IT Schools Manager – K-12 Schools

IT Schools Manager – K-12 Schools

The IT Manager is the leader for Wayside Schools and is responsible for the planning, coordination, management, and day-to-day operation of technology services across all campuses. The position provides both strategic leadership and hands-on technical support to ensure reliable, secure, and effective technology systems that support teaching, learning, and business operations. This position is a working manager who provides hands-on technical support while managing the overall technology function.

As a working manager, the IT Manager directly performs and oversees a broad range of technology responsibilities, including network and systems administration, troubleshooting, equipment installation and repair, cybersecurity, technology projects, vendor management, and user support. The IT Manager also supervises the IT Support Specialist, responds to technology emergencies and system outages, and serves as the primary technology resource and advisor to school leadership.

Required Education, Experience, and Certification:

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field.
• 3+ years of progressively responsible experience in information technology, including network, systems, hardware, software, and user support.
• Experience managing and supporting technology operations across multiple locations; K–12 educational experience is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot, install, configure, maintain, and repair technology hardware, software, network infrastructure, and related systems.
• Experience leading IT projects, managing vendors and technology services, and overseeing technology-related purchasing.
• Experience supervising, training, or providing technical direction to IT staff.
• Strong knowledge of network infrastructure, cybersecurity, data protection, cloud-based systems, hardware, software, and technology troubleshooting.
• Experience supporting both Apple and PC platforms and familiarity with student information systems, learning management systems, and other K–12 technology applications.
• Ability to respond effectively to technology emergencies, system outages, cybersecurity incidents, and other situations requiring immediate technical support.
• Relevant IT certifications in networking, cybersecurity, systems administration, Microsoft, Apple, Google, Cisco, or related areas are preferred.

Performance Requirements:

• Develop and document an ongoing vision and strategy for the organization's technology infrastructure and services.
• Lead and manage the day-to-day technology operations and technical support services across all Wayside campuses.
• Provide hands-on network administration, system troubleshooting, equipment installation, configuration, repair, maintenance, and upgrades.
• Provide timely technical support and assistance to staff and campuses, including troubleshooting classroom and administrative technology needs.
• Develop tools, training, and resources to support the effective use and implementation of technology throughout the organization.
• Develop and maintain relationships with technology vendors, manage contracts and service agreements, and oversee technology-related purchasing.
• Identify grant opportunities and manage federal funding applications and service renewals through the E-rate program in accordance with USAC guidelines and regulations.
• Maintain system security, data protection, network integrity, and appropriate cybersecurity practices across the organization.
• Respond to technology emergencies, system outages, cybersecurity incidents, and other urgent technology needs to minimize disruption to school and business operations.
• Repair or coordinate the repair of technology-related equipment and maintain accurate records of equipment, upgrades, repairs, warranties, and replacements.
• Support the acquisition, deployment, configuration, and lifecycle management of computers, network equipment, software, and other technology resources.
• Serve as a technical consultant and resource to the administration, campus leadership, and curriculum leaders.
• Supervise, manage, and provide direction to the IT Support Specialist, including assigning work, establishing priorities, and providing technical guidance.
• Develop and maintain procedures for backup, business continuity, disaster recovery, and restoration of critical technology services.
• Monitor emerging technologies and make recommendations regarding technology improvements, replacements, security, and organizational needs.
• Assist with development and management of the IT budget and make recommendations regarding technology purchases and resource allocation.
• Travel between campuses as needed to provide technical support, manage projects, and respond to technology needs or emergencies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills Requirements:

• Strong interpersonal, written, verbal communication, and organizational skills.
• Strong customer service skills with a professional, responsive, and…