ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, NETWORK AND SYSTEMS
Ithaca College

Job Summary:  The Associate Director for Network and Systems will guide the day-to-day direction, design, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of Ithaca College's IT infrastructure. This role will focus on the critical areas of network architecture, server management, data center operations, telecommunications, fiber optic and cabling plant, and cloud computing resources, ensuring that our systems meet both current and future needs. This position leads both the network and systems teams.   Job Responsibilities:  

1. Leadership and Management: Day-to-day management of systems administrators, and network engineers/technicians. Set expectations with direct reports, conduct performance reviews, manage coverage, manage budgets, and recruit, train, and motivate staff. Oversee the planning, implementation, and tracking of projects, particularly focusing on systems, networking, and telecommunications within the IT and Analytics division. 
2. Technical Leadership and Network Expertise: Provide technical guidance in systems, network engineering, and telecommunications. Serve as a subject matter expert where applicable but also utilize expertise and knowledge to lead your team. Ensure the team possesses the necessary skills to meet the strategic and operational goals. 
3. Network Design and Telecommunications Infrastructure Design, Integration, and Testing: Participate in the design, development, integration, testing, and optimization of system, network, and telecommunications infrastructure. Ensure these elements meet business and technical requirements, emphasizing reliability, quality, security, and performance. Ensure the team implements upgrades and patches as needed. 
4. Problem Resolution and Maintenance: Work with your team to identify, diagnose, and resolve issues across systems, networks, and telecommunications, offering expert analysis and solutions for complex problems. Monitor and optimize performance to support current and future operational needs. Participate in an on-call rotation with other IT managers and respond to off-hours issues during your rotation. 
5. Monitoring and Optimization of Network and Systems: Monitor, maintain, and optimize system and network performance within the IT and Analytics department, implementing necessary upgrades and patches. 
6. Documentation and Reporting: Prepare and maintain documentation for system and network architectures, processes, and workflows specific to the IT and Analytics department. Report on project status and system performance.  
7. Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate with other departments and external vendors, effectively communicating technical information to non-technical stakeholders within the IT and Analytics context.  
8. Compliance and Security in Systems and Networks: Ensure that systems and networks comply with relevant regulations and maintain high standards of data security and privacy.  
9. Strategic Implementation Support: Assist in the strategic plan for network, systems, and telecommunications architecture, ensuring alignment with the college's goals and objectives. 
10. Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery: Develop, maintain, and test IT disaster recovery plans and business continuity strategies. Assist in incident response efforts to minimize downtime and maintain operational excellence during outages. 
11. Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a key liaison between the IT department and other divisions within the college, ensuring IT initiatives effectively support departmental and institutional objectives.    

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. Alternatively, candidates with a significant amount of professional experience and/or relevant certifications will also be considered.  
• Proven experience in network engineering.  
• Strong leadership and management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of network engineering principles and technologies.  
• Familiarity with various operating systems, databases, cloud technologies, and network protocols.  
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.  
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities.  
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., MCSE, CCNP, CCNA) are highly valued.  

• Demonstrated leadership and decision-making skills.  
• Strong analytical and organizational abilities.  
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.  
• Commitment to continuous learning and adapting to new challenges and technologies.  
• Team-oriented mindset with a collaborative approach, especially within an IT and Analytics setting.  

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants must apply online and attach a resume, cover letter, and list of three professional references. Questions about online applications should be directed to the Office of Human Resources at (607) 274-8000 or humanresources@ithaca.edu 

Ithaca College is committed to building a diverse academic community and encourages members of underrepresented groups to apply. Experience that contributes to the diversity of the college is appreciated.

Visa sponsorship is not provided for this position.

Hiring Range:

$95,000 to $105,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.  We pride ourselves on providing our benefit-eligible employees with comprehensive benefits, including work/life balance, generous paid time off policies, career-enhancing trainings, educational benefits, and opportunities to give back to the community. Beyond benefits, you'll enjoy the kind of uniquely rewarding work environment that can only be found in a vibrant college community.  For an overview of our benefit offerings, please visit https://www.ithaca.edu/human-resources/employee-benefits-wellness  
 

Employment is contingent upon completion of a successful background check.