Summary:

 

The Director, Technology (IT/OT) is responsible for bridging the gap between Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) to ensure seamless integration and optimization of technology systems across the organization. This role involves overseeing the strategic planning, implementation, and management of both IT and OT infrastructure, including network systems, software applications, and industrial control systems. The IT/OT Director works closely with cross-functional teams to align technology strategies with business objectives, manage budgets, ensure system security and reliability, and drive innovation. Strong leadership, technical expertise, and strategic vision are essential to integrate and streamline IT and OT processes, enhancing overall operational efficiency and performance.

 

Objectives:

 

• To develop and direct the Cooperative’s technology activities.

 

• To actively participate as a member of the management team where decisions and plans are developed to ensure the Cooperative’s strategies, goals, and objectives are accomplished.

 

• To develop, implement, and maintain Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) policies and procedures including those for infrastructure, cyber and information security, disaster recovery, standards, and purchasing.

 

• To ensure the Cooperative is provided with proper expertise in the areas of IT and OT operations, reliability, and security.

 

• To lead the Technology Team in developing and defining a long-range technology plan for the Cooperative which aligns the Cooperative’s business drivers and critical success factors with the Cooperative’s technology decisions.

 

Reporting Relationships:

 

• Reports to:                 Chief Operating Officer

 

• Supervises: Supervisor (IT/OT), Systems Administrator (IT/OT), IT/OT Specialist

 

• Directs:                        Various outside vendors associated with IT and OT projects

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

 

• Develop and implement a plan that outlines and maximizes the utilization of the Cooperative’s existing technologies, while integrating emerging technologies for improved results and efficiencies. Evaluate new technologies for their potential value to the Cooperative.

 

• Manage the system administration for the Cooperative’s network and telecommunications infrastructure (LAN/WAN, routers, servers, firewalls, switches, telephones, security devices, fiber optic technologies, etc.)

 

• Develop and implement a strategic communication infrastructure plan which includes short- and long-term strategy that covers procurement, design and deployment of technologies. The strategy will also cover private and leased fiber backbone networks, fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) networks, licensed and unlicensed microwave networks, wireless data networks, land mobile radio systems, RF channels and FCC spectrum licensing.

 

• Ensure the integrity of the Cooperative’s data and network infrastructure, including but not limited to cyber and information security, vulnerability management, intrusion detection, and incident response.

 

• Identify and respond to possible indicators of compromise on the Cooperative’s network. A system will be required that monitors, logs and tracks the issues. Management will be informed of emerging trends.

 

• Implement and maintain the firewall, Anti-Spam, Anti-Virus, Anti-Malware solutions and be proactive with prevention and thorough with remediation.

 

• Perform the IT audit function, which means to plan, coordinate, schedule, conduct and/or lead audits of internal controls, compliance monitoring and provide consulting support to all areas of the Cooperative to ensure cyber security risks are mitigated and standard operating procedures are followed.

 

• Develop, implement, and direct security access, disaster recovery and business continuity plans for the Cooperative’s IT functions to support the availability of critical operating systems and infrastructures within assigned area of responsibility.

 

• Conduct internal controls testing and validation of software to ensure that software changes are defect-free and comply with prescribed protocols.

 

• Provide technical assistance, help-desk support, and training related to IT for end user needs. Develop training and instructions for users of computer applications and systems.

 

• Provide end user computer and cell phone staging and deployment processes.

 

• Devise and establish IT policies and procedures to meet the requirements of all departments and support the implementation of Cooperative strategies.

 

• Prepare annual IT expense and capital budgets and ensure operation within budgetary guidelines.

 

• Negotiate and administer IT vendor and consultant contracts and service agreements.

 

• Oversee troubleshooting, system maintenance, support, network infrastructure integration, and security of Cooperative OT systems as needed.

 

• Support the IEC 60870-6 Inter-Control Center Communications Protocol (ICCP) for A & N Electric Cooperative and ODEC.

 

• Assist with the administration, planning and alterations of the SCADA, AMI and communication systems. This will require software patches for the supporting equipment to be evaluated for IT compliance.

 

• Oversee Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and fiber to the premise (FTTP) projects.

 

• Assist or provide backup support to other departmental units as needed.

 

• Supervise and manage direct-report employees to include developing adequate job descriptions, appraisals, and professional development and training plans, recommending wage adjustments and participating in the hiring and termination processes.

 

• Responsible for making certain direct-report employees are fully knowledgeable of A & N Electric Cooperative’s safety rules and strongly encourage compliance. In addition, takes an active role to enforce A & N Electric Cooperative’s safety rules, safety policies, and safety procedures.

 

• Perform any other duties as assigned.

 

Relationships:

 

Establishes and maintains the following contacts and relationships for the purpose of coordination and communication:

 

Internal

 

• Support and assist all departments concerning technology.

 

External

 

• Develop and promote professional relationships with IT and OT vendors and peers.

Education:                         

 

Four (4) year degree in computer science/computer information systems required.  Must complete at least one (1) professional development activity annually.

 

The following certifications are a plus: Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Risk & Information Systems Control (CRISC), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Security Professional (CISP) and/or Project Management Professional (PMP).

 

 

Experience:

 

Ten (10) years of progressively responsible IT experience, including supervisory responsibility and project management. 

 

Security Patch Management, Configuration Management, Firewall Management, Disaster Recovery, Incident Management, and Information Management is desired.

 

Job Knowledge:

 

In-depth knowledge of a broad range of computing technologies and proficiency in applying technology solutions required. Must have strong technical knowledge of current network hardware, protocols, standards, and security.  Must have a working knowledge of telecommunications systems.  In addition, the incumbent must have an understanding of the Cooperative’s IT and telecommunications systems as they relate to all departments.

 

Abilities and Skills:

 

Must be able to provide leadership and supervision to departmental staff. Must have the ability to evaluate and implement technology procedures and equipment for maximum efficiency, effectiveness, and security. Must be able to interact with industry peers on technology matters to explore new ways to bring value to the Cooperative.  Proficiency in written and oral communications required.

 

Working Conditions:

 

Most of the work is performed in the A & N Electric Cooperative office, with occasional field trips required.  Attendance of seminars, conferences and training sessions several times a year may be required. Overnight travel required on occasion.  Must work beyond normal hours on a regular basis as required for completion of duties. Subject to call at any time for emergencies.

 

The employee must occasionally lift to 50 pounds unassisted and assist in moving objects in excess of 50 pounds.

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