Technical Systems Specialist

University of Houston System; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 56,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Houston System Information Technology department seeks a Technical Systems Specialist to provide cross-functional IT support for unit projects. The role covers server, software, and network systems while upholding security standards and CJIS policies.

This position requires basic security awareness training and fingerprinting for access. Collaboration with various teams and after-hours support are expected as part of ongoing maintenance and security operations.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or equivalent in Information Technology, Business, or related field; one year of hands-on experience with organizational systems, networking, or infrastructure.
• Bachelor’s degree in IT or related field is preferred; three years of in-field technician experience with Public Safety Technology/IT in higher education is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Implements IT strategies and oversees installation, configuration, operation, and maintenance of server, software, network systems, and hardware.
• Coordinates with users to identify technology needs and ensures effective utilization of IT resources.
• Monitors system performance, resolves issues, and optimizes IT infrastructure.
• Enforces IT security policies and procedures to safeguard data and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinates IT projects including planning, resource allocation, and task coordination to meet goals.
• Conducts regular system audits to identify vulnerabilities and implement security measures.
• Collaborates with internal users, vendors, and contractors to procure and implement IT solutions.
• Stays current on emerging technologies and recommends adoption to improve efficiency.
• Provides evening and after-hours support for maintenance events and related duties.

Skills

IT support

Networking

System monitoring

Security policies

Communication

Time management

Team collaboration

Education

Associate's degree in IT or related field

Bachelor's degree in IT or related field

Tools

Active Directory

Windows Server

Firewall management

Job description

Department:

Information Technology

Salary:

Commensurate with Experience

Description:

The Technical Systems Specialist provides technical support for multiple complex unit-level projects or operations utilizing multiple technical fields for Information Technology and specific University Police Department systems related to IT. Maintains technical standards for implementing unit projects or operations. Serves as a team member with responsibility for enforcing and supporting various technology systems adhering to technical standards and direction of Information Technology. This position requires basic security awareness training, as per CJIS Security Policy, for all personnel who have unescorted access to physically secure locations within University PD, including TLETS. This training requires fingerprinting and background checks prior to access being granted.

Pursuant to the State of Texas Executive Order No. GA-48, this position researches, works on, or has access to critical infrastructure and requires the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the University infrastructure. This position requires personnel to be routinely reviewed to determine whether or not criminal history or continuous connections for the government or political apparatus of a foreign adversary might prevent the employee from being able to maintain the security or integrity of the infrastructure.

Duties:

• Implements IT strategies/systems to support the department's activities and objectives; manages and oversees the installation/configuration, operation, and maintenance of server, software, network systems, and other hardware.
• Coordinates with internal and external users to identify and address technology needs, ensuring effective utilization of IT resources.
• Monitors and analyzes system performance, identifying and resolving issues and optimizing IT infrastructure.
• Enforces IT security policies, procedures, and protocols to safeguard sensitive data and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Coordinates IT projects, including planning, resource allocation, and coordination of tasks to meet project goals and timelines.
• Conducts regular system audits to assess performance, identify vulnerabilities, and implement appropriate security measures.
• Collaborates with internal users, external vendors, and contractors to procure and implement IT solutions.
• Stays up to date on emerging technologies and industry trends, making recommendations for their adoption to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Provides evening and after-hours support for planned and unplanned maintenance events and other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

1. Associate's degree in Information Technology, Business, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
2. One year of hands-on experience and best practices experience with organizational systems, Networking, and/or Infrastructure.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Business, or a related field.
2. Three years of experience as an in-field technician with hands-on experience in the troubleshooting, repair, and installation of Public Safety Technology and Information Technology Systems in a higher education environment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to interact professionally with a variety of individuals using excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrate strong requirements gathering, analytical, and time management skills.
• Excellent written communication, analytical, interpersonal, and organizational skills with the ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
• Skilled in Office suite and other computing applications, servers, and networking systems.
• Skilled in activities to manage and oversee the installation, configuration, operation, and maintenance of hardware, software, and network systems.
• Skilled in basic systems: AD, server OS, and network switch/firewall management.
• Good problem-solving, collaboration, and planning skills. Strong team player with the ability to meet project plans and goals. Ability to work without supervision on daily tasks and projects.
• Ability to coordinate implementations with end-users from various areas.
• Ability to work within IT and PD environments to solve daily operations and long-term goals.
• Knowledge of Police Department regulations and CJIS standards.

All positions at the University of Houston System are security-sensitive and will require a motor vehicle and criminal history check.

The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions. Everyone is encouraged to apply.