Network Operations Bureau Chief

We invite you to consider joining us at the State of Montana Department of Administration

As a customer service focused organization, we provide centralized services, specialized support, and practical solutions to state agencies, boards, and commissions, as well as local governments across Montana. Our vision is to transform how government services are delivered and accessed, serving state government with effective, efficient, and customer‑driven solutions that benefit all Montanans.

The State Information Technology Services Division's (SITSD) vision is to provide exceptional experiences through technology provided by empowered people, secure interactions, and valued services to support the needs of the state and citizens of Montana. We offer an innovative and collaborative work environment where employees are valued and supported. In addition, our employees have the opportunity to be involved in some of the most exciting and innovative IT projects and initiatives in development within Montana state government.

What is this career opportunity?

The Network Operations Bureau Chief provides leadership and strategic direction for the organization's Network Operations and Support, including Network Architecture and Engineering teams. This role is responsible for ensuring the high availability, integrity, and scalability of enterprise networks and systems. The ideal candidate balances technical foresight with operational excellence, driving daily workflows, financial stewardship, cross-functional project coordination, and comprehensive personnel management. Furthermore, the Bureau Chief will champion a forward-thinking culture, proactively identifying opportunities to cultivate and adopt artificial intelligence and advanced automation to drive efficiency and streamline operations.

What are we looking for?

The successful candidate should be able to demonstrate the following qualifying skills:

• Comprehensive knowledge of large-scale, mission-critical network infrastructures (LAN/WAN, SD-WAN, cloud networking, hybrid architectures, routing protocols, and data center networking).
• Collaborate cross-functionally with security teams to align network operations with risk mitigation strategies and drive shared technical initiatives
• Familiarity with government and operational expenditure planning, technology lifecycle management, vendor contract negotiations, and enterprise procurement strategies.
• Ability to align technical roadmaps with organizational goals, managing complex, multi-departmental projects from conception to delivery.
• Demonstrated skill in leading diverse teams, mentoring technical talent, and fostering a collaborative, forward-thinking culture.
• Ability to translate complex network visibility, performance metrics, and financial reports into actionable strategic insights for executive leadership.
• Aptitude for bridging the gap between deep technical teams and non-technical executive stakeholders, boards, or external partners.
• Resilience and composure when managing enterprise-wide network outages, shifting regulatory landscapes, or evolving business priorities.
• Ability to foster trusted relationships and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders at all organizational levels

If you have a combination of the skills outlined above and a desire to serve Montanans, we encourage you to apply.

Does this sound like you? Please tell us how and why by submitting your resume and cover letter. In your cover letter, please explain why you want to join our team to work in this position. (Please Note: You do not need to complete the "work experience" or the "education & certifications" portion of the application process in our recruiting system. You only need to upload the requested documentation.)

What can you expect from us in return for your work with our agency?

Ø Look here to see the additional benefits! They include:

o Work/life Balance

o Health Coverage

o Retirement plans

o Paid Vacation and Sick Leave and Holidays

o And more…

Ø Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) - Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the PSLF. Look here to learn more and see if you may qualify!

Other important information to be aware of.

• This position requires successful completion of a criminal background check.
• Only online applications are accepted. By applying online, you are able to receive updates and monitor the status of your application.
• In this position you will be afforded the opportunity to telework, however there will be required weekly in office day(s) in Helena. Specific conditions will be outlined as part of the job offer and must adhere to state policy.
• This agency participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here.