What are the responsibilities and job description for the Information Technology Director position at City of Cocoa?
Job Summary
Under the administrative direction of the City Manager, the Information Technology Director provides executive leadership and strategic oversight for all City information technology operations, cybersecurity, telecommunications, and digital innovation initiatives. The Director is responsible for developing and implementing technology strategies that enhance the efficiency, security, and accessibility of City services. This position ensures that technology investments align with the City’s organizational goals, priorities, and service delivery standards. The Information Technology Director manages citywide infrastructure, enterprise systems, and data management programs; leads a team of IT professionals; and serves as the City’s principal advisor on technology-related policy and operations.
Essential Job Functions
Education and Experience:
Under the administrative direction of the City Manager, the Information Technology Director provides executive leadership and strategic oversight for all City information technology operations, cybersecurity, telecommunications, and digital innovation initiatives. The Director is responsible for developing and implementing technology strategies that enhance the efficiency, security, and accessibility of City services. This position ensures that technology investments align with the City’s organizational goals, priorities, and service delivery standards. The Information Technology Director manages citywide infrastructure, enterprise systems, and data management programs; leads a team of IT professionals; and serves as the City’s principal advisor on technology-related policy and operations.
Essential Job Functions
- Provides strategic and operational leadership for the City’s Information Technology Department, including infrastructure, network systems, cybersecurity, telecommunications, enterprise software, and user support.
- Develops and implements the City’s long-term technology strategy and goals in alignment with City priorities and operational needs.
- Oversees the planning, development, and maintenance of technology systems to ensure data integrity, system reliability, and information security.
- Administers the City’s cybersecurity framework and ensures compliance with federal and state mandates, including those under Chapter 282, Florida Statutes.
- Prepares and manages the department’s annual operating and capital budgets, technology projects, and procurement plans.
- Directs the design and implementation of business continuity, backup, and disaster recovery systems.
- Establishes policies and procedures for technology governance, data security, and acceptable system use across all departments.
- Leads the evaluation and acquisition of hardware, software, and technology services to support efficient City operations.
- Negotiates and manages contracts with vendors, service providers, and consultants.
- Advises the City Manager and Department Directors on technology initiatives, innovations, and resource requirements.
- Coordinates with all City departments to assess technology needs, identify efficiencies, and implement digital solutions that improve service delivery.
- Promotes innovation and continuous improvement through digital transformation and smart-city technologies.
- Supervises, trains, and evaluates IT staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and customer service.
- Maintains current knowledge of emerging technologies, best practices, and legal requirements affecting municipal IT operations.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
- Comprehensive knowledge of principles and practices of information systems management, networking, telecommunications, and cybersecurity.
- Strong knowledge of project management, budgeting, procurement, and contract administration in a public-sector environment.
- Knowledge of laws and regulations governing data security, records retention, and Florida public records.
- Skill in leading complex, multi-departmental technology initiatives and managing technical staff and contractors.
- Skill in diagnosing complex technical issues and implementing efficient, secure solutions.
- Ability to plan, organize, and execute strategic technology initiatives that support organizational effectiveness.
- Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences, including elected officials and the public.
- Ability to build partnerships across departments and promote a culture of innovation, accountability, and service excellence.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing organizational needs.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or a closely related field.
- Master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in information technology management, including at least three (3) years in a senior supervisory or administrative capacity.
- Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.
- Must possess or obtain a valid Florida Driver’s License within 45 days of employment.
- Must pass an FDLE background check.
- Professional certifications such as CIO, PMP, CISSP, or ITIL are desirable.
- The work is primarily sedentary, requiring exertion of up to 30 pounds of force occasionally and up to 10 pounds frequently.
- Requires sufficient mobility to work in an office setting, operate standard office equipment, and attend meetings at various City facilities.