Director of IT and Network Communications

We are hiring! Talquin Electric Cooperative is seeking an experienced technology leader to serve as our next Director of IT and Network Communications. This is an executive level, dual-function leadership role responsible for the cooperative's information technology systems, cybersecurity posture, and the network communications infrastructure that keeps our electric, water, and wastewater operations running reliably. The Director will oversee the planning, security, and performance of enterprise IT systems - including servers, networks, billing/CIS platforms, and end-user support - alongside the operational communications infrastructure, such as SCADA, radio systems, and fiber or wireless networks that connect substations, field crews, and control centers.

This role ensures that both business systems and mission-critical operational networks remain secure, resilient, and available around the clock.

• Lead and mentor our IT and communications teams supporting a 24/7 electric, water/wastewater utility.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the IT team, including hiring, performance management, and professional development.
• Serve as a key advisor to the CEO/General Manager, senior leadership, and the Board of Trustees on technology trends, risks, and investments.
• Manage the IT department budget, including forecasting, capital planning, cost control operation.
• Set the direction for our technology roadmap and cybersecurity program, protecting critical infrastructure.
• Partner with the Cooperative's virtual CISO (vCISO) to align cybersecurity strategy, risk management, and compliance efforts with day-to-day IT and communications operations.
• Oversee enterprise IT systems, including member billing, financial, and office systems.
• Oversee the cooperative’s communications infrastructure, including two-way radio, microwave, fiber, and SCADA communications networks connecting substations, water and wastewater sites.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Operations on technology tied to the electrical grid, water systems, and wastewater systems, including SCADA, AMI/metering, outage management, and GIS/mapping systems.
• Ensure reliable communications and IT system availability during storm response and outage events.
• Oversee IT and communications budgets, vendors, and major technology projects.
• Advise our CEO/General Manager and Board on technology strategy and risk.

• A collaborative leader who communicates well with vendors, technical staff, executive staff and the Board of Trustees.
• 8+ years of progressive IT and/or telecommunications experience, including leadership experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in technology, business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of experience and relevant certifications.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to make decisions in ambiguous, time-sensitive situations and communicate clearly with technical teams, business leaders, and senior and executive leadership.
• Strong background in network infrastructure, systems administration, and cybersecurity.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity, infrastructure, and enterprise systems, including networks, identity, hosting environments, and endpoint technologies.
• Experience with communications systems such as land mobile radio, microwave, fiber optics, or SCADA communications.
• Experience with NISC or Meridian Enterprise Resource Systems.
• Strong understanding of system interoperability principles across heterogeneous platforms, including familiarity with REST APIs, cloud services, and the Multi Speak protocol for enabling data exchange between disparate utility systems.
• Electric utility or cooperative experience strongly preferred.
• Ability to pass required background checks for access to critical infrastructure.