We are seeking an experienced Business Analyst to support a major college institution in Cambridge, Massachusetts that is re-engineering a new web based system that transmits highly detailed customized on-line forms that are used for applications such as Student Registration, Financial Aid, Administration, and interface with faculty, student body and administration. Functions of the Business Analyst: Interview key business owners to elicit business requirements Evaluate information systems functionality Map requirements to existing systems and recommend changes to business process re-design for improved support Develop and document business requirements, use cases, functional specifications, and test cases Analyze vendor proposals Recommend solutions with Cost Analysis to meet their clients' needs This is a high visibility position requiring interactions with senior deans, faculty, students, and administrators. This position acts as a key facilitator bridging the organizational groups of client, stakeholders. and project team. Specific of the Business Analyst Role: Define the requirements Put requirements into functional specifications Lead meetings and small groups Interact and negotiate with different stakeholder groups M* The successful Business Analyst applicant will possess the following requirements (items are required unless noted otherwise): 8+ years of experience in IT business systems analysis Solid analytical skills including requirements gathering and functional design Understanding of the SDLC Strong negotiation, group facilitation, and consensus building skills Excellent communications and writing skills Software development experience Knowledge of higher education and student systems is highly desirable The ideal Business Analyst candidate will have experience as a business analysts building web-based front end systems Experience working in an academic setting as a Business Analyst is preferred, but not required Experience with Balsamic will be a plus