancing the technology systems that power the delivery of human services. These systems include, but are not limited to, Children & Adult Services (TANF, FNS, Subsidized Child Care, Medicaid for Family and Children & Adults, and Energy Programs). This position plays a vital role in ensuring secure, reliable, and efficient operation of DSS information systems, while also identifying and implementing innovative technology solutions to enhance service delivery. This position may require altered hours when or if the county operates emergency shelters, as this is a mandatory duty of DSS and all staff must participate as assigned.

Requirements

Considerable knowledge of the capabilities, limitations, and security practices for computers, networks, and related peripheral equipment.
Strong understanding of systems analysis, design, and implementation processes.
Working knowledge of programming techniques and the ability to read, write, and debug code.
Skill in diagnosing and resolving software, hardware, and communications issues.
Ability to evaluate and recommend hardware or software upgrades.
Knowledge of data backup, recovery, and system security protocols.
Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to train and support users effectively.
Graduation from a four-year college or university with nine semester hours in computer programming and two years of progressive experience in computer programming; or graduation from a four-year college or university with a degree in computer science, information systems management or a related curriculum and one year of progressive experience in computer programming; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A degree directly related to the technical nature of the application(s) assigned may be substituted for up to six months of the experience requirement. Degrees must be received from appropriately accredited universities.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in local government agencies, specifically the Department of Social Services.
With knowledge of PathNC and NCFast state systems.

Responsibilities

Administering user accounts and access rights; managing file permissions, security settings, and passwords.
Performing computer upgrades, troubleshooting hardware and software issues, and ensuring optimal system performance.
Maintaining network infrastructure and overseeing virtual machine setup, deployment, and performance monitoring.
Managing mobile equipment (cell phones, tablets, laptops), including software updates and security audits.
Managing the Agency's fleet of computer equipment, including software updates and security audits.
Conducting regular backups of server data, verifying integrity, and ensuring disaster recovery readiness.
Working closely with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) to support and maintain major systems such as NC FAST, CWISE, and PATH NC.
Participating in state-mandated network testing and security audits to maintain compliance.
Implementing network, cloud, and data security best practices and reporting security status to staff and NCDHHS as needed.
Providing systems analysis and solutions to optimize operations, including planning, testing, debugging, and documentation.
Supporting AI integration projects to improve data accuracy, efficiency, and error detection. This includes coordinating with vendors, developing support tools for staff, and maintaining AI-driven systems.
Designing, developing, and maintaining in-house software applications, including system design, programming, testing, and deployment.
Working with DSS leadership and County IT to identify technology needs, define project goals, and manage implementation timelines.
Providing technical training and guidance to staff on system functionality, new technologies, and security awareness.
Advancing the Agency's vision of expanding AI initiatives to improve accuracy, efficiency, and critical error detection across operations. The incumbent will lead efforts to identify opportunities where AI can streamline workflows and enhance decision-making. In addition to overseeing the implementation, management, and ongoing maintenance of these systems, the role will ensure alignment with agency goals and compliance standards.