Applications Specialist

Here at NCHA we have a fantastic opportunity for the right person to join our friendly and supportive Technology team as Applications Specialist. As Applications Specialist you will be providing support, maintenance and development services for NCHA's technology applications.

As Applications Specialist some of your key duties and responsibilities may include but are not limited to:

• Being responsible for the effective day to day operation and maintenance of the delegated elements that comprise the NCHA IT system; managing the configuration and tuning of delegated applications to ensure optimum performance and efficiency e.g. databases, servers, network, internet services and assisting the selection and procurement of end user hardware, software and its configuration.
• Providing implementation services for new Technology Applications, acting as Technology lead in projects.
• Managing UAT with colleagues across departments including supporting the creation of functional testing plans.
• Ensuring required application upgrades and maintenance are scheduled, working closely with the internal teams and the relevant 3rd party vendors.
• Ensuring effective communication is in place between technology services and the business teams by regularly and proactively seeking feedback, escalating issues and risks.
• Analysing data requests to produce and maintain reporting to support the organisations frontline departments.
• Providing support for system users and Technology Services team on core applications.
• Assisting in the creation and maintenance of documentation for software and system setup information along with NCHA software processes and procedures.

What we require:

• The ideal candidate will have a degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject or working towards or relevant work experience. Knowledge of Microsoft server suite and understanding of best practice for maintenance, efficiency and deployment of applications and data.
• An up to date knowledge and recent use of modern computing principles including their application in a business setting, e.g. Microsoft Windows operating systems, Microsoft Office applications.
• Recent experience of working in a customer-focused environment e.g. IT support role. Recent experience supporting a core line of business applications as either an administrator or 3rd line application support role.
• Demonstrable high level of IT and literacy skills including experience of problem solving.
• The ability to communicate and to present information clearly and concisely both verbal and written, with good attention to detail. Recent experience of database configuration and reporting services e.g. SQL Server and SSRS.
• The ability to work independently but also as a team. Managing the balance between project work and business as usual activities.
• Desirable experience of working with housing applications.
• Desirable experience of working with mobile applications.
• Desirable experience of analysing business needs and translating that into applications and reporting requirements.

Working Hours: 35 hours a week with a flexible balance of working from home and in the office, Monday - Friday.

Please note that we are not currently offering visa sponsorship. All successful candidates will be required to take a work-related test prior to the interview.

NCHA was officially ranked as one of the UK’s best places to work. This year, we are very proud to have ranked as the 41st UK’s Best Workplace™ by Great Place to Work UK.

As an Equal Opportunities and Disability Confident Employer, NCHA welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates including those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and disabled candidates. As part of our LGBT Allies Programme, we also welcome applications from members of the LGBT community and encourage inclusivity in the workplace.