IT Specialist I
Location: Salt Lake City, UT
Department: Management Information Systems (MIS)
Travel: Required (seasonal, multi-state)
About Challenger School
Challenger School is a mission-driven educational organization focused on developing independent, productive thinkers. Our campuses rely on stable, well-documented technology systems to support classrooms, staff, and students across multiple states.
About the Role
The IT Specialist is a hands-on technical role supporting Challenger School campuses and corporate offices. This position combines help desk support, systems administration tasks, field installations, and technical documentation. The role requires comfort working both at a desk and on-site in classrooms, wiring closets, and offices.
This role is best suited for an IT professional who values clear standards, documentation, accountability, and problem-solving in a real-world environment.
Key Responsibilities
- End-User & Help Desk Support
- Provide Tier 1-2 support for Windows PCs, Office 365, printers, browsers, antivirus, and network access
- Support staff and faculty with both routine and complex technical issues via written and verbal communication
- Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, and connectivity issues in a timely manner
- Escalate issues appropriately and document resolutions
- Systems & Desktop Management
- Install, configure, and maintain Windows desktop and server operating systems
- Assist with application deployment, updates, and configuration
- Support disk imaging operations and desktop configuration standards
- Perform workstation provisioning, replacement, and decommissioning
- Campus & Field Support
- Design, coordinate, and install computer labs and staff workstations
- Install and maintain peripherals, mobile devices, and phones
- Respond to assigned hardware trouble tickets and coordinate vendor repairs
- Support technology refresh projects across campuses
- Cabling & Physical Infrastructure
- Install and maintain voice and data cabling
- Use wire termination and testing tools
- Perform basic rack installation, cable management, and equipment mounting
- Documentation & Standards
- Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs)
- Document system configurations and support processes
- Follow established MIS standards and contribute to continuous improvement
- Travel & Schedule Expectations
- Travel to Challenger locations in Utah, California, Nevada, Idaho, and Texas
- Approximately 3-4 months of travel per year, with heavier travel during summer
- Mileage and per diem reimbursement provided
- After-hours and weekend work required as part of assigned responsibilities
Required Qualifications
- Technical training or equivalent experience (A+ or similar)
- Experience supporting Windows desktop environments
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365
- Understanding of basic networking concepts and troubleshooting
- Strong problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills
- Valid driver's license and ability to travel
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with disk imaging, endpoint management, or MDM tools
- Experience in education, nonprofit, or multi-site environments
- Familiarity with ticketing systems and asset management tools
Physical Requirements
- Ability to move freely in school and office environments
- Ability to lift and move IT equipment (up to approximately 40 lbs)
- Comfort working in classrooms, wiring closets, and equipment rooms