IT Security & Network Services

Atlanta Public Schools; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Atlanta Public Schools seeks an Assistant Director, IT Security & Network Services to lead the district's security and network strategy. You will guide design, implementation, and ongoing operation of secure LAN/WAN/Wi‑Fi networks, aligning technology with instructional goals and district priorities.

You will collaborate with executives, manage budgets and projects, and drive continuous improvement in cyber protection, business continuity, and regulatory compliance across multiple sites.

Qualifications

• Requires a Bachelor's degree in a related discipline.
• Master's degree preferred.
• CCNA or similar network certification a plus.
• ISC2 CC or Security+ or similar security certification a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design, implementation, operation, security, and maintenance of the district's enterprise network infrastructure.
• Collaborate with district leaders to assess needs and provide strategic guidance on network architecture.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and vendors for scalable, secure solutions.
• Supervise IT Networking & Security staff and participate in recruitment and performance management.
• Monitor network availability, performance, and reliability to minimize disruptions.

Skills

Advanced networking

Cybersecurity

Communication

Strategic planning

Leadership

Budgeting

Project management

Regulatory compliance

Vendor management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Tools

CCNA

Security+ / CC

Job description

The Assistant Director, IT Security & Network Services supports the planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of the district's IT security and network services strategy. This position provides leadership to IT networking professionals, oversees the design, implementation, and maintenance of secure and reliable network infrastructure, and ensures technology solutions align with district operational and instructional goals. The role assists with strategic planning, budgeting, project management, and the integration of network and security initiatives to support organizational priorities, regulatory compliance, and business continuity.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION

• Bachelor's degree required in a related discipline or field
• Master's degree preferred

CERTIFICATION

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), or similar network certification a plus
• ISC2 CC, Security+, or similar security certification a plus

WORK EXPERIENCE

• 6 years of experience
• 3 years of supervisory or team leadership role required
• Experience in K-12 education or public sector preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

• Demonstrates advanced technical expertise in IT networking and cybersecurity, including the architecture, design, implementation, configuration, monitoring, security, and support of complex local area (LAN), wide area (WAN), and wireless network environments
• Communicates technical concepts and recommendations effectively to diverse audiences, including executive leadership, technical staff, vendors, and non-technical stakeholders
• Applies expertise in network architecture, infrastructure design, and security best practices to support reliable, scalable, and secure technology operations
• Builds collaborative relationships across departments to align network and security solutions with organizational and instructional needs
• Analyzes complex technical issues, develops effective solutions, and makes sound decisions in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Oversees the design, implementation, operation, security, and maintenance of the district's enterprise network infrastructure, including local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), wireless networks, internet service provider (ISP) connectivity, and related network services.
• Collaborates with district leaders and stakeholders to assess business and instructional needs, develop technical solutions, and provide strategic guidance on network architecture and infrastructure.
• Evaluates emerging technologies, vendors, hardware, software, and service providers to recommend scalable, secure, and cost-effective solutions aligned with district goals.
• Supervises, coaches, and evaluates IT Networking & Security staff by assigning work, establishing priorities, managing performance, supporting professional development, and participating in recruitment, hiring, and disciplinary processes.
• Monitors network availability, performance, capacity, and reliability; leads troubleshooting and restoration efforts to minimize service disruptions and ensure business continuity.
• Assists in developing and executing the strategic vision, operational plans, budgets, and technology roadmaps for enterprise networking and security services.
• Defines technical standards, develops specifications for network hardware, software, telecommunications, and related technology resources, and oversees implementation activities.
• Leads the planning, integration, deployment, and lifecycle management of enterprise network solutions to ensure secure, reliable, and high-performing technology services.
• Ensures compliance with district IT governance, cybersecurity, project management, and technology standards while promoting operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• Develops and maintains network support, disaster recovery, and business continuity procedures to safeguard district network infrastructure, telecommunications systems, and related technology resources.
• Serves as the Director's designee by providing operational leadership and decision-making authority in the Director's absence.
• Required to have prompt, regular attendance in person and be available to work on-site during regular business hours and as needed
• Performs other duties as assigned by the appropriate administrator or their representative

PHYSICAL ABILITIES AND WORKING CONDITIONS

The physical abilities, working conditions and other conditions of employment listed in this document are representative of, but are not intended to provide an exhaustive list of the requirements for positions in this classification. In the event of an emergency or situation requiring guidance from Federal, State, or local or school district authorities, the requirements of this position may change temporarily or for the school year to best serve the needs of our students.

Vision

Ability to read small print and view a computer screen for prolonged periods.

Hearing

Ability to tolerate exposure to noisy conditions

Speech

Ability to be understood in face-to-face communications, to speak with a level of proficiency and volume to be understood over a telephone or computer.

Upper Body Mobility

Ability to use hands to grasp and manipulate small objects; manipulate fingers, twist and bend at wrist and elbow; extend arms to reach outward and upward; use hands and arms to lift objects; turn, raise, and lower head.

Strength

Ability to lift, push, pull and/or carry objects which weigh as much as 15 or more pounds on a frequent basis.

Environmental Requirements

Ability to encounter constant work interruptions; work cooperatively with others; work independently; work indoors.

Mental Requirements

Ability to read, write, understand, interpret and apply information at a moderately complex level essential for successful job performance; math skills at a high school proficiency level; judgement and the ability to process information quickly; learn quickly and follow verbal procedures and standards; give verbal instruction; rank tasks in order of importance; copy, compare, compile and coordinate information and records. Understand how to manage stress

Additional Work Conditions & Physical Abilities

Will require travel to multiple sites.

The Atlanta Public School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, citizenship, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, medical status, military status, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, ancestry, or any legally protected status in any of its employment practices, educational programs, services or activities. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties.

This job description is intended to accurately reflect the duties, responsibilities and requirements of the position. It is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position. Management and administration reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary.

COMPENSATION

Salary Grade: IT5

Salary Range: Salary Schedules - Atlanta Public Schools