Director Of Information Technology

Position Overview

The Director of Information Technology at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center is responsible for overseeing the operational performance and management of all information technology systems supporting the museum, educational programs, ticketing, retail, food service, and administrative functions. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, this role translates technology strategy into executable operational plans ensuring availability, security, and integrity of IT infrastructure and services.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily IT operations including service availability, incident response, problem resolution, and change management processes.
• Define and report on service levels, maintain a functional service desk, and oversee escalation procedures.
• Resolve hardware, software, network, and application issues minimizing impact on public-facing operations and internal programs.
• Maintain updated inventories for IT assets, software, and licensing.
• Develop and enforce IT procedures, standards, and policies aligned with enterprise guidelines.
• Oversee infrastructure including servers, storage, virtualization, backup whether onsite or cloud-based.
• Manage campus network connectivity including LAN, WAN, wireless, and segmented guest/trainee networks.
• Supervise data center and server room environment maintenance including power, cooling, physical security, and cabling standards.
• Manage telephone and unified communications, collaborating on telecommunications strategy.
• Keep network diagrams, documentation, and procedures current to ensure coverage in absence.
• Ensure business application systems integrity, availability, and support including POS, ticketing, registration, accounting, and HR systems.
• Serve as IT lead for system integrations and data exchanges across departments and applications.
• Administer SQL Server, develop queries and reports to support operational and financial needs.
• Coordinate application upgrades and patching to minimize disruption during peak times.
• Implement technical security controls working closely with cybersecurity leadership.
• Manage identity and access, including role-based permissions and prompt account deactivation.
• Ensure compliance with PCI DSS and participate in security assessments and audits.
• Protect sensitive information, especially records of minors, and support privacy compliance.
• Maintain vulnerability management programs and monitor security logs with escalation of risks.
• Promote security training and compliance tracking within the department.
• Maintain and test disaster recovery plans including backup restoration and tabletop exercises, reporting outcomes.
• Participate in incident response and emergency technology operations including after-hours support.
• Plan and execute IT projects, upgrades, and system deployments adhering to budgets and schedules.
• Develop procurement requirements and evaluate vendors for technology acquisitions.
• Research emerging technologies such as automation and AI for potential implementation based on cost-benefit analysis.
• Manage IT budgets and vendor relationships ensuring adherence to contracts and state purchasing policies.
• Lead and supervise IT staff including hiring, training, scheduling, performance reviews, and maintaining certifications.
• Ensure 24/7 IT coverage with appropriate on-call and cross-training policies.
• Support legal discovery, electronic records preservation, and compliance with public records requirements.
• Collaborate across departments to deliver technology solutions supporting education, operations, retail, and guest experiences.
• Coordinate with audio-visual, security, and operations teams on integrated technology systems.
• Communicate effectively with leadership, technical staff, vendors, and partners with clear reporting on IT risks and service status.
• Perform additional duties as assigned including audits and operational improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field required; substitution option with progressive experience.
• Master’s degree and relevant certifications (e.g. CISSP, CISM, PMP, ITIL, Microsoft, Cisco) preferred.
• Minimum eight years progressively responsible IT experience including four years in supervisory or management roles.
• Proven expertise managing enterprise networks, server infrastructure, virtualization, backup, and Microsoft systems.
• Experience supporting critical business applications such as POS, accounting, and HR software.
• Understanding of information security principles and practical application of controls.
• Proficient in budget management, vendor relations, and contract administration.
• Skilled in SQL Server administration and report/query development.
• Ability to train staff and users on hardware, systems, and applications.
• Experience in public sector, nonprofit, museum, or hospitality environments desirable.
• Knowledge of PCI DSS compliance, networked AV, show control, and physical security systems is a plus.

Physical and Other Requirements

• Extended periods of sitting and computer use required.
• Physical ability to walk, climb stairs, lift up to 40 pounds with assistance, and work in confined spaces.
• Visual acuity for reading technical materials and computer screens.
• Hearing and communication abilities sufficient for instruction and collaboration.
• Availability for after-hours support and occasional travel for training and conferences.