Job Description
The Chief Information Officer plans, manages, and participates in the daily operations of the City’s Information Technology Department to ensure secure, reliable, and efficient operation of computer, network, data, and voice/telecommunications systems. The City operates across multiple facilities and off-site locations, requiring integrated, responsive technology services to support municipal operations and public service delivery.
The Chief Information Officer supervises departmental staff and maintains hands-on knowledge of current and emerging technologies, including networks, servers, cloud-based services, systems administration, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, web and digital services, data management, program/project management, and analytics. The Chief Information Officer both leads and directly supports technology initiatives and operational needs across City departments.
The position reports to the Mayor and may be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by Council. The Chief Information Officer must establish and maintain effective, collaborative, and professional working relationships with elected officials, department directors, City employees, vendors, and external partners. This position may be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by Council.
The work environment is primarily a departmental office setting, with a generally moderate noise level.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
- Department Leadership and Administration
- Plan, organize, direct, and manage the operations of the Information Technology Department.
- Supervise, train, evaluate, and discipline department employees in accordance with City policies and procedures.
- Establish work priorities, assign workloads, and ensure departmental goals and performance expectations are met.
- Maintain effective, collaborative relationships with elected officials, department directors, City employees, vendors, consultants, and the public.
- Technology Operations and Infrastructure Management
- Oversee the planning, implementation, operation, maintenance, and security of:
- Networks, servers, and cloud infrastructure systems
- Desktop, laptop, and mobile computing, smart devices
- Software applications and enterprise systems
- VoIP PBX and telephone infrastructure
- Fire alarm and security systems
- Data transmission networks and off-site facility technology
- Monitor equipment and system performance; plan and budget for upgrades, maintenance, and replacements.
- Strategic Planning and Policy Development
- Develop and recommend short- and long-term technology goals, objectives, policies, and procedures aligned with the City’s mission and strategic plan.
- Evaluate emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.
- Review and ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and standards related to information technology and telecommunications.
- Cybersecurity, Systems Administration, and Data Management
- Oversee and participate in cybersecurity measures, including system access, virus and malware protection, and user awareness training.
- Perform or oversee systems administration, database management, and system updates/upgrades.
- Maintain current knowledge of cybersecurity threats and municipal IT practices.
- Budget, Procurement, Contract, and Asset Management
- Prepare, administer, and monitor the IT Department’s operating and capital budgets.
- Ensure expenditures remain within approved appropriations and comply with City financial policies.
- Oversee procurement of hardware, software, and data communications systems.
- Participate in vendor negotiations; develop and maintain service agreements and contracts.
- Project Management and Departmental Support
- Serve as project manager for major IT initiatives, system implementations, and upgrades.
- Work with department directors to assess technology needs and requirements, evaluate alternatives, and recommend solutions.
- Provide technical guidance, support, and troubleshooting to City staff for hardware and software issues.
- Other Duties
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
- Nothing in this classification restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.
Acceptable Experience, Training, Licenses And/Or Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a closely related field required, or four (4) years of full-time related work/military experience (eight (8) years if part-time) may substitute.
- Master’s degree in information systems, public administration, or a related field preferred.
- Eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in IT operations or systems administration required.
- Five (5) or more years of supervisory or management experience in IT preferred.
An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the essential functions of the position may be considered.
Classification Requirements
The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required for an individual to satisfactorily perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be successful in the position.
Knowledge Of
- Municipal computer, information technology, and telecommunications systems.
- Departmental IT needs and public service operations.
- Employee supervision, training, evaluation, and discipline.
- Budget preparation, administration, and financial management.
- Methods for installing, maintaining, and upgrading IT systems, hardware, and software.
- Systems administration, patching, lifecycle management, and cybersecurity best practices.
- Troubleshooting hardware, software, and network issues.
- Customer service in a public-sector environment.
- Federal OSHA regulations and City workplace safety policies.
- Operation of personal computers, server/mainframe environments, and IT applications.
Skill And Ability To
- Direct IT operations and departmental staff effectively.
- Hire, train, supervise, evaluate, and discipline employees, including terminations.
- Prepare and manage departmental budgets and expenditures.
- Analyze technical information and communicate complex concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
- Assess departmental technology requirements and implement solutions.
- Install, configure, maintain, and upgrade IT systems, networks, and devices.
- Maintain cybersecurity, virus/malware protection, and system security.
- Provide direct technical support to City employees.
- Maintain records and documentation of IT systems, upgrades, and maintenance.
- Communicate effectively in English, verbally and in writing, at a level necessary for efficient job performance.
- Perform all duties safely and in compliance with City policies and regulations.
Physical Requirements
While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard or type, reach with hands and arms. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the public is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Benefits
The City of Pocatello offers a generous benefits package to full-time employees:
- Medical
- Prescription
- Dental
- Vision
- Life Insurance
- PERSI Retirement
- PERSI Choice 401(k)
- 457 Retirement Planning
- HRA VEBA Contributions
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Medical
- Dependent Care
- Vacation Time
- Sick Time
- 11 Paid Holidays
- Education Assistance
- Employee Wellness Program
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligible Employer
Company Description
Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Pocatello offers a perfect blend of work and play. With a semi-arid climate, you can experience the best of all four seasons, from hiking and skiing to fishing and camping. Plus, you're just a short drive away from Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Lava Hot Springs, and other must-visit destinations.
All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check.
