Job Specification

Purpose of Position :

To provide engineering support and assistance in the acquisition, implementation, operation and maintenance of central computer systems and related electronic and data communications subsystems for Advanced Traffic Management Systems (ATMS) applications within Central Region.

Duties / Responsibilities :

Within a section of the Traffic management Branch, responsible for providing systems engineering expertise to Central Region with respect to the planning, design, operation and maintenance of central computer control systems, the position:

1. Participates in the analysis and design of hardware configurations for central computer systems and related electronic and data/video communications subsystems for Advanced Traffic Management. Systems. Applies traffic and systems engineering concepts and standards. Provides advice regarding various ATMS projects to ministry staff, consultants, municipalities and other agencies.

2. Participates in the preparation and revision of system hardware and software specifications, manuals and standards, for both central computer control systems and related electronic subsystem components of ATMS.

3. Provided systems engineering expertise in coordinating software development projects in support of system implementation and operation of ATMS. Reconfigures system parameters to accommodate expansion of traffic control limits.

4. Provides technical expertise in the design and implementation of ATMS application software, and in debugging, modifying and improving the performance of applications programs for ATMS. Initiates and assists with the upgrading, modification and/or redesign of programs and systems.

5. Develops diagnostic procedures for isolating faults of ATMS hardware and software for approval by supervisor. Diagnose system problems. Coordinates maintenance procedures and activities.

6. Prepares monthly reports to evaluate systems performance. Identifies future systems inadequacies and problems. Participates in conducting detailed analyses on various ATMS project proposals. Assesses operational impacts. Recommends solutions.

7. Participates in the preparation and presentation of training courses. Upgrades skills and knowledge with respect to new trends, developments and technological advances to achieve operational goals. Takes courses, attends lectures and conferences, reviews research information and literature.

Knowledge :

A degree in electrical engineering or related engineering discipline from a university of recognized standing, and membership in the PEO. Knowledge of the theories, principles and practices of engineering with specialization in computer engineering, computer hardware/software design, operating systems concept, electronics theories and instrumentation techniques. Demonstrated ability with respect to real-time, multi-tasking, multi-user programming environment (C and FORTRAN). An understanding of data communication principles and standards, electronic circuit design and trouble shooting techniques, and computer networking theory. Upgraded knowledge of the latest technology for traffic monitoring and control, data communications standards/protocols, equipment specification standards, and the preparation/revision of user manuals. An understanding of numerical methods, traffic engineering theory, hardware and software interfacing techniques, coaxial cable, twisted pair and/or fibre optics transmissions. Interpersonal, oral and written communication skills to present/prepare reports and proposals, and to establish effective working relationships with a broad range of contacts. Analytical skills to analyze and resolve problems, and to identify and recommend new or improved systems for ATMS programs. Skill in interpreting, applying, reflecting and ensuring compliance with ministry standards, policies and procedures.

Judgement :

Work is performed under the direction of the Head Computer Control Systems , with guidelines available in the form of established engineering principles and practices, ministry goals, policies, procedures and directives, specialized computer technologies and systems. Judgement is exercised in analyzing Advanced Traffic Management Systems (ATMS) requirements in the field of computer technology, electronic devices and data communications. Judgement is required in implementing hardware and software development projects, in preparing and revising hardware and software specifications for ATMS application and in coordinating maintenance activities to minimize operational downtime. Judgement as required to develop specifications, policies and manuals; to diagnose, analyze and resolve: problems; to coordinate staff and consultant activities; to provide effective systems engineering advice. Judgement is required in reviewing work from consultants and contractors for ATMS acquisition, implementation and maintenance, and in recommending acceptance/rejection/revision to supervisor. The position exercises judgement in preparing and presenting training courses and materials. Completed work is accepted as technically correct and is reviewed only for compliance with ministry policies and defined objectives. Judgement is required in scheduling and completing assignments within prescribed deadlines and budget.

Accountability - Programs :

Position assumes a regional responsibility in providing engineering services in the ATMS field, resolving problems pertaining to the application and operation of the ATMS computer and other electronic equipment, and maintaining system software development to the latest requirements. Position is accountable for organizing and monitoring the integration of the central computer and related elements in ATMS projects in order to ensure public safety. Position coordinates maintenance activities, assists with training, and provides advice on the computer aspects of ATMS projects to ministry staff, consultants, municipalities and other agencies.

Accountability - Finance and Materials :

Reviews consulting cost estimates and work proposals. Recommends acceptance/rejection. Position prepares specifications for the acquisition of equipment.

Accountability - Impact of Errors :

Ineffective decisions, recommendations or advice given could result in project delays, unnecessary expenditures and downtime, inefficient systems operations, public complaints and embarrassment to the ministry.

Contact - Internal :

Maintains regular contact with staff, engineers and colleagues within the ministry, and with other ministries and agencies to exchange information, discuss requirements and to resolve problems. Occasionally provides technical presentations to staff, other ministries and agencies.

Contact - External :

Maintains regular contact with consultants, suppliers and company officials to discuss product/service availability to satisfy the objectives of ATMS. Exchanges information and discusses matters of mutual concern with municipalities and representatives of transportation agencies.