JOB TITLE: District IT Department Manager

SUPERVISOR: Superintendent

LOCATION: Central Administration

Job Summary

The District IT Department Manager provides strategic leadership and vision for the planning, development, implementation, and management of all information technology (IT) and educational technology initiatives for the district. This role ensures that the district's digital infrastructure is secure, reliable, and optimized to support both administrative operations and a 21st-century K-12 learning environment.

As a key member of the district leadership team, you will collaborate with the Berrien Regional Education Service Agency (RESA) and local stakeholders to ensure the district remains at the forefront of instructional innovation while maintaining rigorous data privacy standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Planning
• Develop and execute a multi-year District Technology Plan aligned with the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) standards and district instructional goals.
• Serve as the primary advisor to the Superintendent and Board of Education on emerging technology trends, risks, and investments.
• Manage the district technology budget, including capital outlay, and maximize funding through the E-rate program and state/federal grants.

2. Infrastructure & Operations
• Oversee the design, maintenance, and security of the district-wide area network (WAN), local area networks (LAN), wireless systems, and server architecture.
• Manage the lifecycle of all hardware, including 1:1 student device programs (e.g., Chromebooks, iPads), staff laptops, and interactive classroom displays.
• Ensure 24/7 reliability of critical systems: Student Information Systems (SIS), VoIP phone systems, security cameras, and physical access controls.

3. Instructional Technology Integration
• Partner with the Director of Academics to evaluate and implement software/platforms that enhance student engagement and personalized learning.
• Coordinate professional development for teachers and staff to ensure effective use of the Google Workspace for Education ecosystem and other digital tools.

4. Cybersecurity & Data Privacy
• Serve as the district's lead on cybersecurity, implementing robust firewalls, threat detection, and disaster recovery protocols.
• Ensure strict compliance with FERPA, COPPA, and Michigan-specific data privacy laws.
• Develop and lead "Digital Citizenship" initiatives for students and staff.

Qualifications & Skills
• Education:

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or commensurate relevant experience; Master's degree preferred.

• Experience:

5+ years of progressive IT experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role, preferably within a K-12 or public sector environment.

• Certifications:

CETL (Certified Education Technology Leader) preferred; Microsoft, Google, or Cisco certifications (e.g., CCNA, CompTIA Security+) are a plus.

• Technical Proficiency:

Deep knowledge of networking, cloud computing (Google/Azure), MDM (Mobile Device Management), and cybersecurity frameworks.

• Local Knowledge: Familiarity with the Berrien RESA service model and Michigan's MICIP (Michigan Integrated Continuous Improvement Process) is highly desirable.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Primarily office-based, but requires travel to various school buildings within the district.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

260-day contract; 40 hours per week

Salary based on education and experience pursuant to the Benton Harbor Area School Board policies and collective bargaining agreement for any position that falls under collective bargaining.

EVALUATION: The performance of this job will be evaluated by the Superintendent

• Benefits:

Comprehensive package including health, dental, and vision; membership in the Michigan Public School Employees' Retirement System (MPSERS).

Physical Demands: Ability to occasionally lift/move technology equipment (up to 30 lbs) and navigate facility spaces (e.g., server rooms, wiring closets).

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, talk, and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and depth perception. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Additional duties are performed by the individual currently holding this position and additional duties may be assigned. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts