Under the direction of the Superintendent, designs and administers district-wide information systems activities in reflection of instructional and business needs; contributes to Cabinet-level strategy development and assists in the formation and distribution of district-wide communications; plans and manages technology activities and leverages resources across all school sites and departments based upon industry best practices and in reflection of organizational goals; and implements innovative and cost-effective solutions to optimize resources.

Leads the organization in identifying goals and strategies for the optimization of technology in support of district-wide instructional and business needs; advises Superintendent and Cabinet regarding technology infrastructure and security requirements; informs and participates in Cabinet-level activities and communications.

Coordinates with district leadership to identify opportunities for system enhancements, and the acquisition and deployment of technology, in support of emerging district needs and priorities; oversees the analysis of system requirements and integrates applications and infrastructure to facilitate and support district activities; and implements cost-effective and innovative solutions.

Develops and recommends district-wide technology policies and procedures; establishes standards for network equipment, device hardware, software, and connectivity; develops and implements security protocols to ensure the integrity of networks, information and telecommunication systems.

Provides expert consultation to Superintendent and Cabinet regarding technology related regulations, requirements and best practices to ensure compliance and the optimization of data applications.

Plans, organizes and oversees information technology activities; establishes organizational structure of the department and assigns roles and responsibilities; supervises and evaluates department staff; and interviews and selects employees and recommends transfers, reassignments, termination and disciplinary actions.

Directs the assessment and maintenance of information systems; oversees departmental activities such as systems analysis and design, computer programming, conversion of data, information storage and retrieval, management data controls; and develops and monitors technological performance metrics.

Collaborates with staff in all departments to plan, coordinate and implement services and programs in support of the District’s technology initiatives; prepares and disseminates communication plans for system implementations, conversions and integrations.

Consults and coordinates with the Educational Services Division to collaboratively support instructional technology leadership endeavors throughout the district.

Directs and supervises the development, implementation and maintenance of computer systems back-up and disaster recovery procedures and plans.

Plans and oversees the procurement and distribution of technological equipment and devices to students and staff.

Directs the development and oversight of the departmental budget to ensure consistency with district objectives and priorities.

Makes recommendations for the purchase and lease of equipment, and the contracting of necessary services.

Supports various departments in compiling data for the preparation of reports in accordance with local, state, and federal requirements.

Performs related duties as assigned.

Chief Technology Officer, is an exempt, management position that is also designated as senior management. The incumbent in the single position within this class is primarily responsible for designing and administering district-wide information systems activities and providing Cabinet-level support in the formation of district plans and strategies. Director of Information Systems plans, organizes, controls and directs the functions of the information systems in the District’s Technology Services department.

Knowledge of: Principles and practices of data processing program development, administration, and evaluation. Programming languages such as Java, Visual Basic, C/C++, database design and management, AppleScript, and common platform management applications. Principles and practices of, planning, design, installation, and maintenance of telecommunications systems. Operational characteristics and requirements of computer hardware and peripheral equipment. RDBMS platforms including Microsoft SQL, Oracle SQL, MySQL, and experience with related query and reporting tools. Troubleshooting and resolving filter, firewall, and network configuration issues. Principles, practices, and techniques for the operation of multi-vendor and multi-platform computer systems. Internet and Intranet development regulations standards. Information security and privacy requirements and practices. Educational technology programs, resources and best practices. Strategic planning and project management. Principles and practices of organization, administration and personnel management including supervision, training, and performance evaluation. Budget preparation and administration. Applicable federal, state, and local laws, procedures, and regulations. Customer service design, organization and operation. Effective communication techniques.

Ability to: Identify emerging technology advances, trends and issues, and evaluate them for organizational relevance. Develop and implement district-wide strategies and long-term goals. Solve complex, organization-wide problems and exhibit a system-wide perspective in the development of recommendations. Plan and administer the activities of the technology services department including data systems, district-wide telecommunications network and the installation, repair, and use of electronic equipment, software, and computer peripherals. Develop and implement programs to accomplish goals and objectives. Oversee and participate in the planning and development of departmental work plans. Plan, organize and direct the coordination, acquisition and use of computer and telecommunications technologies of the District. Evaluate computing requirements and user needs and advise on appropriate hardware and software configurations. Design, develop, implement, direct, review, and evaluate the strategic district-wide technology planning including instructional and administrative applications. Analyze strategic direction of district master plan for technology and information and provide solutions and future direction in support of plan and district goals and objectives. Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals. Perform cost benefit analyses of current and proposed computer systems and applications. Adapt to changing work priorities and participate in many complex activities at once. Demonstrate flexibility and resilience, and operate effectively under pressure. Demonstrate leadership in the development and implementation of change. Utilize current technology tools and computer software to maximize workflow and maximize staff productivity. Consistently demonstrate a high level of integrity. Assign duties, schedule training, and supervise and evaluate the work of technical staff. Review and check the work products of others to ensure accuracy and adherence to standards, with emphasis on excellent customer service. Conduct regular training and in-service sessions as well as provide technical assistance to district personnel. Communicate effectively across the organization. Maintain current knowledge of technological advances in the field. Express complex ideas clearly and accurately both orally and in writing. Operate office machines and equipment. Conduct meetings and make presentations. Learn, interpret and follow District policies and procedures. Direct the maintenance of a variety of reports and files related to information systems.

Essential Physical Activities and Work Environment: Work is performed in computer workrooms, District and school offices and classrooms; job duties require travel and access between these various locations. Microcomputers and peripheral equipment typically weighing up to 40 pounds must often be lifted, carried, and/or transported. Employee must be able to read, understand, and follow complex written materials, read computer screens and diagnostic equipment, enter data into systems, hear and understand ordinary conversation, analyze and resolve complex technical problems, and explain technical issues and procedural steps to non-technical personnel. The job generally requires 50% sitting, 25% walking, and 25% standing.

Typical Background:

Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information management, business administration, or related field. Master’s degree preferred. Seven years of director or higher-level experience, requiring independent planning and implementation of organization-wide information technology systems for an organization with at least 15,000 end users, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required combination of knowledge, skills, and abilities. At least three years of management level experience overseeing a technology services department in a school district or county office of education is required.

Licenses and/or Certificates: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Cisco Certified Network Engineer (CCNE), and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certificates are highly desirable. Possession of a valid California Class C driver’s license and use of an automobile or proof of an equivalent mode of personal transportation is required.

Qualifications: In order to be considered qualified for a vacancy in this classification, a candidate must possess the required background and successfully demonstrate such background, knowledge, skills and abilities through an examination process.

Established November 1, 2020

Approved by the Personnel Commission on November 19, 2020