IT SPECIALIST

Information Technology SpecialistDepartment: Information TechnologyReports to: IT DirectorFLSA Status: This is an exempt, 12-month position with salary placement in accordance with the District's IT Salary Schedule. The position includes, one (1) sick day per month, four (4) personal leave days annually and accrued vacation pay. This position includes a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; participation in the Public Employee Retirement System of Idaho (PERSI).JOB SUMMARY: The Information Technology Specialist classification performs tasks in troubleshooting, installation, maintenance, and upgrading of computer and communications systems, repairing computers, peripherals, computer network problems, installing cable and working with other technology staff to keep hardware and networks working for the benefit of teachers, students and administration for the District. The position is differentiated from the Assistant Technology Director classification by the level of complexity of the duties performed. The principal duties of this class are performed in a general office environment.QUALIFICATIONS:Minimum:High School or GED equivalent;Five years information systems and/or Degree in Information Systems;Knowledge of computer hardware;Valid Idaho driver's license;Experience in computer repair services;System/operator certifications may be required;Knowledge of:Installation, maintenance, and repair of telephone, computer, alarm, and related systems;District operations and support functions;Personal Computer operation and set-up;District computer and network interface and security requirements;Principles and practices of data security management;Programming language and available software packages relevant to District operations;Installation, maintenance and repair of operating systems, networks and programs on personal computers;District policy and procedures for equipment use and operation;Customer service principles;Ability to:Diagnoses hardware and operating system problems and repair;Analyze computer systems, identify problems and develop logical conclusions and effective solutions;Identify causes of system failures and malfunctions;Develop and recommend cost effective technical system improvements;Install computer operating programs;Prepare accurate and grammatically correct written reports;Operate and demonstrate proficiency with computers (servers, desktops, notebooks, and other electronic devices used in the district), data networking systems, communications equipment, communication networks and organizations;Maintain confidentiality;Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing;Operate application delivery software, and various specialized application software;Communicate and work effectively with users, district administrators, vendors and consultants;Meet project schedules and timelines;Respond to user requests in a courteous and effective manner;Perform a wide variety of duties and responsibilities with accuracy and speed under the pressure of time-sensitive deadlines;Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the duties of the position.ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES (may vary by assignment ):Maintains the District computer, telephone, and supporting systems;Provides technical support for computers in the District, researching, developing, and implementing district wide computer systems and networks;Writes specifications, contacts vendors, and reviews bids for system additions and upgrades;Writes purchase orders for equipment purchases and reviews invoices;Performs regular archive backups of the system;Performs data file maintenance;Creates and maintains databases;Provides in-service training in computer systems and applications;Troubleshoots hardware and software problems for administration, computer labs, and district student devices;Performs data entry applications, training, and support for district developed software;Installs and configures software including district-developed software on all personal computers in the District that are allowed access to the system;Administers user access to the systems by adding, modifying or deleting access levels as needed;Troubleshoots hardware and software problems for the Minidoka School District;Knows and performs crisis procedures in absence of administrator;Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with District policies, procedures and safety practices.OTHER RELATED DUTIES:Consults with Maintenance Department on bids and specifications for wiring on construction and remodel projects;On call to respond to emergency situations;Performs other duties as assigned.ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL ABILITIES: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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to communicate effectively on the telephone and in person and hear sounds within the normal range of conversation; comprehend written work instructions, view computer screens for extended periods of time, prepare and review documents, comprehend wiring diagrams, blueprints, and technical documents and organize documents and materials; perform repetitive motions, to operate a computer and office equipment, operate a motor vehicle, and to operate a variety of power and hand tools and to make adjustments to equipment; lift or move objects that weigh up to 50 lbs. regularly and occasionally lift/move objects up to 100 lbs.; and to work in an office environment. Jobs in this class require performing repetitive hand movement in gripping, fingering and hand/wrist/arm movements. Related job tasks may require climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, working on ladders, reaching, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, and grasping, and working in small or confined spaces.CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT: All classified employees of the Minidoka County School District #331, including those in this position, are "at will" employees, meaning employment may be terminated by either the employer or employee at any time for any reason, consistent with applicable state or federal law. This job description/classification specification does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change as the needs of the District and position requirements evolve. Employment is contingent upon Board approval, successful completion of a federal background check, and a pre-employment drug-free workplace screen. The "at will" policy can only be altered if authorized in writing and approved by the Board of Trustees of District 331.