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Position Type:
Technical Specialist/Network and Security Administrator
Date Posted:
5/7/2026
Location:
Region 9 ESC
Job Summary
Design and maintain resilient digital infrastructures for our organization and the rural school districts we serve. Implement enterprise-grade security frameworks to protect student data and ensure reliable, high-speed connectivity for digital learning. Provide consultation and hands-on support, help small districts bridge the technological divide, and meet complex compliance standards.
Qualifications
Education/Certification
Bachelor's degree preferred and/or comparable experience
Advanced training certifications preferred
Special Knowledge/Skills
Knowledge of computer hardware and software applications
Knowledge of computer, network, and security systems
Ability to install, maintain, and repair computers and peripherals
Ability to diagnose problems and perform repairs
Ability to operate and troubleshoot distance learning endpoint equipment, as well as distance learning bridges
Ability to detect, analyze, and solve technical problems
Ability to communicate effectively
Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Experience
Experience with a variety of computer software applications and technologies
Experience in working with ASCENDER software preferred
Major Job Responsibilities
1. Multi-Tenant Management: Design, configure, and maintain LAN/WAN infrastructures across diverse member district environments.
2. Network Reliability: Monitor network performance and troubleshoot connectivity issues to improve uptime for digital learning.
3. Hardware Lifecycle: Install and support routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points (WAPs) optimized for school campuses.
4. Cloud Integration: Administer and secure cloud-based networking solutions and identity management systems (e.g., Azure AD/Entra ID, Google Workspace).
5. VPN & Remote Access: Manage secure remote access solutions for staff and vendors across district lines.
6. Threat Mitigation: Implement and manage endpoint protection, EDR, and mail security to defend against ransomware and phishing.
7. Incident Response: Act as a primary responder for security breaches, conducting containment, investigation, and recovery.
8. Vulnerability Management: Perform regular internal and external scans; prioritize and oversee patching schedules.
9. CIPA/FERPA Compliance: Ensure all network configurations and filtering meet federal and state privacy and safety requirements.
10. Firewall Administration: Maintain rigorous Next-Gen Firewall (NGFW) policies, including content filtering and intrusion prevention.
11. Backup & Disaster Recovery: Oversee robust backup strategies and regularly test restoration procedures to ensure data resiliency.
12. Rural Outreach: Provide high-level technical consultation to rural superintendents and tech coordinators on infrastructure upgrades.
13. Security Auditing: Assist districts in completing state-mandated security audits and self-assessments.
14. Strategic Planning: Help districts develop 3-to-5-year technology roadmaps aligned with their specific budgetary constraints.
15. E-Rate Support: Provide technical specifications and documentation required for E-Rate funding applications.
16. User Training: Develop and deliver cybersecurity awareness training for district staff and ESC employees.
17. Project Management: Lead networking and security projects from initial scope through implementation and hand-off.
18. Vendor Relations: Coordinate with ISPs and hardware vendors to resolve service outages and negotiate equipment procurement.
19. Documentation: Maintain meticulous network diagrams, IP schemes, and security SOPs for all supported entities.
20. Policy Development: Help draft and update Acceptable Use Policies (AUP) and Incident Response Plans for member districts.
21. Asset Management: Track hardware inventory and licensing renewals across the service region.
22. Help Desk Escalation: Serve as the Tier 3 escalation point for complex networking or security tickets.
23. On-Site Support: Travel to rural district sites as needed for physical installs or emergency troubleshooting.
24. Continuous Learning: Stay current on emerging threats (e.g., K-12 targeted malware) and modern networking protocols.
25. Collaborative Innovation: Work with the Region 9 IT team to evaluate new tools that improve service delivery to small schools.
26. Provide professional development and technical assistance through face-to-face and/or remote technology, as necessary.
Minor Job Responsibilities
1. Maintain accurate records of time and materials required to perform repairs and service.
2. Respond to after hour emergencies as needed.
3. Coordinate with other ESC Departments/Services.
4. Assist with any assigned tasks deemed necessary for the function of the ESC or assistance with clients.
Professional Ethics/Principals
1. Models stellar customer services, professionalism, and courtesy in all interactions with stakeholders.
2. Embodies dependability, drive, flexibility, thoroughness, accuracy, and neatness while completing tasks.
3. Fosters teamwork through collaboration and is eager to assist with efforts across the ESC.
4. Exhibits confidentiality and respect regarding district and ESC personnel, data, and information.
5. Professionally communicates accurate and timely information to all stakeholders.
6. Utilizes technology to increase efficiency and seeks new and innovative technological solutions.
7. Demonstrates professional growth through training and collaboration to enhance job performance.
8. Functions within all policies and procedures of Region 9 ESC.
Equipment Used
Hand tools and test instruments for electronic repairs and cable installations
Servers, routers, and distance learning equipment
Standard office equipment, including servers, computer and peripherals
Standard instructional equipment
Working Conditions
Mental Demands
Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress
Physical Demands/Environmental Factors
Posture: Prolonged sitting
Motion: Repetitive hand motions; frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; regular walking, grasping, squeezing, wrist flexion/extension, reaching; may climb ladders
Lifting: Occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); moderate lifting and carrying (up to 44 pounds); occasional heavy lifting (45 pounds and over)
Environment: Exposure to electrical hazards; occasional regional and statewide travel; occasional prolonged and irregular hours.
Region 9 Education Service Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer
FOR INFORMATION OR APPLICATION CONTACT:
Christi Pirkle
Region 9 Education Service Center
301 Loop 11, Wichita Falls, TX 76306
(940) 322-6928 christi.pirkle@esc9.net