Director of Network Operations

Position Title: Director of Network Operations

Department:  Information Management and Technology

Term of Employment: 12 months

Salary Classification: Administrative Salary Schedule

Job Summary: Responsible for the design, implementation, operation, and maintenance of the district's network, telecommunications, server infrastructure, integrated systems, and end-user devices in a Cisco and Microsoft Windows environment. Provides strategic leadership for network operations, cybersecurity, disaster recovery, and related support services to ensure reliable, secure technology services for students, staff, and administrators.

Essential Functions:  Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include, but are not limited to, the following tasks, duties, knowledge, skills and other characteristics.  This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents in this class. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES generally include the following.  Other duties may be assigned:

• Plan, manage and supervise network and telecommunications operations, including LAN/WAN, wireless, VOIP, wiring/infrastructure, and related equipment.
• Oversee servers, storage, virtual environments, backups, and data center operations at primary and secondary sites.
• Ensure stable, secure, and reliable technology services for students, teachers, administrators, and staff.
• Develop, document, and enforce departmental policies, standards, procedures, and best practices.
• Design and maintain cybersecurity policies, incident response plans, and security controls.
• Design and maintain cybersecurity policies, incident response plans, and security controls.
• Establish district hardware and software standards and ensure compliance with software licensing.
• Lead long-range planning and develop a vision for the future of network operations and infrastructure.
• Plan and manage the network operations budget; evaluate and manage vendor and consultant relationships.
• Oversee the district's Managed Document Services program and operations of the Copy Center.
• Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies in networking, telecommunications, mobile computing, and security; recommend technology improvements.
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate technical staff; foster collaborative relationships across the district.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Knowledge of relevant federal, state, and local statutes, regulations, and district policies affecting technology operations.
• Strong expertise in LAN/WAN design, network architecture, and telecommunications systems.
• Advanced knowledge of cybersecurity principles, tools, and best practices.
• Deep familiarity with Microsoft Windows environments, including OS management, SQL Server, Exchange, and SharePoint.
• Proven experience designing, configuring, and operating Cisco networking and VOIP systems; Cisco certification preferred.
• Familiarity with industry standards for networking, storage, voice/data communications, wiring, and infrastructure.
• Strong leadership, supervision, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and customer service skills; ability to work collaboratively with executive leadership and district stakeholders.
• Ability to manage complex server infrastructure and data communications systems and to train and mentor technical staff.
• Proficient with personal computers and a variety of software applications.

Minimum Qualifications: Any combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities. Typical background includes a BA/BS in computer science, communications, information technology, or a related field and substantial experience in telecommunications and IT management. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

Preferred Certifications:

• CompTIA A+
• CompTIA Network+
• Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)
• Cisco certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCNP) preferred