This job is closed
Applications are no longer available for this announcement. Explore current related opportunities below.
Job description
About Ascend
Ascend is a network of high-performing public charter schools serving students across Brooklyn. Our mission is to ensure that all students, regardless of background, have access to an education that empowers them to unlock their full potential, achieve academic excellence, and pursue a future of boundless opportunity. We cultivate rigorous learning environments where students develop critical thinking skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.
At Ascend, educational equity is a driving force. We are committed to closing the achievement gap by delivering high-quality instruction, fostering a culture of high expectations, and equipping every student with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in college and beyond. Through this unwavering commitment, we prepare students not only to succeed academically but to seize every opportunity that lies ahead.
About the Role
As a leader on the Ascend Technology Team, the Associate Director of Technology (ADT) will play a critical role in supporting and administering the organization’s applications and infrastructure. The ADT is responsible for providing input in making executive technology decisions on behalf of the organization to align the organization with our vision for its technological needs. Travel between our Brooklyn schools and occasional weekend and/or evening work is required.
Key Responsibilities
Responsibilities, including, but not limited to:
Operational Management:
Direct program assessments to ensure that technology standards for teachers and students meet academic goals
Investigate network intrusions, cybersecurity risks, and breaches to identify root causes and mitigate future risks
Support the design, development, and implementation of secure, resilient infrastructure protecting organizational data
Assess organizational and departmental requirements to determine technology needs and ensure alignment with business objectives
Technology Strategy:
Ensure all technology practices comply with regulatory, security, and operational standards
Evaluate short- and long-term technology needs to meet organizational goals
Monitor emerging technologies and industry trends to guide strategic planning
Project & Vendor Management:
Communicate technology updates clearly and promptly to school and network staff
Lead IT projects that improve system efficiency, compliance, and best-practice implementation
Maintain a customer-focused approach to delivering technology solutions
Team Leadership:
Anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and develop strategies that advance operational excellence
Use data, cross-functional goals, and problem-solving to align team efforts with organizational priorities
Supervise and develop Senior Systems Administrators to strengthen technical preparedness, response, and campus-level support
Mentor team members and participate in professional development aligned with organizational needs
Staff and Reporting Relationships
The Associate Director of Technology reports to the Director of Technology
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field
7+ years of work experience in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment
3+ years of managerial experience
Industry certifications (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft, Cisco, PMI, HP) are a plus
Knowledge of networking and cloud networking (Cisco, Meraki, software-defined networking, network virtualization, load balancing, DNS, VPN) and their application to PaaS and IaaS technologies
Experience administering and supporting Windows/MacOS, enterprise, and school-based applications
Experience with Microsoft’s technology stack (Active Directory, Windows Server, DNS, DHCP, Hyper-V, Azure, etc.)
Strong understanding of application, server, and network security
Demonstrated ability to monitor and optimize the performance of all technology systems, including staff devices, network infrastructure, applications, and hardware
Ability to analyze organizational and departmental requirements to determine technology needs and ensure alignment with business goals
Experience in evaluating, purchasing, and managing cost-effective hardware, software, and services, including negotiating vendor contracts and maintaining strategic vendor relationships
Experience in monitoring and optimizing the performance of all technology systems, including staff devices, network infrastructure, applications, and hardware
Skills and Traits
A successful Associate Director of Technology will demonstrate:
Extensive industry knowledge and a forward-thinking mindset, with the ability to anticipate emerging technologies and organizational needs.
Strong leadership, team management, and organizational skills, including effective delegation and the ability to guide teams to achieve key performance indicators.
Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to prioritize, problem-solve, and build trust with diverse stakeholders.
Ability to operate in a fast-paced, collaborative, service-oriented environment, demonstrating flexibility, adaptability, and resilience.
Comfort balancing hands-on technical work with strategic planning, contributing both to immediate needs and long-term initiatives.
Strong troubleshooting and critical-thinking abilities, with a commitment to delivering high-quality, results-oriented work.
High degree of independence and initiative, knowing when to take ownership and when to seek guidance or escalate issues.
Excellent time and task management skills, with the ability to perform effectively in a KPI-driven environment.
Compensation
The salary will start at $90,000 annually, commensurate with the level of experience.
Location & Work Arrangement
Based in our Brooklyn, NY office
Hybrid work schedule requiring in-office presence at least three days per week
Occasional professional conference travel
In-person work expectations include network office time, stakeholder meetings, school visits, special events, and other role-specific responsibilities as determined by management.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Worksite address
new york, NY, 10261, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.