Chief Information Officer

Socket.dev; Helena (MT); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement plans

Paid vacation and holidays

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Job summary

Montana Department of Commerce seeks a senior IT leader to direct information technology operations, shaping strategy, budgets, security, and system development to support our mission and Montanans. You will oversee network infrastructure, databases, the department’s website, and IT support for staff and remote users, guiding a dynamic team and aligning projects with state objectives.

Hybrid work within Montana with some travel to Helena; position remains open until filled with an initial review

Qualifications

• Advanced expertise in computer science, programming, databases, networks, and website administration to solve complex technical challenges.
• Strong proficiency with operating systems, hardware configurations, and diverse software tools.
• Proven project management and strategic planning skills for leading complex IT initiatives.
• Experience guiding and developing technical teams with coaching and prioritization.

Responsibilities

• Drive department-wide technology strategy and major initiatives with division leaders and stakeholders.
• Manage a dynamic IT team, providing direction, coaching, and performance management.
• Guide development and maintenance of the department’s website, applications, and databases.
• Champion data security and integrity through robust safeguarding practices and policies.
• Collaborate with users across the department to deliver effective technology solutions and support.

Skills

Computer science expertise

Programming

Databases

Networking

Website administration

Tools

SQL

Web servers

Job description

About the Department

The Department of Commerce aims to make sure Montana is the best place to work, live and play. We work alongside private industry and local organizations to create jobs, grow businesses, develop affordable housing, and improve community infrastructure.

We uphold excellence, integrity, engagement, and innovation by delivering respectful, creative, and accountable service through collaborative, resilient teams. Rooted in a deep love for Montana, we proudly embody its authenticity, independence, and industry as we serve and partner with Montanans.

(You can learn more about us here.)

About this Position

This role leads all information technology operations for the Department of Commerce, shaping strategy, policies, budgets, security, and system development that support our mission and the Montanans we serve. You’ll oversee network infrastructure, database systems, the Department’s website, and IT support for both local and remote users.

The State of Montana is undergoing IT integration, centralizing executive‑branch technology services. Once complete, this position will operate in a matrixed reporting structure, reporting to the Deputy Agency Experience Officer in the State Information Technology Services Division and the Commerce Deputy Director.

In this role, you will:

• Drive department‑wide technology strategy and major initiatives through strong collaboration with division leaders, IT staff, and stakeholders.
• Manage a dynamic IT team, providing direction, coaching, and performance management to support high‑quality service and innovation.
• Guide the development and maintenance of the department’s website, applications, and databases to provide reliable, user‑friendly tools for staff and programs.
• Champion data security and integrity through robust safeguarding practices, secure system design, and consistent compliance with enterprise security policies.
• Collaborate with users across the department to deliver effective technology solutions, resolve challenges, and provide expert support.

What are we looking for?

• Ability to apply advanced expertise in computer science, programming, databases, networks, and website administration to solve complex technical challenges and deliver effective solutions.
• Strong proficiency with operating systems, hardware configurations, and diverse software tools, with the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies.
• Proven strength in project management and strategic planning, including leading complex initiatives and aligning technology solutions with organizational goals and engaging partners across the department.
• Demonstrated experience guiding and developing technical teams, including setting clear priorities, coaching staff, and supporting collaborative, user‑focused IT operations.

This position will remain open until filled. An initial candidate review will occur on Friday, September 18, 2026.

Benefits:

• Look here to see the additional benefits! They include:
  • Work/life balance,
  • Health coverage,
  • Retirement plans,
  • Paid vacation and sick leave and holidays,
  • And more…
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness –Employmentwith the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the PSLF. Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify.

Other important information to be aware of:

• Only online applications are accepted. By applying online, you can receive updates and monitor the status of your application.
• This position allows for a hybrid work schedule from a remote location within the state of Montana. Weekly travel to Helena offices will be required. Specific conditions will be outlined as part of the job offer and must adhere to state policy. New employees may be required to complete training in person before hybrid work schedules begin.

This agency participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here,Link to E-Verify Website.