Technology Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:

The University's Technology Specialist supports the online distance and on-campus technology needs of the University. He/she provides leadership in technology use and is responsible for supporting LMS systems, user account management, hardware deployment, networking, software support, and training. The Technology Specialist also assists supporting students, faculty, and staff in IT helpdesk needs while ensuring availability of networking, computing and other resources on a day-to-day basis. The Technology Specialist serves as a liaison between the Manager of IT Services and the campus users. The Technology Specialist is responsible for managing the day-to-day functionality of all campus technology.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Research and implement beta-testing of software. Propose and evaluate processes and procedures for current systems and for monitoring and controlling appropriate software on all machines. Enforce campus cybersecurity policies, assist with phishing remediation, and ensure endpoint security software (antivirus/EDR) is active and updated. Responsible for staying current on technology trends both in the academic and business sectors. Conducts business according to recognized standards and benchmarks of MACU and seeks to instill a consistent and pervasive high level of professionalism in staff and leadership. Evaluates usage patterns and re-designs allocation of resources as necessary. Develop and maintain technical documentation, procedures, and training materials, ensuring the appropriate parties receive the necessary information. Serve as a proactive advocate for the appropriate use of technology. Maintain technical competencies related to LMS, Microsoft applications, Google, hardware, and other applications as necessary to fully support the University community. Supports students in the current LMS platform. Troubleshoot problems with applications, processes, software, and hardware for users, faculty, and staff, as well as any campus guests utilizing MACU systems or equipment, escalating when appropriate. Maintains knowledge and understanding of current web browsers and current and developing information systems technology, equipment, and systems. Responsible for maintaining educational and administrative technical equipment and facilities for maximum availability and efficiency. Manage installation, configuration, maintenance, and upgrades of hardware, software, and networked systems. Assist with the setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting of classroom audio-visual (AV) equipment and campus event technology. Monitor and maintain IT systems, servers, and endpoints for stability and performance. Maintain an accurate inventory of campus IT assets, including hardware lifecycles, replacements, and e-waste disposal. Ensure helpdesk tracking system is updated, accurate, and effectively utilized. Oversee setting up of new user accounts, system access, and security permissions. Fulfills duties or tasks assigned him or her by the Manager of IT Services, Director of Technology, CIO, or President. Attend and participate in chapel services as required, supporting the University's mission and contributing to the spiritual life of the campus community. All other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Working familiarity with Mac and Windows operating systems. Working familiarity with Learning Management Systems like Canvas. Debugging, optimization tuning, and troubleshooting skills. Knowledge of security, system backup, and disaster recovery techniques and best practices. Familiarity with the academic and business processes of higher education and the interrelationships between departments, data, and systems. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. Able to work both independently and collaboratively and thrive in a dynamic and demanding environment. Proven ability to manage multiple complex assignments with sensitivity to deadlines, priorities, and changing circumstances. Demonstrated professional work ethic, critical thinking skills, and positive, problem-solving attitude. Strong customer service orientation with the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical users (faculty, students, and staff). Candidates must have strong communication and organization skills. Higher Education experience is preferred. Other combinations of education and experience may be considered. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: BS degree in Computer Science or Information Technology (preferred); however, consideration will be given to those with prior experience and/or a desire to obtain a degree while at MACU. It is preferred that the Technology Specialist holds one of the following certifications: A+, N+, Security +, or MCP. COMPUTER SKILLS: Operating Systems: Proficiency with Windows 10/11, macOS, and Windows Server (2019/2022). Working knowledge of Windows Active Directory, Azure AD/Entra ID, and Google Workspace Admin. Administrative familiarity with Canvas, Blackboard, or Brightspace/D2L. Advanced support knowledge of Microsoft 365 (Teams, SharePoint, Exchange) and Google Workspace. Experience using IT Help Desk ticketing software. Familiarity with imaging and deployment tools (e.g., SCCM, Intune, Jamf, or PDQ Deploy). Working knowledge of computer parts, maintenance, and repair.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

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 accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work is performed primarily indoors (offices, classrooms, server rooms, etc.) but may occasionally be necessary outdoors (cable runs, exterior cameras, athletic field technology maintenance, etc.). The role requires frequent travel across campus to various buildings and departments to provide on-site technical support, hardware deployment, and troubleshooting. This is a variably paced, customer services-oriented environment that requires frequent, direct interaction with students, faculty, staff, and campus guests. Mid-America Christian University