IT Operations & Security Director (Deputy CIO)

Cowlitz County, WA; Kelso (WA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Cowlitz County is seeking an IT leader to plan, organize, and manage day-to-day IT operations onsite five days a week in Washington. The role oversees IT projects, vendor communications, system security, policy development, and budget planning.

You will guide staff, ensure project life cycles, and manage hardware/software procurement. The position requires broad IT leadership experience, strong communication, and the ability to coordinate across county campuses and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or related field or equivalent experience.
• Five years of experience as a Systems Administrator/Network Engineer or similar role.
• Advanced proficiency with Windows Server, Veeam Backup, M365, Public Records Request, and virtual server environments.
• Build partnerships and collaborate with staff at all levels.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass background investigation.
• Knowledge of AI governance and R&D.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day IT operations including monitoring timelines, end-user needs, help desk review, procurement, inventory, and reporting.
• Manage project lifecycles from requirements to acceptance and ensure alignment with business goals.
• Develop and implement communication, project roadmaps, training, test, and change management plans.
• Oversee procurement, installation, inventory, lifecycle maintenance, and license management of IT hardware and software.
• Lead requirements gathering and develop business analyses and workflow diagrams.
• Monitor IT security compliance (CJIS, HIPAA, PCI) per standards and policies.
• Coordinate IT operations across multiple county campuses for efficiency.
• Assist development of IT policies, strategic planning, metrics for budgeting, and training programs.
• Negotiate and administer RFPs and contracts; ensure vendor compliance.
• Respond to emergencies and system problems as needed.
• Conduct staff meetings and participate in necessary meetings.
• Act as CIO & Director of IT in absence of CIO.

Skills

Vendor management

IT operations

Project management

Communication skills

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or related field

5 years of experience in Systems Administration / Network Engineer

Tools

Windows Server

Veeam Backup

M365

Public Records Request

Job description

Cowlitz County is seeking an IT leader to plan, organize, and manage day-to-day IT operations onsite five days a week in Washington. The role oversees IT projects, vendor communications, system security, policy development, and budget planning.

You will guide staff, ensure project life cycles, and manage hardware/software procurement. The position requires broad IT leadership experience, strong communication, and the ability to coordinate across county campuses and regulatory requirements.