Forest Service Career Sheet #6 Computer Programmer Analyst (GS-9) Major Duties A Forest Service Computer Programmer Analyst (GS-9) helps modify existing computer applications programs and prepare new ones. Specific duties include
• Helping develop flow charts, formats, and layouts for computer filing and records systems • Determining logic codes, running tests on new computer programs to debug them, and preparing instructions for computer operators to follow • Writing and maintaining computer operator instructions for programs • Providing technical support for those using the computer systems • Creating programs linked to other Forest Service computer programs so the output of one program is the input for another • Designing and conducting training programs for employees
Computer programmer Analysts must know about overall design and function of computer systems so they can change and develop new applications. They must know how to program computer systems. This requires a complete understanding of computer hardware and software and knowledge of computer programs being used throughout the Forest Service. A good understanding of the different functions of the entire organization is also required. A person at this level may also supervise other employees (e.g., monitor employee performance, conduct performance appraisals, develop training plans, formulate budgets, coordinate staff efforts, etc.).
A Typical Day Ryan has been a Computer Programmer Analyst (GS-9) with the Forest Service for two years. Before that he got a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and worked as a Computer Assistant (GS-6) for 18 months prior to his promotion to analyst. For two months, Ryan has been helping to revise and rewrite a computer program to keep track of supplies and budget expenditures for his unit. He has been working with analysts from other Forest Service units on this project. They hope to be able to jointly develop a better way of tracking expenditures (and also create a computer program that Forest Service Employees will find easier to use). Much of this work involves creating new computer logic and codes, then testing the program to eliminate bugs. Some people think is pretty tedious work, but Ryan says he likes experimenting with new ways of doing things and he doesn’t mind being in an office all day. Besides, he has always liked math, science, and tinkering with computers.
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Knowledge and Education A college degree is required for those interested in becoming a Computer Programmer Analyst (GS-9) with the Forest Service. Recommended college courses include:
• Mathematics • Statistics • Computer Technology (programming, • Budgeting BASIC, UNIX, COBOL) • Economics • Business Administration
Career Path Here are some Forest Service Jobs that can lead to becoming a Computer Programmer Analyst (GS-9):
• Computer Clerk (GS-4) - Things this person does include: o Entering and retrieving information through computer terminals o Helping maintain records about computer schedules o Reviewing demand processing requests to see who needs to use the system o Monitoring jobs in progress to detect equipment or program problems o Helping computer programmers test new or revised programs • Computer Programmer (GS-5) – this is a trainee position whose tasks include o Working with programmers to help perform technical analysis and basic programming o Operating a terminal and doing data entry o Operating computer peripheral equipment and microprocessors • Computer Assistant (GA-6) – this person performs technical support duties on a Forest Service unit’s mini-computer, tape and disc drives, printers, and video display console. Duties include: o Maintaining unit tape library and disc storage deceives o Maintaining catalogs, manuals, and documentation files for all software o Ensuring computer equipment and peripheral are running properly o Monitoring all computer processing operations to ensure accurate output