IT Public Safety Analyst

New Hanover County; Wilmington (NC); On-site; USD 62,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

New Hanover County is seeking an experienced IT Public Safety Analyst to join the Information Technology Department. The role focuses on analyzing, planning, procuring, designing, installing, and maintaining application systems across Public Safety.

You will act as the primary IT liaison for Public Safety, guiding GIS, data analytics, AI, automation, and integrations to support 911, law enforcement, fire services, and emergency management.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of computer hardware, software, and networking; SQL and relational databases; application integration and APIs; data analysis and visualization; GIS and spatial data; AI, generative AI, and automation technologies; cybersecurity, privacy, and responsible-use considerations.
• Public Safety experience is preferred but not required; ability to translate business requirements into technology solutions and communicate with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Analyze computer systems to determine hardware, software, and network needs.
• Design and maintain web applications and data exchanges for Public Safety.
• Provide training and ongoing support for end-users and departments.
• Develop dashboards, reports, maps, and analytical products.
• Evaluate AI, automation, and emerging tech for safety operations.

Skills

SQL & Relational Databases

GIS & Spatial Data

Data Analysis & Visualization

Application Integrations

AI / Automation Technologies

Vendor & Budget Management

Education

Bachelor's degree in computer science or closely related field

Five years of related experience (or equivalent)

Tools

GIS Platforms

APIs & Integrations

Job description

New Hanover County is currently looking for an experienced IT Public Safety Analyst to become a valuable addition to our Information Technology Department.

This role is responsible for analyzing, planning, procuring, designing, installing, and maintaining application systems across all Public Safety Departments.

As the primary IT liaison for Public Safety, this role spearheads the assessment of departmental needs, ensuring that related hardware, software, networks, data, and integrations are effectively managed. Bring your expertise to the forefront by actively participating in new technology implementations and projects, providing professional insight and skills to support the integration of geographic information systems (GIS), data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and emerging technologies to improve public safety operations, situational awareness, decision-making, and service delivery.

Primary focus areas

Public Safety Departments with a focus on enterprise public safety applications, system integrations, GIS and location-based technologies, data analytics, artificial intelligence and automation, and other technologies supporting 911, law enforcement, Fire Services, emergency management, and related public safety operations.

Essential Functions Include

• Analyzes computer systems to include assessing end-user needs; choosing appropriate systems; designing system processes; and determining system specifications for hardware, software, peripherals, and network connectivity
• Supports computer systems with appropriate applications by creating, testing, implementing, and modifying programs as necessary.
• Provides end-users with appropriate training on hardware and related software applications and provides ongoing system and application support to meet business needs.
• Provides ongoing maintenance for systems, applications, and data files.
• Assists with budgetary and procurement activities to include identifying suppliers; preparing bid specifications; securing software licenses; and assisting with the preparation of an annual budget.
• Designs, creates, customizes and maintains web applications for internal and external customers.
• Administers enterprise applications for data management and communication.
• Designs, implements, supports, and troubleshoots integrations and data exchanges among Public Safety applications, County enterprise systems, GIS platforms, external agencies, and third-party technology providers.
• Develops data analysis and reporting tools to provide data to end-users.
• Creates tools for automated data processing and workflow automation.
• Evaluates, implements, integrates, and supports artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and other emerging technology solutions that improve Public Safety operations, productivity, data analysis, and service delivery, with consideration for data quality, security, privacy, accuracy, responsible use, and compliance with County policies and applicable requirements.
• Installs software and provides training, documentation, assistance and troubleshooting for co-workers, end-users and external customers regarding appropriate use of software.
• Develops, maintains, and supports geographic information systems (GIS)-based applications, maps, dashboards, spatial datasets, and integrations used by Public Safety departments for operational response, planning, analysis, situational awareness, and decision‑making.
• Identifies system requirements for hardware, software, peripherals, and network connectivity.
• Serves as an advocate for the business needs of County departments and end users to the IT Department.
• Educates IT team and department members about the business needs, IT resources, applications, and services, in place at other county departments through cross training activities and documentation.
• Communicates and models a good customer service philosophy for the IT department by complying with all IT department standards for responding to customer service requests.
• Researches and evaluates emerging technologies, products, industry practices, and technical solutions that may improve Public Safety operations while maintaining existing applications and infrastructure.
• Documents application changes and upgrades within the IT Department's SharePoint-based Application & Service Catalog.
• Collaborates with departments to develop upcoming fiscal year IT budget requests. Reviews maintenance plans and projected renewal costs for supported departments. Assists with budgetary and procurement activities, including assessing needs, identifying suppliers, preparing bid specifications, securing software licenses, and assisting with preparation of the annual budget.
• Performs work with regular and predictable attendance consistently meeting the scheduling needs as required by the county.
• Performs work during emergency/disaster situations.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

Required knowledge and skills

Knowledge of computer hardware, software, and networking; SQL and relational databases; application integration and APIs; data analysis and visualization; geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial data; artificial intelligence (AI), generative AI, and automation technologies; cybersecurity, privacy, and responsible-use considerations; and business analysis, requirements gathering, process improvement, project coordination, vendor management, and basic business principles.

Demonstrated ability to work across both business and technical domains by understanding operational needs, translating business requirements into technology solutions, evaluating alternatives, and communicating effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders. Public Safety experience is preferred but not required.

Skilled in analyzing business, end-user, and system needs; documenting requirements and processes; configuring and integrating enterprise applications; developing reports, dashboards, maps, and analytical products; evaluating AI-enabled and emerging technology solutions; coordinating with vendors and project stakeholders; preparing and conducting training; and communicating effectively with technical and non-technical audiences.

Hours

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday - Friday.

Must be available to report for emergency work assignment during emergency situations.

Employment Type

Full-time, exempt

Salary Information

The target hiring range for this position is $62,126 to $83,870. The full salary range for an incumbent hired into this position is $62,126 to $105,615. Starting salary will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, internal equity, and budget. Candidates with exceptional qualifications and experience may be considered for a starting salary above the target hiring range, but not to exceed the maximum of the salary range.

Position Availability

This position is open until filled. Priority consideration will be given to candidates who submit an application by Friday, September 18, 2026.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in computer science or a closely related field and five (5) years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, management information systems, business administration, business analytics, or a closely related field and two (2) years of related professional experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential duties of the job.

Preferred

• A combination of business and technical education and experience is strongly preferred.
• Public Safety experience is preferred but not required.

Driver's License

• Valid Driver's License (from any state) and good driving record required at time of application.
• Valid North Carolina Driver’s License required by first date of employment with good driving record.

Living in New Hanover County, NC

New Hanover County offers an exceptional quality of life with its picturesque coastal location. Enjoy the stunning beaches, water activities, and a variety of recreational opportunities right at your doorstep. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, indulge in diverse dining experiences, and explore historical landmarks. The county is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a thriving arts scene. With a focus on good governance and a commitment to customer service, New Hanover County provides an ideal environment for both personal and professional growth.