IT Director, Networking and Communications

The primary location of this position is the Cullowhee, NC campus.

Reporting to the university Chief Information Officer (CIO), the Director oversees successful day-to-day operations of the network engineering staff, ensuring standard processes for the design, implementation, maintenance, and reporting of voice and data network operations.

The Director works closely with IT leadership to identify, implement, and support cost-effective, leading solutions for all aspects of network engineering, maintaining currency with industry innovations by participating in IT Planning, task force, and committee activities. The Director establishes and maintains trusted relationships with customers, partners, and IT departments to build an information technology strategy that responds to the business vision, goals, and strategy of the university and will participate in governance boards, councils, meetings, and campus-wide technology initiatives to understand current and future business needs. The Director also works closely with other IT leadership and Facilities Management staff to coordinate and participate in critical IT infrastructure systems and activities such as identity/security, disaster recovery, and IT cable plant.

The Director leads by example, demonstrating ethics and high accountability to create a culture of trust and transparency and is accountable for the development of team members by helping them set and achieve goals for their career growth and fosters an inclusive environment that values team member differences, creating a sense of belonging and appreciation.

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employment sponsorship or any immigration-related assistance. A master’s degree and 2-4 years’ relative experience and two years’ experience in a management or leadership role.; or Bachelor’s degree in business administration, computer science, data science, computer information systems, or a related field and 3-5 years’ relative experience and two years’ experience in a management or leadership role. Relative experience includes data and voice networking protocols, wireless network design and management, and TCP/IP network environment.

Master’s degree in business administration, computer science, data science, computer information systems, or a related field; or Five years’ experience in data and voice networking protocols, wireless network design and management, and TCP/IP network environment; and Five years’ experience in a management or leadership role. One or more of the following certifications: JNCIS-ENT, PCNSA, PMP, CWNA, CISSP, or CISM

Experience with IP configuration, routing, and troubleshooting. Experience working in a higher education environment. Deep understanding of network security procedures and common practices. Knowledge of Internet connectivity methods and practices. In-depth knowledge server hardware and peripherals, multiple server operating systems, and personal computer hardware and software. Thorough knowledge of diagnostic tools and procedures. Considerable knowledge of methods and practices in the installation and maintenance of information technology equipment in a large complex network. Ability to plan and manage a departmental budget. Experience supporting a DAS cellular infrastructure. Experience supporting Juniper, Aruba, PaloAlto, and F5 network equipment in an enterprise environment.

Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication and presentation skills across organizational boundaries. Ability to facilitate problem-solving among administrative groups with varying needs and priorities, and to communicate well with administrative users, technical staff, and senior management. Strong project management skills. Demonstrated ability to expand own skills. Solid organizational and time management skills. Budget management experience. Experience with vendor contract negotiations.