Information Systems Specialist (353) at Lutheran Services Florida

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) envisions a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant.

LSF is looking for a talented ­­­­­­­­­­­­Information Systems Specialist who wants to make an impact in the lives of others.

Purpose and Impact:

The ­­­­­­­­­­­­Information Systems Specialist provides desktop support and technology systems services in all areas of the Head Start/Early Head Start (HS/EHS) Program. Responsible for the operations of Information Technology (IT) services and for supporting and advising staff in related needs. Coordinates efforts with Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) Senior Network Administrator, and Head Start/Early Head Start (HS/EHS) Director of Program Operations who will meet Quarterly or as needed to review and establish the program performance expectations and complete the annual performance evaluation jointly.

Essential Functions: 

• Responsible for overall operations of the Information Technology (IT) services.
• Creates and maintains internal procedures covering all aspects of computer and IT operations.
• Reviews and advises on proposed projects with management team and develops schedules and priorities for accomplishing tasks.
• Maintains and ensures adherence to computer security policies that safeguard access to computer data and equipment.
• Develops and maintains a long-term plan for meeting the information technology processing requirements of HS/EHS.
• Directs the preparation and maintenance of system reports.
• Prepares periodic reports for management as required.
• Provides prompt and courteous resolution to those requesting computer services.
• Provides indirect supervision of computer users through observation and discussion.
• Coordinates vendor repairs and maintenance of program systems.
• Provides audio visual support for program needs.
• Administers phone system extensions.
• Establishes priorities for system modifications and requests in coordination with LSF IT staff.
• Works with LSF IT (approval) to review service, supply and equipment vendors to secure the lowest possible pricing coordinating purchase with LSF IT staff. 
• Assists in soliciting information about new technology and/or requests bids as directed.
• As per LSF policy all IT related purchases must be approved by the SR Director IT or Manager IT prior to acquisition and confirmation of being compatible within the LSF Network.
• Evaluates equipment and makes purchasing recommendations for equipment, hardware and software acquisitions.
• Maintains strict confidentiality with respect to HS/EHS children, families and staff in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Attends all workshops and meetings as deemed necessary by the LSF Senior Network Administrator and HS/EHS Operations Manager.
• Attends all required staff meetings and activities.  
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Other Functions:

Note: The duties above are illustrative and not exhaustive. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. Depending on assigned area of responsibility, incumbents in the position may perform some or all of the activities described above. Participates in the HS/EHS Quality Assurance efforts.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to lift at least 45 pounds.  Must be able to bend, kneel, stretch, sit and stand to effectively install equipment.  Must be able to sit for long periods of time.  Must be able to use keyboard and view images on monitor for long periods of time.  Reasonable accommodation may be made for otherwise qualified persons with disabilities.

Education: 

Associate degree in computer science or related field.  Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Experience: Three years of directly related experience in computer hardware, computer systems, network administration or relevant work related to information technology.  

Bilingual preferred: English/Spanish or English and other languages present in the local area.

Also required: Successful completion of a Level II background screening, local criminal record check and drug screening prior to hiring.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of principles of computer programming, data base design, software design and life cycles, operating systems, hardware architectures, maintenance, transaction processing, technical and user documentation standards, performance monitoring, capacity planning, data communications, networks and other aspects of computer operations.
• Skills in business mathematics and basic algebra coupled with the ability to produce and interpret graphs, charts, spreadsheets and other mathematical reports, as well as calculate figures such as discounts, percentages and overtime.
• Ability to effectively communicate ideas and instructions verbally and in writing.
• Ability to read, analyze and interpret common technical journals and instructional manuals.
• Ability to direct the work of others and to provide training and technical assistance to individuals at various skill and comfort levels.
• Ability to teach others using theories of adult learning to maximize outcomes.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to summarize conclusions and instructions, make recommendations and develop implementation strategies.
• Exceptional organization skills and attention to detail are required and the candidate must be able to meet designated deadlines.

Other:

Must demonstrate sensitivity to our service population’s cultural and socioeconomic characteristics and needs.

Principal Accountabilities:

• Team player with co-workers and central service office staff. 
• Cost effective program operations.
• Adherence to agency policies and management practices. 
• Effective staff management and leadership.

Why work for LSF?

LSF offers 60 programs across the state of Florida serving a wide range of populations in need. Mission Driven staff members become part of the LSF community while transforming the lives of those in need. Our staff additionally find growth opportunities as they explore areas of interest within the organization.  

Amazing benefits package including:

• Medical, Dental and Vision
• Teledoc (24/7 online access to Doctors)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employer paid life insurance (1X salary)
• 13 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday
• Generous PTO policy (starting at 16 working days a year)
• Note: Head Start employees paid time off and holiday schedule may differ
• 403(b) Retirement plan with 3% discretionary employer match OR 3% student loan repayment reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement

Lutheran Services Florida embraces diversity, equity and inclusion in all business practices. LSF is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.