Information Technology Specialist

Information Technology OfficerThis position is for the Kenner Fire Department. It does not fall under Kenner Civil Service. This class comprises a responsible, non-supervisory position, the primary duties of which include the maintenance, programming, security and repair of the fire department's computer/network system and related equipment. The Information Technology Officer is also responsible for assisting with the maintenance of the computerized records management system and responding to requests from system users for assistance with computer, networking or technology problems. The employee of this class works with a moderate degree of supervision, reporting to and having work reviewed by the Fire Chief.Examples listed below are illustrative only. They are not intended to include all duties which may be assigned, neither are they intended to exclude other duties which may be logical assignments to this class. Performs duties related to information technology, computerized records management, equipment management and training. Determines how department computer/networking system should be organized with respect to the number of computers, printers, etc. Serves as computer network administrator while assisting providers in setting up and maintaining the local computer network. Designs, implements, and maintains department telephone switches and network servers, as well as voice, data, and video networks. Monitors network to ensure availability and resolves data communication problems by entering program codes and performing appropriate back-up functions. Maintains user access to the internet, and departmental email accounts. Takes prescribed security measures to safeguard information in computer files and software against unauthorized modification, destruction or disclosure. Provides administrative services such as password assignment and maintenance. Reviews employee violations of computer security or procedures, communicates with employees to ensure violations are not repeated and reports such to a superior officer. Responds to and records problems which occur with computer systems/operation, taking remedial action and assisting system users as needed. Administers and monitors computer program controls by deleting unauthorized users and specifying which data can be accessed by ensuring compatibility with planned security measures. Responds to inquiries and emergency alarms concerning problems with system operations and corrects program errors using methods such as modifying program or altering sequence of program steps. Evaluates work load and capacity of computer system to determine feasibly of expanding or enhancing computer operations. Designs and implements a computerized records management system. Develops and recommends policies for use of the records management system. Participates in the maintenance and modification of a computerized fire department records management system used to track and report departmental activity. Maintains and manages all electronic files for the department. Evaluates existing records management system and confers with department personnel to gather suggestions for improvement to the system. Obtains information by reading graphs, charts, manuals or by running queries, and performs statistical analysis of data. Compiles and organizes information needed to prepare reports, and correspondence, or to develop new forms for the effective dissemination of departmental information. Personally completes, files and retrieves all reports, forms or records, as needed. Assures that the record management system is kept current and maintained in order to accurately track departmental activity. Transfers data from paper to electronic files. Reviews records retention schedules and record- keeping requirements to determine timetables for transferring active records to inactive or archival storage, and for destroying obsolete or unnecessary records. Maintains records of all software license agreements and performs audits to ensure compliance. Installs, modifies, inspects and makes repairs to computer hardware, software, cables and peripheral components. Loads software such as operating systems, word processing or spreadsheet programs into computers. Inspects, repairs, and coordinates installation of network wires and cables. Enters diagnostic commands into computer to determine nature of reported problems. Inspects the appearance of assigned equipment and maintains an equipment replacement schedule to ensure proper working order of all computer-related equipment. Investigates all accidents involving department computer equipment, determines cause, and formulates procedure to avoid future accidents. Researches programs and components needed to improve the department's technology functions. Makes recommendations to superiors regarding the purchase of computer network equipment, hardware or software. Maintains inventory records on all department owned computer hardware, peripherals, and communications equipment. Meets with division heads to review requests for computer equipment and supplies. Meets with computer hardware and software vendors to review products related to the departmental computer/networking systems. Purchases, stores, organizes and distributes supplies and equipment for the division. Writes specifications for new computer equipment, prepares these specifications for public bids, and oversees the bidding process. Assists the fire administration in compiling information to develop the departmental budget and in writing grants related to information technology. Develops, provides and attends training related to technology, operating manuals, software and computer operations to all levels within the department. Prepares written procedures and manuals to be used by department personnel in the operation of the computer systems and applications. Provides technical assistance and training to system users. Serves as a course instructor and provides on-the-job training to employees. Reads service manuals, parts books and other material as needed to perform required duties. Provides assistance to other public service agencies during emergencies, in order to share information or data. Answers incoming calls and promotes a positive image of the department when interacting with the public or other agencies. Performs any related duties assigned.Unless otherwise specified, all requirements listed below must be met by the filing deadline for application for admission to the examination. Must meet all requirements of the Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service Law, including being a citizen of the United States, and not less than twenty-one (21) years of age. After offer of employment, but before beginning work in this class, must pass a physical examination, the selection and administration of which shall be authorized by the Appointing Authority, designed to demonstrate good health and physical fitness sufficient to perform the essential duties of the position, with or without accommodation. Must possess a valid driver's license. Must have a minimum of an associate's degree in an information technology field and three (3) years' full-time work experience in an electronic computer or communications equipment related field performing technology maintenance, with knowledge of hardware/software necessary for office related tasks.Comprehensive medical benefits options are provided through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana. Coverage is effective the first of the following month, following full-time employment. Dependent coverage is also available. The City of Kenner also offers voluntary insurance plans: DENTAL, VISION, and SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE PLANS (VOLUNTARY LIFE, CANCER, ACCIDENT, CRITICAL ILLNESS, HOSPITAL CONFINEMENT, LONG-TERM DISABILITY and SHORT-TERM DISABILITY). All full-time employees are insured under a Group Life Insurance policy through Prudential Life Insurance Company. The coverage is one and half times the employee's salary, up to $300,000. The policy also provides a Basic Accidental Death and Dismemberment benefit. The premium cost is covered by the City of Kenner. Coverage is effective the first of the following month, following full time employment. The City of Kenner's regular full time employees are enrolled with the Municipal Employees Retirement System of Louisiana. Both the City of Kenner and the employee contribute the required percent to the system. The employee's contributions are kept on account and will be refunded, if the employees leaves employment before they are retirement eligible. The City of Kenner currently participates in a 457 Plan with MassMutual. This is a voluntary investment program that the employees are allowed to participate in at a contribution rate of their choice (must be within the designated maximum and minimum limits, as set for by Plan Document). The City of Kenner does not contribute to the 457 Plan. Sixteen paid official holidays are observed, plus any other holidays which may be declared by the Mayor. Eligible Kenner employees earn annual leave and sick leave. Accrual of hours will increase based on the number of years of service. Upon appointment to a position in the classified service, the employee shall serve a working test period of six (6) months, unless extended. The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a program which provides a professional to help employees and their families to resolve problems. This service is 24 hrs. / 7 days per week, voluntary participation and confidential. Kenner reserves the right to at any time and from time to time to modify or amend, in whole or in part, any or all of the provisions of the benefit package.