Director of Technology

Primary Purpose:

Responsible for the overall management of the Information Technology Department and strategic planning of technology systems districtwide. Provide expertise and direction in the development, deployment, and use of information technology in the district.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field

Demonstrated proficiency in technology and technology support

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of computer network, hardware, and software applications

Knowledge of computer applications development and implementation

Knowledge of educational technology integration

Ability to manage budget and personnel; coordinate district function; implement policy and procedure

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Ability to interpret data

Experience:

Experience with setting up, configuring, and working with computers and networks (required)

Experience in K-12 education setting (preferred)

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Technology and Information Management

• Analyze complex business needs presented by schools and administrative departments, and develop and implement technical solutions. Explain technology solutions to senior management through presentation and advocacy.
• Manage, direct, and assign priorities and personnel to major projects to ensure attainment of district and department goals and objectives.
• Oversee the installation, maintenance, and repair of computer hardware and software throughout the district.
• Assist with the implementation of staff/student development in the area of technology; provide training.
• Lead areas of staff and student technology development and integration.
• Develop and implement district standards and specifications for hardware and software use, and computer networking.
• Devise, develop, implement, and maintain systems of internal controls, emergency and backup procedures, proper licensing, system upgrades, and disaster recovery plans to ensure integrity of information, security of databases, and internal network access control.
• Oversee support between the education service center and district staff, including programming, application support, and end-user support.

Technical Support & Safety

• Serve as liaison to software and hardware vendors to maintain appropriate product support.
• Provide assistance to end users to identify and correct equipment and software related problems.
• Operate tools and equipment according to prescribed safety procedures.
• Follow established safety procedures and techniques to perform job duties, including lifting, climbing and carrying.

Network Management, Installation and Security

• Service technology devices and equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of technology information, equipment, service, materials, etc.
• Identify and resolve network hardware and software problems.
• Install and test network hardware, software, and upgrades. Install and upgrade computers and peripherals throughout the district.
• Coordinate and monitor system utilization; recommend improvements as needed.
• Implement a district wide security system for all systems; ensure network security by maintaining network, Internet, and E-mail accounts.

Instructional Technology

• Provide leadership and collaborate with district staff to develop, implement, and update a district instructional technology plan aligned with district goals.
• Lead technology development, including implementation of new and innovative instructional technology.
• Work directly with district instructional leaders on implementation of instructional technology supports that promote student growth and achievement.
• Support teachers and staff in the development and use of instructional technology.
• Prove professional development, as needed.

Communication and Community

• Establish and maintain positive partnerships and open communication with parents, students, campus administrators, community, colleagues, and supervisors.
• Use effective verbal and written communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.
• Lead and support parent and community meetings/training related to the assigned areas.

Policy, Reports, and Law

• Implement the policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the area of information management and technology.
• Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents as required.
• Participate in the research of and application for technology-related grants or revenue sources.
• Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Budget and Inventory

• Service technology devices and equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of technology information, equipment, service, materials, etc.
• Develop and administer the information technology budget based on documented needs, and ensure that operations are cost-effective and funds are managed wisely.
• Coordinate the purchase of all computer hardware, software, and supplies; initiate purchase orders and bids in accordance with budgetary limitations and district policies.

Personnel Management

• Prepare, review, and revise technology department job descriptions.
• Select, train, supervise, and evaluate staff, and make recommendations relative to assignment, retention, discipline, and dismissal.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervise, evaluate, and recommend the hiring and firing of information technology department employees.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment, including computer and peripherals

Posture: Prolonged sitting

Motion: Repetitive hand motions; frequent keyboarding and use of mouse

Lifting: Occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds)

Environment: Work is primarily performed in an office environment with frequent districtwide and occasional statewide travel; occasional prolonged and irregular hours

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress