Business Applications Support Specialist

JOB SUMMARY: Provide ESC-20 clients with software support and services for ASCENDER business applications.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS/ABILITIES

Knowledge

• High School Diploma or GED required; Bachelor's degree from an accredited university preferred, with a major in business administration or related field.
• Two to three years of school/service center experience related to business office support required.
• Experience with school business procedures and problems, especially in the area of human resources, payroll, financial accounting (Financial Accountability System Resource Guide), fixed asset accounting, warehouse operations and the business aspects of cafeteria operations.
• Knowledge of state and federal rules and laws related to business applications provided by ESC-20.
• Knowledge of the ASCENDER business software applications and familiarity with its processes.

Skills/Abilities

• Excellent problem-solving skills and creativity associated with business data support.
• Demonstrated excellence in training and presentation skills, including development of training materials.
• Proficiency with standard functions within applications such as Microsoft 365/Google, (word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software), e-mail, web browsers, and databases.
• Proficiency with computers (PCs and/or MACs) to include file and desktop management and operations, and working in a cloud-based and/or networked environment.
• Exceptions to these requirements will be considered based on exemplary skills, training, and record of success.

PRODUCTS AND OUTCOMES

• Make decisions and develop a mechanism to provide software support and services to users of all ESC-20 business systems applications.
• Ensure requests for services and support are promptly handled and that proper output and information is provided.
• Ensure clients are aware of the services offered by the service center.
• Conduct workshops and user training on business applications at the service center, online, and/or at the local education agency (LEA)s (support sessions).
• Provide onboarding support for new LEAs
• Ensure problems reported or requests for changes by users for special programming are understood and reported properly to the direct supervisor.
• Interpret client's view of problems and communicate these to the Texas Computer Cooperative (TCC) using the TCC helpdesk application.
• Gather user requirements for modifications and enhancements to the business software system and provide to TCC through the helpdesk application.
• In cooperation with the other team members and the direct supervisor, develop an annual calendar of processing and training dates.
• Participate in TCC user acceptance testing as appropriate.
• Serve as a resource to users in identifying file or data problems and suggest methods for corrective procedures.
• Ensure billing for special programming and other on-request services to clients is submitted in a timely manner.
• Ensure business system users are informed of system updates/enhancements.
• Continuously monitor the progress of client districts, identify problems encountered, and use problem-solving skills to determine the appropriate action for resolution.
• Read and interpret technical material and applicable state laws and rules.
• Provide detailed documentation for software support to clients.
• Test software prior to its release to clients to ensure accuracy and that changes are made that are advantageous for client use.
• Provide requested reports related to the review and evaluation of a client's business/finance data elements.
• Actively solicit user feedback.
• Submit recommended designs, modifications, and enhancements to direct supervisor.
• Offer professional assistance to other staff members when appropriate.
• Assist with TSDS and PEIMS data collections as appropriate for school business data.

INITIATIVE

• Demonstrate initiative, persistence, and a proactive approach to assigned responsibilities.
• Demonstrate the use of sound judgement and ingenuity in problem solving to meet the needs of the Center and clients served.
• Seek, participate, and engage in job-related learning and development experiences that provide professional growth.
• Remain current with industry standards, developments, and applicable laws/regulations; implement accordingly.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability to new situations and assignments.
• Set challenging goals and reach a high standard of performance despite barriers encountered.
• Perform duties with awareness of broader organizational impact, ensuring actions and decisions support department and organizational success.
• Make connections with individual responsibilities and the Center's Mission, Vision, goals and objectives.
• Promote and support continuous improvement and organizational change.
• Work under minimal supervision.

COMMUNICATION/HUMAN RELATIONS

• Model the Principles of Public Service (Policy AD LOCAL).
• Communicate in a timely and effective manner and interact professionally.
• Build professional relationships with colleagues and clients, maintaining regular interaction to meet shared outcomes.
• Demonstrate self-confidence, professionalism, and a high level of customer service skills (e.g., courtesy, patience, diplomacy, etc.) at all times and, in particular, when under stressful or unprecedented situations while working with colleagues and clients.
• Demonstrate professional-level written and oral communication skills.
• Work collaboratively in a team setting.
• Keep supervisors informed.
• Regularly handle and maintain confidentiality of sensitive communications and information at all times.

SUPERVISION AND ORGANIZATION OF STAFF

• None

BUDGET RESPONSIBILITY

• Be aware of and follow Center guidelines of allowable costs when recommending use of public funds for expenditures for supplies, equipment, and facilities in area of assignment.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS & ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer, peripherals, copy machine, phone, etc.
• Posture: Prolonged sitting; occasional standing, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting.
• Motion: Repetitive hand motions including frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching.
• Lifting: Light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); occasional heavy lifting/carrying (15-50 pounds).
• Environment: This role primarily operates in an in-person, dynamic office setting, characterized by frequent verbal communication, movement, and collaboration among team members (small to large in-person gatherings/meetings); exposure to low or intense illumination; exposure to office equipment noise; may work prolonged or irregular hours; frequent travel; and, occasional remote work (after pre-determined length of employment).
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Champion and model the Center's Mission, Vision, Core Values, and Service Standards.
• Function within the policies and procedures of ESC-20.
• Accept other responsibilities as assigned.
• Dress and groom appropriately for the ESC-20 work setting.
• Travel independently to fulfill responsibilities of the position.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance, majority in-person/onsite.
• Serve at the will of the Executive Director.

Deadline to apply: July 23, 2026