What are the responsibilities and job description for the DEPUTY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR/CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY OFFICER (AT-WILL) position at City of Torrance?
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE APPLICANTS TO READ THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
IN ITS ENTIRETY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION.
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The City of Torrance recognizes the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. If you are a person who wants to make a difference, give back to your community, and be a voice for change, apply to the City of Torrance.
The City of Torrance invites your interest in the position of Deputy Information Technology Director/Chief Information Security Officer.
The City
Torrance California, the eighth largest city in Los Angeles County, is a vibrant coastal city situated in the South Bay region of Southern California. With nearly 150,000 residents and a peak daytime population that grows to 250,000 or more, Torrance spans an area of almost 22 square miles, including a picturesque mile of beach. Known for its diverse culture and strong sense of community, the city offers a blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, boasting a rich history, an array of parks, excellent schools, and a thriving business sector. The City of Torrance is governed by the Council-Manager form of government with an elected Mayor and six Council Members who appoint a City Manager, a City Attorney, and members of 14 advisory commissions, boards, and council. The Executive team works under the direction of the City Manager based on merit principles. Torrance is a full-service city with an annual operating budget of $525.4 million, capital improvement plan of 182.1 million and a staff of over 1,600 organized in 14 departments.
Torrance features world-class medical and research facilities, vibrant shopping, four-star dining, as well as an intricate mix of burgeoning industrial and commercial facilities. Torrance is one of the few cities in the South Bay to feature its own municipal airport and support facilities. It is also considered to be a "headquarters" city, with major corporations such as Sunrider International, Alpinestars USA, Health-Ade Kombucha, Pelican Products, L3 Harris Technologies, RapiScan Systems, American Honda Motor Company, and Robinson Helicopter Company all calling Torrance home
The Department
The Information Technology Department is responsible for the administration of the City's information and communications systems and infrastructure. Services include the planning, procurement, delivery, maintenance and training which support the business functions of City departments through technology. The Information Technology department's responsibilities include: Computer hardware systems, Data and telecomm infrastructure, Data management, Information security, Radio and wireless communications, Software and applications, and Telephone and voice systems.
The Position
The City of Torrance is seeking an innovative and experienced leader for the position of Deputy Information Technology Director/Chief Information Security Officer. The Deputy IT Director will assist in planning, organizing, and directing the functions of the IT Department, with primary responsibility for cybersecurity, risk management, and emerging technology initiatives, including artificial intelligence (AI), and public safety technology systems. This position will develop, implement, and manage the City’s enterprise cybersecurity program, including policies, standards, risk assessments, and incident response capabilities, and serve as the City’s Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), responsible for safeguarding City systems, data, and infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities:
Executive Leadership: Provide high-level support in planning, organizing, and directing Information Technology Department operations, including cybersecurity, telecommunications, and public safety systems; serve as the City’s Chief Information Security Officer, leading enterprise-wide efforts to safeguard systems, data, and infrastructure.
Cybersecurity Program Management: Develop and oversee a comprehensive cybersecurity program, including policies, risk assessments, incident response, and regulatory compliance.
Governance & Risk Management: Lead cybersecurity governance and risk strategies aligned with industry frameworks (e.g., NIST) and City priorities.
Emerging Technology & Innovation: Drive the strategic and responsible adoption of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI).
Security Operations: Oversee threat detection, vulnerability management, and incident response to maintain a strong and resilient security posture.
Public Safety Technology Collaboration: Partner with public safety and City departments to implement advanced technology solutions, including surveillance systems, in compliance with privacy and legal standards.
Monthly Salary Range
$15,015 (Minimum) - $18,018 (Reference) - $20,721 (Maximum)
License and/or Certificate
Ideal Candidate
Successful candidates will possess the following:
- Demonstrated ability to think long-term, align technology initiatives with organizational goals, and lead complex, cross-departmental programs;
- Strong understanding of enterprise cybersecurity principles, risk management practices, and the ability to proactively identify and mitigate threats;
- Proven capacity to make sound, timely decisions, manage competing priorities, and ensure continuity of operations in a dynamic environment;
- Experience leading and developing high-performing teams, fostering accountability, and promoting a collaborative, service-oriented culture;
- Ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences and build strong partnerships across departments and external stakeholders;
- Previous experience working in a municipal, government, or large enterprise environment; and
- Familiarity with emerging technologies and trends in IT management.
Only those candidates who best meet the City and Department's needs will be invited to participate in the examination process, which will consist of the following components:
Oral Interview: Weighted 100% (Tentatively scheduled on May 13, 2026.)
The City of Torrance is a welcoming and culturally-rich community. As a pillar of public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a talented workforce where people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, religions, and lifestyles are valued. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and contribute towards making a positive impact.
The City is an equal opportunity employer and works towards building collaborative teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. Come join us to help cultivate a workplace that welcomes and celebrates the diversity of our employees!
Salary : $180,180 - $248,652