Deputy Director, IT & Broadband Infrastructure

State of Arkansas; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 107,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

The IT Infrastructure Architect and Deputy Director for ARConnect leads Arkansas' broadband expansion initiatives, overseeing state and federal funding projects to improve high-speed internet access while strengthening economic opportunity.

The position is on-site with no remote option, requiring strong leadership, program management, and collaboration with providers, agencies, and contractors to deliver reliable infrastructure that meets security and compliance standards.

Qualifications

• Experience in telecommunications or broadband deployment and project delivery.
• Experience managing complex infrastructure projects with budgets, schedules, and risk.
• Experience administering federal/state broadband grants (BEAD/ARPA).
• Knowledge of fiber, fixed wireless, and other broadband technologies.
• Experience coordinating with private/public partners.
• Advanced degree or PMP certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and oversight of broadband infrastructure projects.
• Monitor schedules, budgets, progress, and contractor obligations.
• Manage BEAD and grant administration, reporting and compliance.
• Lead organizational leadership and daily operations of the Arkansas State Broadband Office.
• Translate strategic priorities into actionable work plans.
• Represent the office in meetings with stakeholders and policymakers.

Skills

Broadband industry knowledge

Infrastructure project management

Grant program administration

Federal grant requirements

Broadband tech knowledge (fiber, fixed

BEAD/ARPA funding familiarity

Leadership and accountability

Financial and analytical skills

Stakeholder coordination

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in IT/CS/Networks or related

7+ years IT infrastructure experience

3+ years leadership experience

Job description

The IT Infrastructure Architect and Deputy Director for ARConnect leads Arkansas' broadband expansion initiatives, overseeing state and federal funding projects to improve high-speed internet access while strengthening economic opportunity.

The position is on-site with no remote option, requiring strong leadership, program management, and collaboration with providers, agencies, and contractors to deliver reliable infrastructure that meets security and compliance standards.