Director of Community Technology Spaces & Programming

Boston Public Library; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a visionary Director of Technology Programming to lead digital equity initiatives in Boston. This pivotal role focuses on ensuring access to technology resources for all residents, fostering digital literacy, and enhancing community engagement. The ideal candidate will oversee a dedicated team, collaborate with various city departments, and implement innovative programming that meets the diverse needs of the community. Join this dynamic organization to make a meaningful impact on the lives of Boston residents through technology access and education.

Benefits

Opportunity to impact digital equity

Collaborative work environment

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• 5+ years managing technology programs, preferably in public service.
• Strong understanding of technology infrastructure and security.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a citywide technology access plan.
• Supervise a team of 5+ staff focused on technology programming.

Skills

Digital Equity Principles

Project Management

Communication Skills

Data Analysis

Community Engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Information Technology

Master's degree in a relevant field

Tools

Technology Platforms

Job description

Overview

The City of Boston seeks a visionary and strategic Director of Technology Programming to lead our commitment to digital equity and technology access across the city. This role is pivotal in ensuring that all Bostonians, regardless of neighborhood, age, or background, have access to high-quality technology resources that foster digital literacy, skill development, and economic opportunity.

The Director will work in close collaboration with DoIT, BCYF staff, and other city departments (e.g., Age Strong Commission, Office of Returning Citizens, Office of Workforce Development), and external partners to ensure that technology programming aligns with the city's digital equity goals and meets the evolving needs of the community.

About Us:

Boston is committed to being a city where everyone has the resources they need to succeed in our increasingly digital world. We believe that access to technology and digital skills is a fundamental right, and we're looking for a leader who shares our passion for creating a more equitable and connected Boston.

The Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT) is Boston's tech hub, managing city IT infrastructure and services. DoIT drives digital access and modernizes city operations, ensuring efficient and secure technology across departments.

Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) is the City of Boston's largest youth and human service agency. BCYF operates community centers in Boston that offer a variety of engaging and enriching programs for people of all ages created through community input and need. BCYF also oversees many citywide programs.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Planning:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive citywide technology access plan integrating computer labs across multiple departments (BCYF, Age Strong Commission, Office of Returning Citizens, Office of Workforce Development) and coordinate with Boston Public Libraries.
• Assess existing technology infrastructure, community needs, resources, and programming to create a data-driven strategy for technology resource allocation.
• Design and manage sustainable financial models that ensure ongoing investment in technology resources.

Program Development & Community Engagement:

• Create relevant, inclusive programming that addresses various skill levels and community-specific needs.
• Expand and enhance citywide technology programming through strategic partnerships and community-driven needs assessments.
• Drive community engagement and build collaborative partnerships to ensure technology programming meets the diverse needs of Boston's residents.

Team Management & Coordination:

• Directly supervise a team of 5+ staff members focused on technology programming implementation.
• Coordinate effectively with staff from partner organizations and city departments.
• Provide mentorship, professional development, and performance feedback to team members.
• Foster a collaborative team environment focused on innovation and service excellence.
• Develop and implement strategies to recruit and retain qualified technology instructors.

Operations & Implementation:

• Oversee deployment and management of technology resources across multiple locations and departments, ensuring equipment aligns with programmatic strategy and is up-to-date and functioning optimally.
• Implement industry best practices for technology security, accessibility, and sustainability.
• Develop standardized operational procedures while allowing for site-specific customization.

Performance Management & Evaluation:

• Establish metrics and evaluation methods to assess the community impact and effectiveness of technology programming.
• Produce regular reports on program outcomes, resource utilization, and community benefits.
• Create feedback mechanisms for continuous improvement.

Cross-Departmental Collaboration:

• Foster strong working relationships across city departments.
• Align technology programming with broader city initiatives in education, workforce development, and community services.
• Serve as the subject matter expert on digital equity and technology access for the City of Boston.
• Coordinate community technology spaces across city departments in close collaboration with DoIT.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Manage the budget allocated for technology programming.
• Develop and/or contribute to grant proposals and funding requests to support technology initiatives.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and trends in digital learning and engagement.
• Participate in relevant citywide committees and working groups.

Minimum Entrance Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Public Administration, Education Technology, or related field.
• Five plus (5+) years of experience managing technology programs or initiatives, preferably in public service.
• Minimum three plus (3+) years of supervisory experience leading teams.
• Demonstrated success in project management and program implementation.
• Proven experience in community engagement, building partnerships, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven ability to develop and manage budgets.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to identify issues and problems and use analytical strategies and thinking to develop solutions.
• Strong understanding of technology infrastructure and security requirements.
• Excellence in data analysis and performance measurement.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to pass CORI/SORI background checks (required for working with minors).
• Experience developing age-appropriate technology programming for diverse populations.

Preferred:

• Master's degree in a relevant field.
• Experience working in municipal government.
• Background in digital equity initiatives.
• Experience with grant writing and securing funding for technology initiatives is a plus.
• Knowledge of educational technology and digital literacy programming.
• Familiarity with Boston's neighborhoods and communities.
• Experience working with youth programs and technology education for minors.
• Demonstrated success in cross-organizational collaboration.
• Certification in project management (PMP, Agile, or similar).

Skills:

• Strong understanding of digital equity principles and best practices.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct needs assessments and user research to inform program design.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in various technology platforms and tools.

What We Offer:

• Opportunity to make a tangible impact on digital equity across Boston.
• Collaborative work environment with dedicated colleagues.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Work that directly improves the lives of Boston residents.

C.O.R.I. Check Required. S.O.R.I. Check Required.

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

Union/Salary Plan/Grade: Non-Union/MM2-10

Hours per week: 35