What are the responsibilities and job description for the IT and EHR Systems Manager position at Northwest Passage?
IT and EHR Systems Manager - Full-Time
About Us:
At Northwest Passage, we focus on mental health and wellness through the adoption of our PassageWay Elements: Nature, Recreation, Relaxation, Nutrition, Exercise, Relationships, Service, and Spirit. These elements are central to our approach, combining traditional mental health treatment with arts, education, nature-based therapy, and experiential opportunities. Since 1978, we've been dedicated to providing high-quality care in a community dedicated in hope, recovery, and wellness. Our facilities in Northwest Wisconsin offer a peaceful environment for our clients and staff, with easy access to activities and resources near Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, and Eau Claire.
Northwest Passage proudly serves individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, and we are committed to providing an environment where all feel welcomed and supported. Northwest Passage looks to build our team with candidates who demonstrate resilience, determination, collaboration, teamwork, and a strong work ethic. At Northwest Passage, you will foster hope through your involvement in the healing process. Guided by the PassageWay Elements, we strive to create a positive environment for growth and wellness for both our clients and staff.
Position Description:
The IT & EHR Systems Manager is a key IT leadership role responsible for scaling IT operations, modernizing technology, and transitioning the organization to a more structured IT framework. This position requires both high-level IT strategy and hands-on execution, making it an ideal fit for an IT leader who can drive long-term improvements while directly engaging in day-to-day operations. The role focuses on EHR system administration, IT security, and vendor management, while also leading user support efforts to ensure staff have the technology resources they need. A key responsibility will be creating scalable processes that reduce reactive IT issues and position the organization for future growth. This position will work closely with leadership to develop an IT roadmap, optimize existing systems, and establish best practices that bring structure and efficiency to IT operations.
Responsibilities:
IT Strategy & Scalability
About Us:
At Northwest Passage, we focus on mental health and wellness through the adoption of our PassageWay Elements: Nature, Recreation, Relaxation, Nutrition, Exercise, Relationships, Service, and Spirit. These elements are central to our approach, combining traditional mental health treatment with arts, education, nature-based therapy, and experiential opportunities. Since 1978, we've been dedicated to providing high-quality care in a community dedicated in hope, recovery, and wellness. Our facilities in Northwest Wisconsin offer a peaceful environment for our clients and staff, with easy access to activities and resources near Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, and Eau Claire.
Northwest Passage proudly serves individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, and we are committed to providing an environment where all feel welcomed and supported. Northwest Passage looks to build our team with candidates who demonstrate resilience, determination, collaboration, teamwork, and a strong work ethic. At Northwest Passage, you will foster hope through your involvement in the healing process. Guided by the PassageWay Elements, we strive to create a positive environment for growth and wellness for both our clients and staff.
Position Description:
The IT & EHR Systems Manager is a key IT leadership role responsible for scaling IT operations, modernizing technology, and transitioning the organization to a more structured IT framework. This position requires both high-level IT strategy and hands-on execution, making it an ideal fit for an IT leader who can drive long-term improvements while directly engaging in day-to-day operations. The role focuses on EHR system administration, IT security, and vendor management, while also leading user support efforts to ensure staff have the technology resources they need. A key responsibility will be creating scalable processes that reduce reactive IT issues and position the organization for future growth. This position will work closely with leadership to develop an IT roadmap, optimize existing systems, and establish best practices that bring structure and efficiency to IT operations.
Responsibilities:
IT Strategy & Scalability
- Assess current IT operations and create a structured, scalable IT framework that supports growth.
- Develop an IT roadmap focused on EHR implementation and optimization, infrastructure modernization, and security improvements.
- Standardize IT processes and policies, reducing inefficiencies and shifting from reactive to proactive IT management.
- Lead IT initiatives that improve system performance, security, and user adoption of technology tools.
- Ensure IT solutions align with organizational goals, compliance requirements, and operational needs.
EHR Administration & Healthcare IT Systems
- Oversee the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, ensuring reliability, compliance, and ease of use for staff.
- Work with clinical and administrative teams to enhance EHR functionality and streamline workflows.
- Manage system security, user access, and data integrity within the EHR environment.
- Lead EHR vendor relationships, ensuring the system meets operational needs and integrates effectively with other platforms.
IT Operations & User Support Leadership
- Serve as a hands-on IT leader, actively supporting end-users while developing scalable IT support processes.
- Oversee IT Support, ensuring timely resolution of IT issues while identifying patterns for long-term improvements.
- Provide technical expertise on complex IT issues, guiding staff and troubleshooting system challenges.
- Implement IT training programs that enhance user adoption of technology and reduce recurring support requests.
- Oversee IT asset management, ensuring efficient lifecycle planning for workstations, mobile devices, and software licenses.
Compliance, Security & Risk Management
- Ensure IT operations comply with HIPAA, data security regulations, and best practices for handling Protected Health Information (PHI).
- Monitor cybersecurity risks and implement safeguards, including encryption, endpoint security, and access controls.
- Conduct IT security risk assessments and develop strategies to mitigate vulnerabilities.
Qualifications:
Required:
- Experience leading IT operations in a healthcare or highly regulated environment.
- Proven ability to scale IT operations, transition from reactive to structured IT management, and implement best practices.
- Hands-on experience administering enterprise systems, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity protocols.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills across hardware, software, and network environments.
- Experience managing IT vendors, contracts, and cloud-based infrastructure providers.
- Ability to train and support staff in IT best practices, security policies, and technology adoption.
Preferred:
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Health Informatics, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Relevant IT certifications (e.g., Microsoft, AWS, CISSP, Healthcare IT certifications).
- Experience working in a mid-sized healthcare, behavioral health, or nonprofit setting.
Values:
In addition to responsibilities and qualifications, ideal candidates will show an understanding of and an ongoing dedication to actively applying Northwest Passage’s values, which are embedded into each role:
- Quality & Adaptability
- Respect & Compassion
- Leadership & Courage
- Connection & Well-being
Benefits of the Position:
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Holidays
- Retirement Savings
- Short-Term Disability Insurance
- Paid Parental Leave
- Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (mental health benefit)
- Longevity Benefit
- Voluntary Group Ancillary Offerings (Life and AD&D, Long-Term Disability, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance)
- Relocation Assistance
Location:
This is a hybrid remote position, with time spent on-site at our Frederic, Webster, and New Richmond, WI locations.
Northwest Passage is an equal employment opportunity employer.
