Director Of Innovation Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

SALARY:      $155,000

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF WORK:

This is specialized administrative work in the overall management of the City's information systems in a complex data and telecommunications environment, including computer services; voice, data, and video signals; and public safety support services.  Based on administrative priorities, the appointee is responsible for strategic planning to ensure appropriate use of Information Technology in maintaining or improving the quality, efficiency and cost effectiveness of public services. 

The appointee interacts with fellow employees, visitors, and citizens of the City of Dearborn and demonstrates the highest standards of internal and external customer service.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Essential Job Functions (Functions essential to attaining job objectives):

• Strategic Leadership: Develops and defines policies, objectives, and roadmaps for the continuous advancement of IT, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and smart city initiatives (e.g., the Dearborn Innovation Hub and AI pilot programs).

• System Modernization: Oversees the decommissioning of legacy mainframe architectures and leads the migration and integration of modern, cloud-based SaaS platforms (such as BS&A ERP and Trimble Unity Enterprise Asset Management).

• Cybersecurity & Compliance: Controls overall enterprise security. Partners with federal and state agencies (e.g., CISA, MSP/EMHSD) to manage vulnerability scanning, web application security, and grant-funded cybersecurity hardening projects (SLCGP).

• Disaster Recovery: Oversees database administration and ensures highly resilient data protection and advanced backup solutions (e.g., Google Cloud Platform environments) specifically tailored for uninterrupted public safety and 911 dispatch operations.

• Vendor & Grant Management: Monitors contracts, negotiates service level agreements (SLAs), and oversees vendors engaged in IT-related projects. Actively pursues, secures, and manages federal and state technology grants.

• Digital Accessibility & Web: Ensures public-facing digital properties (like dearborn.gov) meet modern accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1 AA) and deploys effective telecom strategies (e.g., IVR Auto-Attendants) to protect staff workflows and improve resident communication.

• Infrastructure Management: Plans and coordinates the maintenance, networking, and secure data transfer across multiple municipal facilities and hybrid cloud environments (e.g., Google Workspace administration).

• Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance.

Marginal Job Functions (Peripheral or incidental to primary job functions):

• Performs related work as required.  

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Considerable knowledge of modern cloud-based Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and municipal software environments, including system integration via APIs, SaaS architecture, and secure data migration from legacy systems.

• Extensive knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks (NIST, CISA), network vulnerability assessments, and managing hybrid cloud/on-premise disaster recovery solutions for critical municipal operations.

• Considerable knowledge of modern unified communications, Google Workspace enterprise administration, and advanced threat filtering.

• Thorough knowledge of appropriate standards and evaluation criteria for the selection, procurement, and management of IT consultants, contractors, and third-party software vendors.

• Working knowledge of core municipal government functions (Finance, Assessing, Public Works, Public Safety).

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

A Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Public Administration, or a related field of study, plus considerable relevant executive management experience in an IT environment. Experience must include leading large-scale system migrations, enterprise cloud adoption, cybersecurity management, development of technology budgets, and staff development.

A graduate degree is preferred and may substitute for some experience. Professional certifications (e.g., CISSP, PMP, ITIL) and continuing education in executive management, cybersecurity, and public sector technology are highly desirable.

NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

A valid driver license and a good driving record.