Technology Specialist II

Primary Purpose

To support the vision, mission, and strategic priorities of ESC Region 12. The Technology Specialist II is responsible for administering, securing, and optimizing enterprise network systems for ESC Region 12 and school districts throughout the region. Building upon the foundational support provided by Technology Specialist I staff, this role manages critical technology services, including Active Directory, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, firewalls, and complex LAN/WAN/WLAN environments. The Technology Specialist II provides advanced technical expertise, leads infrastructure projects, and ensures the reliability, performance, and security of systems that support educational and operational excellence across Region 12.

Qualifications

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor''s preferred or Associate's degree required with a minimum of three years of experience
• Two Industry Level Certifications preferred (A+, Network+, Security+, etc.)

Special Knowledge/Skills

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience administering and supporting complex enterprise networking environments, including LAN, WAN, WLAN, VPN, and network security infrastructure.
• Demonstrated expertise in the configuration, administration, and maintenance of enterprise-grade firewalls, web content filtering solutions, cybersecurity tools, and data privacy platforms. Experience with pfSense, Cisco Meraki, UniFi, Lightspeed, Securly, Linewize, or similar platforms is preferred.
• Extensive experience managing and supporting Google Workspace for Education, Microsoft 365, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and related identity and cloud-based services.
• Strong working knowledge of Windows and Linux server environments, network architecture, telecommunications concepts, virtualization technologies (Hyper-V, ESX, Nutanix, etc), and systems administration best practices.
• Experience configuring, managing, and troubleshooting enterprise networking equipment, including Cisco Meraki, UniFi, Cisco, or equivalent routers, switches, wireless access points, and security appliances.
• Working knowledge of PowerShell, Python, Visual Basic, or similar scripting and automation technologies used to improve operational efficiency, reporting, and systems management.
• Proficiency with help desk, ticketing, inventory management, and IT service management (ITSM) systems, along with advanced analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and customer service skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with technical and non-technical stakeholders. Experience supporting technology operations in a K-12 educational environment is preferred.
• Ability to use software for data analysis and spreadsheets to drive Quality Management System (QMS) initiatives and maintain meticulous system records.

General Responsibilities

• Administer, maintain, and support enterprise network infrastructure to ensure the reliability, performance, and security of technology services for ESC Region 12 and regional school districts.
• Manage core infrastructure systems and services, including identity management, directory services, email platforms, server environments, and related technologies.
• Implement and maintain cybersecurity controls and data privacy practices in accordance with organizational policies, industry standards, and applicable regulations.
• Provide advanced technical support and troubleshooting for complex infrastructure, systems, and end-user issues through remote, onsite, and telephone support.
• Perform lifecycle management, maintenance, and optimization of network, server, and endpoint hardware and software.
• Lead and coordinate technology projects, including planning, deployment, integration, testing, documentation, and ongoing support of new systems and services.
• Maintain accurate technology inventories, asset records, system configurations, and support documentation to ensure operational efficiency and accountability.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, procedures, and knowledge resources that support business continuity and effective service delivery.
• Collaborate with district personnel, vendors, and internal stakeholders to evaluate needs, recommend solutions, and support strategic technology initiatives.
• Participate in ongoing professional development to maintain current knowledge of emerging technologies, cybersecurity trends, and industry best practices.
• A collaborative team player committed to a positive workplace culture and continuous improvement through Quality Management System (QMS) initiatives.

Supervisory Responsibilities

No supervisory responsibilities

The applicant needs to possess these core values through words and actions to build positive, long-term relationships with customers by demonstrating:

• Professionalism while demonstrating integrity, respect for others, expertise, and credibility at all times
• Quality in delivering what I promise and helping create superior programs and services that add value beyond what is expected
• Teamwork by working cooperatively with others to promote a positive and fun work environment
• Adaptability by being flexible, attentive to change, and ready to move quickly and decisively in response to the needs of customers
• Innovation by contributing to the implementation of new or significantly improved services and delivery methods
• Superior Service by providing personable, direct attention that delivers customer satisfaction beyond what is expected

Security Requirements

All positions at ESC 12 are defined as security-sensitive. Security-sensitive positions are those which require employees to be entrusted with certain types of data, whether electronic or in paper form. Those data elements, as defined by the ESC 12 Data Classification and Handling Policy may include, but not limited to:

• Sensitive Personal Information (SPI)
• Personally, Identifiable Information (PII)
• Protected Health Information (PHI)
• Family Educational Records (FERPA Data)
• Federal Tax Information (FTI)

All employees must adhere to all security-related policies, standards, and procedures. This includes actively safeguarding data and immediately reporting any suspected loss or theft.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors

Travel

• Travel within the region, state, and nation when appropriate

Tools/Equipment Used

• Standard office equipment, including a personal computer and peripherals

Posture

• Prolonged sitting, occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion

• Repetitive hand motions, including frequent keyboarding and use of a mouse; occasional reaching

Lifting

• Occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds)

Environment

• May work prolonged or irregular hours, frequent regional travel, occasional statewide travel, and out-of-state travel

Mental Demands

• Manage multiple tasks and work cooperatively with others,
• Maintain a calm attitude in demanding situations,
• Make changes and adapt to various responsibilities on an ongoing basis, and
• Work with frequent interruptions, tight deadlines, and limited office space.

Benefit Information

• ESC Region 12 provides a monetary contribution up to $575 per month to use for employee/family healthcare and supplemental benefits.
• Employee earns state personal, sick, and vacation leave.
• All employees contribute to both: Teachers Retirement System (TRS) and the Social Security retirement programs