PRIMARY PURPOSE OF JOB:
The Director of IT is expected to possess broad expertise in enterprise IT systems, including end-user computing environments, network infrastructure, and server platforms. This role requires oversight of Windows and macOS environments, mobile device ecosystems, and related technologies, with responsibility for ensuring secure, reliable, and scalable systems that support organizational goals. This position works directly with the Vice President of Administration and may exercise limited independent judgment within established guidelines.
This position is responsible for maintaining the organization’s hardware and software, troubleshooting issues, and supporting users with their equipment, including computers, printers, and peripheral devices such as scanners, digital cameras, and external hard drives.
The Director of IT must possess broad expertise in enterprise computing environments, including end-user systems, network and server infrastructure, and cloud-based platforms. This role requires oversight of Windows, macOS, and mobile operating systems, as well as strong proficiency in Microsoft 365 (including PowerBI) and other core business applications, including productivity, database, collaboration, graphics, and backup solutions, to ensure secure, reliable, and effective technology services across the organization.
This description may not include all of the duties, knowledge, skills, or abilities associated with this position.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND PERFORMANCE AREAS:
- Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all information technology systems, infrastructure, and services to support organizational objectives in a secure, efficient, and cost-effective manner. Must have a focus on improving agency efficiencies, leveraging technology and automation, and initiating training on tech initiatives.
- Direct and manage the IT department, including staff supervision, training, performance management, scheduling, and ensuring continuous on-site coverage.
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Develop, implement, and annually update the organization’s IT strategic plan, aligning short and long-term technology initiatives with agency goals within budgetary constraints.
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Serve as the agency’s Information Security Officer, overseeing cybersecurity, physical security systems, access controls, encryption, backups, and compliance with applicable federal, state, and industry regulations.
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Oversee the development, maintenance, and security of network infrastructure, servers, cloud platforms, enterprise applications, and Microsoft 365 services.
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Ensure the reliability and proper operation of all technology and building-related systems, including telecommunications, security systems, websites, mobile devices, printers, network hardware, and access control systems.
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Act as the primary liaison with all contracted technology, telecommunications, and security vendors; manage vendor performance, contracts, and service coordination. Collaborate with contracted IT providers and Executive Team and Program Directors to plan, coordinate, and implement system upgrades, patches, and enhancements.
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Maintain accurate electronic inventories of all hardware, software, licenses, and digital security assets; establish and oversee lifecycle management and maintenance schedules.
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Oversee and ensure compliant decommissioning and disposal of technology assets in accordance with HIPAA and applicable data security regulations, including secure destruction of electronic records.
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Oversee regular testing, documentation, and monitoring of backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity systems to ensure data integrity and availability.
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Provide expert consultation and decision-making support to the Executive Team and Program Directors on technology strategy, risk management, and major IT initiatives.
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Report critical risks or near-misses to VP of Administration and oversee mitigation strategies.
- Compile monthly reports on IT performance measures for Executive Team.
- Recommend, evaluate, and approve the acquisition and deployment of hardware, software, and technology services in coordination with the VP of Administration.
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Ensure secure configuration, administration, and cost management of mobile device programs (cell phones and/or other equipment), including vendor accounts, billing accuracy, and departmental allocation.
- Maintain cell phone assignments on the Verizon online account to ensure proper billing to each department.
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In coordination with the Training Team, oversee employee training related to technology systems, cybersecurity awareness, and proper use of electronic equipment and applications.
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Manage employee technology onboarding and offboarding, including setting up and shutting down system access, accounts, and devices in a timely manner to protect data and maintain security.
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Participate in Leadership Meetings, ensuring the IT team and agency as a whole are updated on changes.
- Collaborate with the Executive Team on annual budgeting, forecasting, and monitoring of IT expenses. Work with Program Directors to complete Requisition forms for needed purchases.
- Will create videos using basic graphics and editing programs for staff training, client education, or other purposes as directed by VP of Administration.
- Maintain security digital keys and other physical equipment.
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Provide on-call coverage for urgent building security and technology-related incidents.
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Assist in maintaining the accuracy, functionality, and compliance of the Abilities First website.
- Make independent decisions and use judgment to solve significant IT matters in partnership with contracted support companies and the Executive Team.
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Establish and implement a maintenance schedule for all applicable hardware.
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Attend staff meetings concerning new or revised policies and procedures and implement new information accordingly.
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Maintain mass texting app to ensure up to date employee contact information. Send outgoing messages as directed by the Executive Team.
- Responsible and accountable for every aspect of the department.
- Perform other related work as assigned.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment described here is representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential duties and responsibilities of this job. The work environment is fast-paced and result-oriented, which presents multiple demands with frequent interruptions, constantly shifting schedules and priorities and simultaneous deadlines requiring the employee to be flexible, organized and cooperative. This position has access to confidential information. This requires the employee to maintain a high level of knowledge in confidentiality, agency policy and procedure, and applicable laws.
LEADERSHIP, ETHICS, AND PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT:
Abilities First employees are expected to model exemplary leadership at all times. This includes representing the agency in a positive, respectful, and professional manner through words, actions, and expressions. Employees are expected to communicate concerns, challenges, and differing perspectives through the established chain of command, using constructive, solution-focused, and professional language rather than judgmental or disparaging commentary. Abilities First expects staff to observe the highest ethical standards, maintain professional conduct above reproach and demonstrate unwavering integrity in all internal and external interactions.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
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Advanced knowledge of current software platforms, personal computer systems, and enterprise technology environments.
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Advanced working knowledge of Windows and macOS server environments, including system architecture and performance management.
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Strong understanding of computer programming concepts, system analysis, and technology planning.
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Ability to oversee and guide technical troubleshooting, maintenance, and system improvements performed by IT staff.
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Experience producing and editing video content under strict deadlines, as required to support organizational needs.
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Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
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Working knowledge of HIPAA and HITECH guidelines, practices, and exceptions, with responsibility for ensuring departmental compliance.
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Ability to identify and appropriately respond to potential abuse or neglect situations in accordance with regulatory requirements.
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Demonstrates ability to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with staff, leadership, and the public.
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Demonstrates a high level of professionalism, discretion, and ethical conduct.
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Ability to work flexible hours and provide on-call leadership support as needed.
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Ability to perform physical requirements of the role, including light lifting, extensive sitting, and occasional bending, standing, or stooping.
CORE COMPETENCIES:
Core competencies align with the Abilities First Core Values – OATH
One Team One Mission
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Contributing to Team Success – Actively participating as a member of a team to move the team toward the completion of goals.
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Engagement Readiness – Demonstrating a willingness to commit to one’s work and to invest one’s time, talent and best efforts in accomplishing organizational goals.
Accountable, respectful service
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Continuous Improvement – Originating action to improve existing conditions and processes, identifying improvements opportunities, generating ideas, and implementing solutions.
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Quality Orientation – Accomplishing tasks by considering all areas involved, no matter how small; showing concern for all aspects of the job; accurately checking processes and tasks; being watchful over a period of time.
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Technical/Professional Knowledge and Skills – Having achieved a satisfactory level of technical and professional skill or knowledge in position-related area, keeping up with current developments and trends in area of expertise.
Transparent stewardship
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Decision Making – Identifying and understanding issues, problems, and opportunities; comparing data from different sources to draw conclusions; using effective approaches for choosing a course of action or developing appropriate solutions; taking action that is consistent with available facts, constraints, and probable consequences.
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Planning and Organizing – Establishing courses of action for self and others to ensure that work is completed effectively.
Hold the rope
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Adaptability – Maintaining effectiveness when experiencing major changes in work responsibilities or environment; adjusting effectively to work within new work structures, processes, requirements, or cultures.
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Leadership Disposition – Demonstrating the traits, inclinations, and dispositions that characterize successful leaders; exhibiting behavior styles that meet the demands of the leader role.
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
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High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s or bachelor’s coursework in information technology or a related field preferred.
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Minimum of two years of relevant IT experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
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Industry certifications preferred.
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Extensive experience supporting a mixed-technology environment, including Windows and macOS systems, cloud-based platforms (e.g., Microsoft 365, Azure), and mobile devices.
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Working knowledge of video and basic graphics editing tools for website content, internal communications, and employee training materials.
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Demonstrated ability to lead technical strategy, oversee systems architecture, and support agency-wide technology initiatives.
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Proven experience leading, coaching, and evaluating IT staff and vendors, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
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Demonstrated responsibility for IT budgets, vendor contracts, and resource allocation, ensuring cost-effective solutions, transparent stewardship, and strong return on investment.
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Experience establishing and enforcing IT governance, cybersecurity practices, data privacy standards, and compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
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Must have a valid Missouri driver’s license, reliable transportation, an acceptable driving record, and auto liability insurance that meet the requirements set by Abilities First.
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Must have secure and reliable high-speed internet to work remotely.
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Must be able to pass a background screening.
PHYSICAL CONTEXT AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job duties.
Physical Requirements
Percentage of Work Time Spent on Activity
0-24%
25-49%
50-74%
75-100%
Seeing: Must be able to see to read documents/reports and focus on computer for an extended period.
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Hearing: Must be able to hear well enough to communicate with coworkers and general public.
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Sitting: Must be able to sit for long periods of time.
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Standing/Walking: Must be able to move about the work area.
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Climbing/Stooping/Kneeling: Must be able to stoop or kneel to pick up items off the floor and filing in a bottom drawer file cabinet.
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Lifting/Pulling/Pushing: Must be able to lift 20 pounds with or without reasonable assistance.
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Driving: Must be able to drive locally for work-related assignments.
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Grasping/Feeling: Must be able to type, handle documents, and use equipment and electronic devices.
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The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed but are not to be seen as a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Also, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.
Updated: 05.06.2014, 04.18.2016; 01.01.2020; 09.01.2020; 10.05.2020; 11.18.2020; 12.08.2020; 12.06.2021; 07.14.202; 12.02.2024; 02.02.2026
