Senior Extension Information Technology Analyst

University of Illinois Extension in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) seeks an experienced and advanced analyst in information technology (IT) to fill a full-time, 12-month academic professional position as Senior Extension Information Technology Analayst. The successful candidate will have primary responsibility for providing leadership, strategic analysis and support for statewide UIE IT services regarding network administration, infrastructure development, server management, technology use in UIE programming, electronic communications, and end-user support and training for more than 700 UIE employees in 102 Illinois counties. The individual will support UIE through creative instructional/educational delivery systems, based on a digital first approach. 

One full time position is available.

Location: Urbana, IL

(Position will be housed on campus)

Additional positions may become available in other locations

This is a security-sensitive position.  Comprehensive background checks, including but not limited to a criminal conviction information check, a CANTS check, and a review of the Registered Sex Offender list, will be conducted.

Specific responsibilities of the Senior Extension Information Technology Analyst are as follows:

• Utilize specialized knowledge involving the intersection of Extension and technology.

• Coordinate and implement technology initiatives to increase the effectiveness of Extension activities, outreach, learning and teaching.

• Work with Extension field staff to integrate the most up-to-date solutions and technology into Extension programming. Research and plan for future systems, infrastructure and products as well as specialized software needed for Extension programs.

• Analyze needs relative to options and provide recommendations for technology support that is most effective/efficient use of resources.

• Communicate and enforce standards for use, and security of network, computers, mobile devices and data.

• Manage and analyze end-point systems including performance and development of plans for systems improvement. Ensure secure and consistent file services and backup of all Extension data.

• Develop and deliver training materials (documents, workshops and asynchronous online learning) for end-users on hardware, software and proper use of technology.

• Prepare reports and analysis specific to strategic decisions and make recommendations to Extension Technology Services Manager.

• Administer Extension Windows and Linux servers and services based on industry best practices and University of Illinois guidelines.

• Develop a professional development plan to regularly improve technical competencies.

• Collaborate with other IT staff to provide support and assistance to IT end-users.

• Significant travel; personal transportation required.

• Work will involve flexible hours.

• Perform other duties to further the mission of Extension as assigned.

• Comply with Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity policies and guidelines in all aspects of UIE work and responsibilities. Assist Unit staff with data collection for Affirmative Action, Gender, and Targeted reports as needed.

• To perform the functions of this position, the employee will be required to perform work both within an office and outside in the communities that are served, and must have the capability to travel from one location to the other in a timely fashion.  Employee is responsible for securing personal transportation.  A valid driver’s license is preferred.  Some work will be required during evenings and/or weekends.  When working, the employee may be exposed to a variety of environmental factors to include, but not limited to, hot or cold weather, exposure to noise and allergens, and uneven ground.  In performing the functions of this position, the employee may be subjected to various mental and physical demands as well to include, but not limited to, independently traveling to and performing work at different locations, lifting and moving items that may occasionally weigh up to forty (40) pounds and frequently weigh up to twenty (20) pounds, and twisting, pushing and pulling movements. More detailed information regarding the functions of this position (including the physical, mental and environmental requirements of the position) may be obtained from Human Resources for the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) by contacting hr@aces.illinois.edu. 

Administrative Relationship: The Senior Extension Information Technology Analyst is administratively responsible to the Extension Technology Services Manager.

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in progress may be considered for interviews, but degree must be completed by hire date. Minimum of 5 years of experience in system and network administration and desktop support. Also required is direct and practical experience with Windows 7, Windows 10, Windows Server 2012 and 2016, and Windows Active Directory, including group policy and authentication models. Experience with typical desktop applications, including Microsoft Office 2013 and 2016, Adobe Acrobat, and internet browsers such as Internet Explorer, Chrome, and Firefox. Experience in software and hardware installation and troubleshooting and with end-point management systems, Wide Area Network technologies, network security, and TCP/IP protocols. Experience with remote desktop assistance. Knowledge of various internet connectivity technologies used by private ISPs, including DSL and cable modems. Proven ability to work independently and as part of collaborative teams. Ability to self-direct, and good communication skills. 

• Preferred: A minimum of 7 years of experience in Windows systems and network administration, WAN and LAN support, Active Directory, and desktop support. Experience with Sophos and Unifi networking technologies. Experience with Dell ImageAssist, DNS, DHCP, and VPN, Powershell scripting and automation, mobile technologies including table computers. Skills and experience in communicating technical material to technical and non-technical users. Knowledge of technologies used to capture and broadcast live or asynchronous education events. Knowledge of the purpose and mission of University of Illinois Extension.  

Additional Information

The position is a full-time, benefits-eligible, non-tenure academic professional position appointed on a 12-month service basis.  The expected start date is as soon as possible after the closing date.  Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Generous vacation and sick leave.  State Universities Retirement System.  Group health, dental, vision and life insurance.

Application Procedure:  To apply, go to https://go.illinois.edu/102076. Log in to your account and upload a cover letter and resume, as well as the names and contact information of three professional references. Resume dates must be in month/year format and employment history, at a minimum, should include all work dating back to the completion of your undergraduate degree. Positions that were less than full-time/100% must be noted as being part-time. Transcripts may be requested at a later date. To receive full consideration, all requested application materials must be submitted via the online system by the close date of September 11, 2018. 

For further information about the position please contact Bill Woessner, Search Committee Chair, at woessner@illinois.edu. For technical assistance with the online application process, call 217-333-6747 or email jobs@illinois.edu.