Specialist IT Application Support

Academy Sports and Outdoors; Katy (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Academy Sports + Outdoors is seeking an IT Support professional to provide technical help for applications, systems, and end users. You will monitor systems, troubleshoot issues, log incidents in ITSM tools, and assist with deployments and routine maintenance.

Ideal candidates have 0-2+ years of experience, knowledge of Java stack, SQL Server, and cloud basics, with strong communication and teamwork skills. This is an in-office, Monday–Friday role at the corporate headquarters.

Qualifications

• 0-2+ years of work experience
• Java EE, Java Script, XML and XSD experience required
• Experience with Microsoft SQL Server and object oriented development principles required
• Knowledge supporting mobile applications and administration preferred
• Basic knowledge of Windows/Linux, databases, Cloud, and web based applications
• Exposure to scripting or automation (Python, PowerShell, Shell, etc.) preferred
• Familiarity with AI assisted tools, monitoring platforms, or automation frameworks preferred
• Basic knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Understanding of ITIL concepts, incident management, and root cause analysis
• Previous internship or academic project experience in IT support, automation, or application development (a plus)

Responsibilities

• Provide required technical support for applications, systems, and end users via ticketing tools, email, or collaboration platforms
• Monitor applications and systems, identify issues, and perform initial troubleshooting
• Log, track, and update incidents, service requests, and known issues in ITSM tools (e.g., ServiceNow, Jira, etc.)
• Escalate issues to senior support teams with clear diagnostics and documentation
• Assist with application deployments, configuration changes, and routine maintenance activities
• Perform automations related to basic server, job, and service health checks and validations
• SOX/Non-SOX Reporting Automation and Simplification
• Create and maintain support documentation, runbooks, and knowledge articles
• Support post incident reviews and help identify preventive actions
• Collaborate with cross functional IT teams during upgrades, releases, and maintenance windows
• Develop a thorough understanding of Academy policies, procedures and safety rules
• Duties may change; team members may be required to perform other duties as assigned
• Physical Requirements & Attendance: This is an in-office role, Monday-Friday, with regular presence required at the corporate headquarters Regular, reliable attendance is required Flexibility to work varied hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs

Skills

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Pressure management

Independent work

Education

High School diploma or equivalent / Bachelor's degree in CS/IT/Engineering

Tools

ServiceNow

Jira

SQL Server

Windows/Linux

Job description

Who We Are At Academy Sports + Outdoors our vision is to be the best sports + outdoors retailer in the country - but what truly sets us apart is our people. We're a passionate, purpose-driven team that's as committed to each other as we are to our customers. We've spent over 80 years building a culture that puts people first. We believe in creating opportunities for growth, fostering meaningful connections, and supporting every Team Member's journey. What fuels us? Our belief in the power of fun. Here, you won't just help customers gear up for their next adventure - you'll launch one of your own. Whether you're starting out or leveling up, Academy is a place where fun can't lose!

Education

High School diploma or equivalent Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related degree

Work Experience

• 0-2+ years of work experience
• Java EE, Java Script, XML and XSD experience required
• Experience with Microsoft SQL server and object oriented development principles required

Knowledge

• Knowledge supporting mobile applications and administration preferred
• Basic knowledge of Windows/Linux, databases, Cloud, and web based applications
• Exposure to scripting or automation (Python, PowerShell, Shell, etc.) preferred
• Familiarity with AI assisted tools, monitoring platforms, or automation frameworks preferred
• Basic knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Understanding of ITIL concepts, incident management, and root cause analysis

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous internship or academic project experience in IT support, automation, or application development (a plus)

Skills

• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, and interface effectively with individuals at various levels
• Ability to work well under pressure while consistently meeting time sensitive deadlines
• Self-motivated with the ability to work on multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently, as well as effectively contribute to a team environment
• Analytical with strong problem-solving abilities and creative resolution skills

Responsibilities

• Provide required technical support for applications, systems, and end users via ticketing tools, email, or collaboration platforms
• Monitor applications and systems, identify issues, and perform initial troubleshooting
• Log, track, and update incidents, service requests, and known issues in ITSM tools (e.g., ServiceNow, Jira, etc.)
• Escalate issues to senior support teams with clear diagnostics and documentation
• Assist with application deployments, configuration changes, and routine maintenance activities
• Perform automations related to basic server, job, and service health checks and validations
• SOX/Non-SOX Reporting Automation and Simplification
• Create and maintain support documentation, runbooks, and knowledge articles
• Support post incident reviews and help identify preventive actions
• Collaborate with cross functional IT teams during upgrades, releases, and maintenance windows
• Develop a thorough understanding of Academy policies, procedures and safety rules
• Duties may change; team members may be required to perform other duties as assigned
• Physical Requirements & Attendance: This is an in-office role, Monday-Friday, with regular presence required at the corporate headquarters Regular, reliable attendance is required Flexibility to work varied hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs Acceptable level of hearing and vision to perform job duties

Equal Employment Opportunity

Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate with regard to employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by law.

Academy Sports + Outdoors is one of the nation's largest sporting goods and outdoor retailers. It's no surprise that we not only know how to create experiences for our customers, but for our team members as well. Understanding our people and the things that matter to them the most has been at the core of the Academy culture for over 80 years. With more than 22,000 team members, we take pride in creating a workplace environment that values hard work, commitment, and growth.