System Specialist - Information Technology and Data Analysis R&D

System Specialist - Information Technology and Data Analysis R&D

Title: System Specialist - Information Technology and Data Analysis R&D
Location: Indiana-Indianapolis
Dow AgroSciences LLC, based in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, is a top-tier agricultural company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. Dow AgroSciences provides innovative technologies for crop protection, pest and vegetation management, seeds, traits, and agricultural biotechnology to serve the world's growing population. Global sales for Dow AgroSciences, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Dow Chemical Company, are $4.9 billion.

The Dow AgroSciences R&D Information Technology and Data Analysis function is looking for a customer-focused individual to provide administrative and primary technical support for key Seeds and Traits Information Management systems in the biotech area. Seeds and Traits R&D users rely on this person to collaborate with Information Technology support group and peer System Specialists to maintain smooth running of the applications, as well as for information management support, so that the data generated from Seeds and Traits R&D operations are safely maintained and made available for scientific and executive decision-making. Based on business and technical knowledge, this person also facilitates optimal uses of the IM systems and tools by Seeds and Traits R&D users to realize value of the investment and to achieve productivity enhancement.

Primary areas of emphasis include:
* Provide first-line user support, diagnose issues with systems and escalate for resolution. Provide reports and create custom queries for users. (40%)
* Develop user documentation, assist with production rollout and user training. (15%)
* Ensure data integrity and manage database dictionaries. (15%)
* Manage system access and change control. (10%)
* Assist in system testing, develop and implement user acceptance testing. (10%)
* Participate in requirement definition discussions, or, study and gain application/technical knowledge to the system. (10%)
Typical responsibilities for this position would include:
* Set-up and train new system users. The user base for these systems is distributed across the US and around the globe so training is frequently done remotely.
* Work with users to diagnose support issues and with IT staff to provide timely resolution.
* Resolve data integrity issues within the system using understanding of DAS work processes and terminology.
The System Specialist will work closely with:
* Field scientists (breeders) located both within the US and around the world
* The ITDA support team to provide effective user support, particularly at key times
* Other System Specialists across DAS R&D
* System developers both within ITDA and as part of the global IS function
Competencies:
* Initiative/Innovation:
* Must complete projects which require working outside the natural work group
* Achieve results by improving work process
* Use information from other parts of the company to improve the work
* Interpersonal Effectiveness
* Build and maintain relationships with others outside the work group.
* Make decisions in the best interest of business/function, balancing concerns from various groups within
* Teamwork:
* Proactively identify and suggest changes which enhance the team's effectiveness
* Coordinate modifications to the team with other team members
* Work Process Discipline:
* Must be able to execute defined work process with a high degree of accuracy
* Must contribute to the on-going improvement of the business/function Intranet, File Share and Document Management content management.
* Technology:
* Solves routine technical problems
* Utilizes current technology to accomplish the tasks on specific projects.
* Understands uses and coaches others about Dow technology relative to general area of responsibility.
* Stays up-to-date on standards & disciplines in his/her technician field.
* Service:
* Coaches the R&D staff in content management tools, processes and best practices
* Participates in the implementation of content management solutions
This position is located in Indianapolis, IN, USA.
* Associates or bachelors degree in computer technology or technical science with experience.
* Technical knowledge of mainframe, PC, and mobile device operating systems.
* Excellent interpersonal skills, including good listening and team skills.
* Excellent communication skills, including good technical writing and presentation skills.
* Given the global distribution of the user base, knowledge of Spanish or Portuguese would be a significant advantage.
* Ability to train others.
* SQL knowledge highly desirable.
* Database interfacing experience or knowledge highly desirable.