Senior Director - Information Technology and Support Services

Primary Purpose

To provide leadership, management, and oversight of district technology infrastructure, networking, server systems, cybersecurity, and end-user support services. The Senior Director of IT & Support Services ensures secure, reliable, and efficient operations of all technology systems that support instruction, administration, and compliance. This position works collaboratively with the Chief of Data & Technology to plan, implement, and sustain technology initiatives that align with district goals and Texas Education Agency (TEA) requirements.

Qualifications

Education/Training:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field (required)
• Master's degree (preferred)
• Industry certifications preferred (e.g., CompTIA Network+, Security+, CCNA, MCSA, or equivalent)

Experience:

• Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in information technology and network administration
• Minimum of three (3) years in a supervisory or management role within a K-12 or higher-education environment

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of LAN/WAN design, server administration, and network security
• Expertise in Active Directory, firewall systems, and backup/disaster recovery processes
• Familiarity with SIS integrations, single sign-on, and data protection regulations (FERPA, CIPA, etc.)
• Strong leadership, communication, and project-management skills Ability to analyze technical issues and implement sustainable solutions
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships

Major Responsibilities and Duties

Infrastructure and Network Management

• Direct all aspects of network operations, including LAN/WAN connectivity, wireless infrastructure, and internet security
• Oversee district servers, storage, and virtualization environments to ensure high availability and disaster recovery readiness.
• Maintain cybersecurity systems, including firewalls, endpoint protection, intrusion detection, and vulnerability management.
• Coordinate with external vendors to ensure uptime and compliance with E-Rate and other federal/state technology funding programs.
• Ensure all district sites maintain secure and reliable network access aligned with instructional and operational needs.

Helpdesk and Support Services

• Lead the district's helpdesk operations to ensure timely response, resolution, and customer satisfaction.
• Establish escalation procedures and service level agreements (SLAs) for IT support requests.
• Develop and implement staff training for technology best practices and security awareness.
• Manage device inventory, imaging, and lifecycle replacement for end-user hardware.

Systems Administration and Security

• Administer user accounts, permissions, and authentication systems (Active Directory, Google Admin, SSO).
• Oversee data backup, retention, and disaster recovery protocols to protect against data loss or system downtime.
• Collaborate with the Chief of Data & Technology to align security practices with SIS, PEIMS, and district data governance policies.

Project Management and Collaboration

• Participate in technology planning, procurement, and implementation of district technology initiatives.
• Work jointly with the Chief of Data & Technology to design scalable solutions for system integration and network expansion.
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, network diagrams, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Leadership and Supervision

• Supervise IT staff including network engineers, technicians, and helpdesk personnel.
• Develop professional growth plans for technology staff and conduct annual evaluations.
• Promote a service-oriented culture focused on problem solving, efficiency, and continuous improvement.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Network Engineers
• Systems Administrators
• Technical Support Specialists/Helpdesk Staff

Working Conditions

Physical/Mental Demands: Ability to lift equipment up to 40 lbs; prolonged periods at a computer; travel between campuses.

Environment: Office and campus environments; occasional evening or weekend work for maintenance or system rollouts.