Programmer Analyst

About Spicers Canada

Spicers is a distinguished fifth-generation family-owned enterprise specializing in the wholesale distribution of commercial print and business papers, specialty items, graphic solutions, signage and display equipment, packaging, and facility supplies. Headquartered in Vaughan, Ontario, the company operates 13 regional branches, including custom manufacturing facilities in Toronto and Winnipeg, alongside cash and carry stores, product showrooms, and equipment demonstration centers.

Role Overview

As a Programmer Analyst reporting to the National Manager of IT Business Process and Development in Vaughan, Ontario, your responsibilities encompass ERP development, system integrations, business process automation, production support, and team collaboration with a focus on IBM i (AS/400) environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and implement solutions within the Infor A+ ERP system.
• Create and enhance enterprise applications utilizing Free Format RPG, RPG ILE, RPG III, SQL, and CL languages.
• Produce dependable, maintainable code to support critical business operations such as order processing, inventory management, purchasing, and distribution.
• Engage in code review activities to enhance development standards and team practices.
• Build integrations connecting the ERP with eCommerce platforms, CRM systems, reporting tools, and EDI networks using technologies including TrustedLink and BizManager.
• Develop APIs, data interfaces, and automation workflows to facilitate seamless enterprise data exchange and minimize manual processes.
• Diagnose and resolve integration and production issues to maintain data accuracy and system reliability.
• Collaborate with stakeholders from operations, finance, and sales to identify automation prospects and streamline business processes.
• Translate business needs into scalable, well-documented technical solutions that improve operational efficiency and visibility.
• Contribute to modernization efforts of IBM i applications within the broader enterprise IT architecture.
• Serve as part of an on-call rotation providing critical application support and promptly address service desk requests.
• Create detailed documentation of technical designs, integrations, and procedures to enhance team knowledge sharing.
• Mentor junior developers and foster skill development within the IT team.
• Communicate effectively with technical and business audiences regarding project status, risks, and recommendations.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams across IT, operations, and finance divisions.

Technical Environment

• Core Platforms: Infor A+ ERP, IBM i / AS400, DB2/400 databases.
• Programming Languages: Free Format RPG, RPG ILE, RPG III, SQL, CL.
• Integration Technologies: REST APIs, EDI tools (TrustedLink, BizManager), CRM, eCommerce platforms, and Infor integration tools such as ION and Infor OS.
• Analytics and Reporting: SQL-driven reporting, Power BI or similar business intelligence solutions.
• Emerging Technologies: Open-source tools on IBM i, Python and Node.js on PASE environment, Git version control, continuous integration and deployment practices.
• Collaboration Tools: Microsoft 365 suite.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary diploma or degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field, or equivalent hands-on professional experience demonstrating strong technical proficiency.
• Minimum of 4 years of software development experience specifically on IBM i / AS400 platforms.
• Expertise in RPG programming (including Free Format, ILE, and RPG III).
• Strong knowledge of SQL and DB2/400 databases.
• Experience with ERP business systems development and support, particularly Infor A+ ERP.
• Skilled in troubleshooting, analyzing, and resolving technical challenges.
• Capability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to business teams and explain both rationale and implementation approaches.
• Proven experience integrating IBM i systems with REST APIs, web services, and cloud-based platforms.
• Familiarity with EDI platforms and business-to-business data interchange methodologies.
• Background knowledge in distribution, logistics, or supply chain industry is advantageous.
• Exposure to business intelligence tools such as Power BI for enterprise reporting.
• Experience using Git or similar source control technologies.
• Interest or prior experience in modern IBM i development tools and techniques, including open-source tooling, Rational Developer for i (RDi), and scripting languages like Python or Node.js.

Working Conditions

• Extensive computer use requiring prolonged periods of concentration and sharp attention to detail.
• Work environment includes a busy, open office space.
• Job duties involve managing deadlines which may lead to stress and require high accuracy and focus.
• Occasional requirement to work evenings or weekends as needed.
• Standard working hours aligned with Mountain Standard Time zone.

Additional Information

Spicers Canada ULC is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. The company provides accommodations during recruitment and selection for individuals with special needs and encourages candidates requiring accommodation to communicate with Human Resources.