Information Technology Specialist

General Job Information

Job Summary

This position is located in the District of Columbia Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (DCHSEMA), Information Technology Bureau. The mission of the District of Columbia's Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) is to lead the District's effort to prevent, protect against, respond to, and recover from natural and man-made emergencies by coordinating all planning and preparedness efforts and facilitating a common operating picture during events.

The incumbent is responsible for Tier I and Tier II support with hardware, software, and applications. The candidate will perform a wide range of activities that contribute to the overall end-user satisfaction. This position requires a deep understanding of computer software and hardware technology. Strong communication skills are also essential, as the Helpdesk technician must effectively communicate solutions to both technical and non-technical individuals. Patience, resourcefulness, and a desire to help other are desirable virtues for this position. Additionally, attention to detail and good organization skills are critical along with accurate incident documentation and tracking.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

The incumbent of this position will plan, manage, and coordinate activities for technology related projects which are technically complex in nature and may be a significant component of a larger-scale project. Reviews and evaluates proposals and subsequently makes recommendations for awards. Aids in the development of contractual documentation. Works closely with customers and / or stakeholders to develop comprehensive project plans, monitoring of project expenses and budget requirements, task descriptions, work breakdown structures, and to accomplish program / project requirements and mission objectives. Provides training, consultation and technical support services to functional analysts, programmers, remote processing customers, configuration management personnel, etc. on subjects such as operating system architecture and capabilities, system generation alternatives, configuration alternatives, data file management, system utility capabilities, standards and procedures, configuration management, performance management, capacity planning, and telecommunications network control and management. Makes or assists in making public presentations as assigned by their Director or the Deputy Director. Responsibilities will include application testing, vendor software upgrade implementations, in-house customizations, translation of user requirements into work order specifications, and the creation of system documentation. Identifies and evaluates new equipment and tools for improving productivity and streamlining delivery of DCHSEMA services. Ensures the readiness of equipment and facilities at all back-up emergency command center sites.

Qualifications and Education

Degree in computer science, engineering, information science, information systems management, mathematics, operations research, statistics, or technology management or degree that provided a minimum of 24 semester hours in one or more of the fields identified above and required the development or adaptation of applications, systems or networks.

Experience must be IT related; the experience may be demonstrated by paid or unpaid experience and / or completion of specific, intensive training (for example, IT certification), as appropriate. For all positions individuals must have IT-related experience demonstrating each of the four competencies listed below :

• Attention to Detail - Is thorough when performing work and conscientious about attending to detail.
• Customer Service - Works with clients and customers (that is, any individuals who use or receive the services or products that your work unit produces, including the general public, individuals who work in the agency, other agencies, or organizations outside the Government) to assess their needs, provide information or assistance, resolve their problems, or satisfy their expectations; knows about available products and services; is committed to providing quality products and services.
• Oral Communication - Expresses information (for example, ideas or facts) to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information (for example, technical, sensitive, controversial); makes clear and convincing oral presentations; listens to others, attends to nonverbal cues, and responds appropriately.
• Problem Solving - Identifies problems; determines accuracy and relevance of information; uses sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives, and to make recommendations.

Specialized Experience : Specialized experience is experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, one (1) year of specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression.

Licenses and Certifications

Certified Project Manager or Certified Program Manager certification preferred. IAEM Certified Emergency manager, or state-level emergency management certification highly desirable.

Work Conditions / Environment

The majority of work is performed in a typical office setting but field work will be required at times.

Other Significant Facts

Tour of Duty : 8 : 30am - 4 : 30pm (however hours can vary based on the mission)

Pay Plan, Series and Grade : CS-2210-12

Duration of Appointment : Career Service (CS) Term Appointment 13 months

Promotion Potential : No known promotion potential

Collective Bargaining Unit (Union) : This position is covered under a collective bargaining unit FAH. You may be required to pay an agency service fee through direct payroll deduction.

Position Designation : This position has been designated as security sensitive therefore the incumbent of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel Regulations, Suitability and as such, incumbents of this position shall be subject to criminal background checks, background investigations, and mandatory drug and alcohol testing, as applicable.

Emergency Designation : The incumbent is designated as an emergency employee and must be willing to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings, to support the District’s overall preparedness. In the event of an emergency, the incumbent may be called into work and classified as essential.

EEO Statement : The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.

Salary : $92,656 - $118,558