Director, Network Services

Overview

POSITION TITLE (Oracle title)

DIRECTOR 

WORKING TITLE

Director-Network Services

SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT

Technology Services Division

LOCATION

Crossroads II, Cary, NC

PAY GRADE

Director Band 2

FLSA STATUS

Exempt

ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT

No

WORK WEEK SCHEDULE

Monday-Friday (Some on-call availability and after-hours work may be required for system maintenance and emergency situations.) Position is eligible for hybrid telework. 

POSITION PURPOSE:

Oversees the planning, implementation, and management of all network infrastructure and services across the Wake County Public School System. Ensures secure, reliable, and scalable network operations to support the district’s educational and administrative needs. Leads a team of network engineers, collaborates with IT leadership, and manages vendor relationships to optimize performance, ensure cybersecurity, and implement upgrades. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

• Extensive knowledge of LAN/WAN, Wi-Fi, VPNs, cloud-based networking systems, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, encryption, and cybersecurity best practices;
• Extensive knowledge of IT compliance standards (e.g., FERPA, CIPA, HIPAA); 
• Extensive knowledge in enterprise-level network architecture, capacity planning, and systems integration;
• Comprehensive knowledge of project management methodologies and tools, particularly for large-scale IT network infrastructure projects;
• Comprehensive negotiation, procurement processes, and management of external vendors and service providers;
• Leadership and developmental skills with a team of network engineers, fostering collaboration and performance;
• Strength in developing long-term plans for network scalability, availability, and the adoption of new technologies to support the district’s goals;
• Strong ability to design and enforce network security protocols to ensure data integrity;
• Ability to manage network services forecasts, budgets, optimize spending, and make cost-effective decisions;
• Ability to make sound decisions based on technical knowledge, data analysis, and organizational priorities;
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing technology environments, staying current with emerging network trends and solutions;
• Ability to work effectively across departments and teams to ensure alignment with educational and operational needs;
• Ability to prioritize competing demands, respond quickly to incidents, and ensure; 
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form using a variety of communication techniques and tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information, collaborative efforts, and feedback;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school officials, school system staff, external agencies, vendors, advocacy groups, and stakeholders.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field;
• Five years in progressive IT leadership roles. 

An equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and experience which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully meet the essential duties may be considered.

CERTIFICATION AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

• Must hold and maintain a valid vehicle operator’s license according to the state of NC requirements and comply with WCPSS hiring requirements.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field;
• Eight years of experience in IT infrastructure management, with at least five years in a leadership role overseeing network or service provider environments;
• Experience in a large educational or public sector organization with large-scale IT environments.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Oversees design, deployment, and maintenance of district-wide network infrastructure (LAN/WAN/Wi-Fi).
2. Manages and ensures network security protocols and compliance.
3. Leads and mentors a team of network engineers and technicians.
4. Develops strategic plans for network expansion and technology upgrades.
5. Monitors network performance, troubleshoots issues, and implements solutions.
6. Coordinates with other departments and stakeholders for seamless integration of network services.
7. Manages vendor contracts and third-party services.
8. Performs other related duties, as assigned. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This job operates in a professional office environment with occasional visits to server rooms and various school sites within Wake County. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, scanners, and copiers. The position, at times, must be able to come into direct contact with school system staff, external agencies, vendors, and contractors. Work is considered heavy physical work, requiring the exertion of up to 50 pounds of force. The work requires driving automotive equipment.

EFFECTIVE DATE: 9/2024

DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this position. They are not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and skills that may be required by the employees assigned to this position. This description may be revised by the supervisor, with HR review and approval, at any time.

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