IT Specialist

Description

 Summary

The IT Specialist supports the organization’s IT infrastructure, production operations, and end users by maintaining, monitoring, troubleshooting, and securing various IT systems, networks, hardware, software, and business applications. This role is responsible for supporting operational continuity, data integrity, cybersecurity initiatives, and technology solutions that align with business operations and organizational goals. The IT Specialist ensures compliance with applicable federal, state, and local cybersecurity, data privacy, and information security requirements while maintaining a high level of professionalism, customer service, confidentiality, and technical support

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Respond to telephone calls, emails, help desk tickets, and in-person requests for technical support in a timely, professional, and      customer-focused manner. 
• Explain technical concepts and system issues clearly and effectively to non-technical users. 
• Troubleshoot and support software applications, operating systems, hardware, printers, mobile devices, and various hardware/software configurations while performing appropriate testing and diagnostics. 
• Identify, research, and resolve technical problems; escalate issues to appropriate support teams or vendors when necessary. 
• Work in a fast-paced environment with the ability to adapt to changing priorities, schedules, technologies, and operational demands. 
• Collaborate with diverse groups and individuals to establish priorities, support business objectives, and resolve complex technical issues. 
• Support purchased software applications by troubleshooting user issues, duplicating errors, coordinating with software vendors, documenting procedures, testing updates and enhancements, and validating data integrity through queries and system audits. 
• Provide daily production and operational IT support as needed to minimize downtime and support business continuity. 
• Administer, maintain, and monitor physical and virtual servers,      including system performance, backups, updates, patch management, and system health monitoring. 
• Administer and monitor network infrastructure including TCP/IP networking, ethernet networking, switches, wireless systems, VPN connectivity, and physical network configurations. 
• Manage user accounts, permissions, access rights, and security groups within Active Directory, Microsoft 365, SharePoint, and related systems. 
• Support cybersecurity initiatives including endpoint protection, password management, multifactor authentication (MFA), antivirus management, access control, phishing prevention, and vulnerability      mitigation. 
• Monitor systems and networks for security threats, unauthorized access attempts, malware activity, and compliance risks; report findings and escalate issues as necessary. 
• Assist with implementation and enforcement of IT security policies, data protection standards, backup procedures, disaster recovery plans, and acceptable use policies. 
• Maintain compliance with applicable federal, state, and local cybersecurity, data privacy, records retention, and information security laws, regulations, and company policies. 
• Support internal and external IT audits, risk assessments, security reviews, and compliance initiatives. 
• Maintain computer asset inventories, software licensing records, equipment tracking, and lifecycle documentation. 
• Ensure organization, cleanliness, and operational readiness of IT environments, server rooms, network closets, and technical workspaces both physically and virtually. 
• Create and maintain technical documentation, procedures, troubleshooting guides, and support records. 
• Train and educate employees on technology usage, cybersecurity awareness, password security, phishing prevention, and IT best practices. 
• Report findings, unresolved technical concerns, compliance issues, and system vulnerabilities to the IT Supervisor as appropriate. 
• Demonstrate commitment to total quality, continuous improvement, operational excellence, and customer service. 
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by management. 

Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, Business Technologies, Cybersecurity, or related field preferred. 
• 2–5 years of experience in general IT support, systems administration, or technical support preferred. 
• Knowledge of personal computer hardware, peripherals, and troubleshooting techniques. 
• Knowledge of TCP/IP networking, ethernet networking, wireless networking, and physical cabling infrastructure. 
• Knowledge of Windows and Linux operating systems. 
• Experience administering Microsoft platforms including Windows Server, SQL Server, Exchange, Microsoft Office Suite, and related      enterprise technologies. 
• Experience with Microsoft 365 administration and support. 
• Experience with Microsoft Active Directory administration and user management. 
• Understanding cybersecurity principles, network security, endpoint protection, access controls, and data protection best practices. 
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local cybersecurity and data privacy compliance requirements preferred. 
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. 
• Excellent communication and organizational skills with the ability to interact effectively with IT technical teams, business customers, vendors, and leadership. 
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. 
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities. 
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail. 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive company information professionally and discreetly. 
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as business needs require. 
• Relevant certifications such as CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Microsoft, or Cisco certifications preferred but not required. 

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions

• Ability to assemble and disassemble computer equipment, hardware components, and related technology devices. 
• Fine manipulation using both hands on a moderate basis. 
• Typing and computer usage for at least half of the work shift. 
• Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, twist, and reach on a moderate basis while working with equipment and infrastructure. 
• Firm grasping with both hands on a moderate basis. 
• Ability to walk and stand for up to half of the workday. 
• Ability to occasionally lift and move computer equipment, monitors, peripherals, and related hardware as needed. 
• Ability to work in office, manufacturing, server room, and production environments with varying temperatures and noise levels.

Organizational Culture

· Work safely and follow rules and guidelines for safe work

· Reporting to work on time and with a positive attitude

· Responsible for staying focused on tasks at hand

· Being responsible for work performance and completing tasks throughout the day

· Maintains a good working relationship with co-workers

· Support a positive and steady workflow through the company

· Works with a sense of urgency when needed

· Support, coach or mentor co-workers when needed

· Positively support change throughout the company

*Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.