POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Project Specialist is responsible for overseeing the full lifecycle of IT projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget. The Senior Project Specialist will provide daily oversight and project management functions related to IT projects within TRA. This role ensures projects align with organizational objectives and deliver measurable value. The Senior Project Specialist will manage resources, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies to ensure successful outcomes. The Senior Project Specialist is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing projects that involve IT infrastructure, systems and applications, and construction activities. This role ensures seamless integration of technology systems within new or renovated facilities, managing timelines, budgets, and compliance requirements while collaborating with multiple stakeholders.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Gather requirements, develop scope, and document technical solutions based on technical requirements for all IT Project Requests and Capital Improvement Projects. Maintain project documentation for audits and future reference.
2. Review, document, and annotate blueprints or diagrams for all IT requirements. Assist with the development of information technology standards to be implemented in Northern Region Engineering Projects and Capital Improvement Planning projects. Manage IT asset inventory implemented/installed with all CIP projects.
3. Develop plans and create specialized reports for all technical projects to be presented to the Information Technology Governance Committee and senior leadership.
4. Identify potential issues and implement solutions proactively during implementation or construction. Serve as the team's technical subject-matter expert and a resource for technical solutions.
5. Develop, implement, and monitor projects within the project management tool to process, develop, and manage all IT projects to achieve the Authority's mission, strategic plan, and Board priorities.
6. Evaluate vendor and professional services invoices and monitor project expenditures.
7. Prepares Request for Proposals for high-tech procurements based on TRA's procurement policies and guidelines. Reviews and assists with the contract development for IT-related projects, ensuring compliance with organizational standards, legal requirements, and vendor agreements.
8. Facilitate communication between stakeholders, developers, and other departments. Manage expectations and provide regular updates on projects to ensure transparency and understanding of status.
9. Ensure IT infrastructure aligns with information technology and industry standards.
10. Validate compliance with cybersecurity and data protection regulations. Maintain documentation for IT systems and ensure disaster recovery readiness.
11. Essential personnel are required to report to work when scheduled during departmental and/or emergency situations, including, but not limited to, extended periods of inclement weather when travel may be difficult. This position is essential because, in the absence of sufficient personnel, the plant cannot operate safely.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position does not regularly provide personnel management to any staff employees.
FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Development of project budgets, review and recommend professional service invoices and contractor pay applications for payment, and recommend authorization of funds within professional services.
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, engineering, or other technical fields.
EXPERIENCE
Minimum of two years of project management and/or construction project management related to information technology. Proven track record of managing projects that involve both technology and physical infrastructure. Experience coordinating multiple vendors and contractors.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
Required:
• PMP (Project Management Professional)
• SEC+, CCNA: Required
• Valid Texas Driver's License Required
Preferred: CCNP, GIAC, CAPM, PE
KNOWLEDGE
To perform effectively as an IT Project Manager, one must possess a solid understanding of project management principles, including planning, budgeting, scheduling, and risk management, alongside technical knowledge of infrastructure, networking, cloud systems, and cybersecurity. Familiarity with the software development lifecycle, contract and vendor management, and compliance with security and data privacy standards is essential. Strong communication and leadership skills are critical for stakeholder engagement and team coordination. For projects involving construction, knowledge of building codes, safety standards, and environmental requirements for IT systems ensures seamless integration of technology within physical spaces. Proficiency in standard office software products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc) and must possess the ability to learn other engineering and project management software as needed.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
An effective IT Project Manager demonstrates strong project management skills, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, and risk management, combined with technical expertise in IT infrastructure, networking, cloud systems, and cybersecurity. They possess excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities to address complex challenges and ensure successful project delivery. Strong leadership and interpersonal skills enable them to manage teams, resolve conflicts, and maintain clear communication with stakeholders. Organizational abilities such as time management, resource allocation, and multitasking are essential, along with adaptability to evolving technologies and dynamic environments. Oral and written communication and collaboration skills. Ability to solve problems, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to changing technologies and environments.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
On-time delivery of IT and construction milestones.
Budget adherence within approved limits.
Compliance with safety and IT security standards.
Stakeholder satisfaction and minimal change orders.
GUIDANCE RECEIVED
Typically receives general direction about assignments and work results to be attained. Requires judgment to determine which methods apply and what data/information should be considered. Position must think through how issues can be addressed within existing policies and procedures, and may assist others with more complex work methods and problems.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position requires moderate physical exertion with lifting requirements of 10 pounds daily and occasional lifting from 10 to 50 pounds. Physical mobility is required to conduct site visits.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Duties are generally carried out in an office environment with periodic fieldwork required. This may include abnormal hours and stress in resolving problems, administering professional services and contractor contracts, and attending meetings.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
Office equipment, including personal computers, printers, calculators, copiers, and Authority vehicles.
