Director of Informational Services - Pine Bluff, Arkansas

Job Description for Director of Informational Services · Position Title: Director of Informational Services       · Job Status: Full Time Reports To: Superintendent · FLSA Status: Exempt Amount of Travel: Frequent Travel · Classification: Classified/ Certified Level: District Lev ...

Job description

Job Description for Director of Informational Services

Position Title: Director of Informational Services      

Job Status: Full Time Reports To: Superintendent

FLSA Status: Exempt Amount of Travel: Frequent Travel

Classification: Classified/ Certified Level: District Level Position

Date Created: January Work Schedule: 240 Days

Salary Range: $70,000 - $80,000 (Experience and certification will be considered.)

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Director of Informational Services provides visionary leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for all instructional and administrative technology systems across the district. This role ensures reliable, secure, and innovative technology and network infrastructure that supports teaching and learning, data-driven decision-making, and efficient district operations. The Director serves as a key member of the superintendent's leadership team, aligning technology initiatives with the district's mission, goals, and long-range strategic plan.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop, implement, and continuously evaluate a comprehensive district-wide technology and network strategic plan aligned with instructional priorities and district goals.
• Advise the Superintendent and Cabinet on emerging technologies, cybersecurity trends, and innovative solutions to enhance learning and operational efficiency.
• Lead digital transformation initiatives that improve student outcomes, staff productivity, and family engagement.

Network & Infrastructure Management

• Oversee the design, implementation, maintenance, and security of all district network infrastructure, including wired and wireless networks, servers, data centers, cloud services, and telecommunications systems.
• Ensure high availability, scalability, and reliability of all network systems to support instructional and operational needs.
• Lead disaster recovery, business continuity, and data backup planning.

Cybersecurity & Data Privacy

• Establish and enforce district-wide cybersecurity policies, procedures, and protocols to protect student and staff data.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations (e.g., FERPA, CIPA, E-rate requirements, and state data privacy laws).
• Lead incident response planning and manage cybersecurity risk assessments.

Instructional Technology

• Collaborate with curriculum, instruction, and campus leaders to ensure technology effectively supports teaching, learning, and assessment.
• Oversee the selection, deployment, and evaluation of instructional software, learning management systems, and digital tools.
• Support professional learning initiatives that increase staff capacity to integrate technology effectively.

Budget & Resource Management

• Develop and manage the technology department budget, including capital projects, E-rate funding, grants, and vendor contracts.
• Ensure cost-effective procurement, licensing, and lifecycle management of hardware and software.
• Monitor expenditures and ensure responsible stewardship of district resources.

Personnel Leadership

• Lead, supervise, and evaluate technology and network staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Recruit, train, and retain high-quality technology professionals.
• Establish clear performance expectations and provide ongoing professional development.

Stakeholder Communication & Support

• Serve as the primary district contact for technology-related matters with internal and external stakeholders.
• Communicate clearly with administrators, staff, students, families, and community partners regarding technology initiatives and system changes.
• Build strong partnerships with vendors, service providers, and higher education or industry partners.

Other Duties

• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the efficient and effective operation of the Watson Chapel School District.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

• Strategic and systems-level thinking
• Strong leadership and team-building skills
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities
• High level of integrity and commitment to data privacy
• Ability to balance innovation with reliability and security.
• Strong problem-solving and project management skills

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Educational Technology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive leadership experience in technology systems, network administration, or IT management (preferably in a K–12 or public-sector environment).
• Demonstrated experience managing enterprise-level networks, cybersecurity, and large-scale technology initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of networking, cloud computing, systems administration, and data security.
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage budgets, and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Valid Arkansas driver's license.

Preferred

• Master's degree in information technology, Educational Leadership, or a related field.
• Experience in a school district or educational setting.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM, CCNA/CCNP, ITIL, Microsoft or Google certifications).
• Experience with E-rate, instructional technology integration, and student information systems.

COMPUTER SKILLS:

• Experience with Microsoft Office, Google, access control systems, and other relevant systems.

EVALUATION/ PERFORMANCE REVIEW CRITERIA:

• The Director of Informal Services reports directly to the Superintendent of Schools or designee.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. This position requires frequent standing, walking, handling, and reaching.