Software Assistant Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Mission Statement

Through the use of social and restorative justice principles, Five Keys provides traditionally underserved communities the opportunity to improve their lives through a focus on the Five Keys: EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT, RECOVERY, FAMILY, COMMUNITY.

Five Keys Overview

Five Keys is a nonprofit organization that operates an extensive network of programs across California. With a presence in 14 counties and over 120 locations, Five Keys focuses on various initiatives aimed at empowering individuals and families to overcome poverty and inequity. The organization's programs encompass a wide range of services, including public charter schools, restorative justice programs in jails and prisons, shelters, permanent supportive housing, and the development of new housing and support programs. At Five Keys, the overarching objective is to uplift individuals and families by providing them with essential resources. This includes education, housing, employment, and the necessary tools to sustain their progress. By offering these fundamental elements, the organization aims to create positive and lasting change in communities, making them better places for everyone.

Our Core Competencies

A well qualified candidate has the capacity to communicate effectively, collaborate with others while building positive relationships, demonstrates strong problem solving skills, has a dynamic learning mindset, and remains committed to a high level of cultural and social awareness. A successful candidate will work well under pressure, observe appropriate boundaries and operate with a high degree of emotional intelligence.

What it's really like to join our agency...

At Five Keys, culture matters. Culture is at the very core of everything we do and impact on a daily basis. We've made a commitment to building an inclusive culture that seeks collaboration over hierarchy to create empowered work teams. We serve vulnerable populations daily and we strive to approach everyone with compassion, patience and a trauma informed approach. We choose to push past discomfort to have difficult conversations to impact the greater good. This allows us the opportunity to collaboratively create an inclusive culture and transform the world around us.

JOB SUMMARY

The Personal Computer (PC) Technician reports to the IT Systems Manager and plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and effective use of the organization's computer technology. This position involves providing on-site and remote technical support to Five Keys staff and students, diagnosing and resolving hardware and software issues, installing and configuring computer systems and peripherals, and contributing to the overall maintenance and security of the IT infrastructure.
This role is a highly visible position. We are looking for someone who insists on maintaining a positive attitude and enjoys supporting a diverse group of people. If this job is for you, you are able to display and maintain the highest level of professionalism and confidentiality at all times, while also maintaining strong boundaries. You must also be able to work and communicate effectively with all levels of management.
This temporary, part-time position is due to expire upon 6 months of employment. This role supports community and in-custody sites throughout multiple counties in either the socal or norcal region.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide first technical support to end-users via phone, email, in-person, and remote access
• Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and network connectivity issues on desktops, laptops, printers, and other peripherals
• Troubleshoot operating system problems (Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, Google, etc.) and support Google Workspace, internet browsers, Microsoft Office, and other typical applications
• Assist users with software installation, configuration, and usage
• Escalate complex issues to higher-level IT staff as needed
• Install, configure, and maintain desktop and laptop computers, including operating systems, applications, and install drivers to configure printers, scanners, and other peripheral devices
• Perform hardware repairs and upgrades as necessary
• Assist with the deployment of new hardware and software
• Assist with network troubleshooting and basic network configuration
• Maintain an accurate inventory of staff and student devices, such as computer hardware and software,etc. 
• Follow established IT procedures and documentation standards
• Report any suspected security breaches or vulnerabilities

• Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Able to maintain strict confidentiality and take all precautions when handling sensitive information
• The ability to think proactively and actively seek opportunities and purposeful solutions
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to explain technical information to a variety of internal and external stakeholders 

• Working knowledge of Zoom, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and databases
• Knowledge of common peripherals (monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, scanners, etc.) and how they connect and function.
• Troubleshooting basic wired and wireless network connection issues.
• Basic troubleshooting of smartphones and tablets (iOS and Android).
• Understanding of mobile operating systems and common applications.

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or GED required 
• Associate's Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Systems, or a related technical field provides a solid foundation in computer hardware, software, and networking concepts preferred OR 
• Vocational or Technical Certifications focused on computer repair, IT support, or networking preferred

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS  

• To promote the health and safety of its employees, those we serve and our local communities, Five Keys requires that all employees must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and/or adhere to all weekly testing and safety measures. Employees may also request and receive approval for an exemption from this policy. Exemptions are granted to accommodate a medical condition or sincerely held religious belief 
• Must wear provided PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and adhere to all safety guidelines and requirements, when needed
• Frequent talking and hearing conversations
• Long periods of walking, sitting at a desk and/or computer station
• Lifting items and equipment that weighs up to 25 lbs.; reaching, bending, carrying and stooping within the daily routine of tasks and activities

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

This position is contingent upon: 

• Satisfactory results of a Live Scan (criminal background investigation)
• Submitting proof of clear TB results. Results dated within 60 days prior to hire date are acceptable

WORK ENVIRONMENT  

• Moderate to high noise level
• Work environment varies from site to site
• Some personal safety risks working in underserved communities
• Must be willing and able to work in a correctional facility, travel throughout the area to community sites, and travel state-wide to various locations or meetings as needed
• Up to 30% travel to Five Keys locations throughout California as needed

GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

At Five Keys, we understand that when our employees grow, the agency has a greater capacity to thrive and accomplish its mission. It is for this reason that we remain committed to providing ongoing professional development opportunities for all of our employees. These include but are not limited to: conferences, staff development training, and coaching plans that allow incumbents to grow into new positions within and across programs within the agency (i.e., programs, schools, housing).