Information Technology (IT) Director

Pawnee Mental Health Services Inc • Manhattan, KS

just now

About The Position

The IT Director at Pawnee Mental Health services plays a vital role in ensuring the organization’s technological infrastructure and systems support it’s mission to deliver high-quality, comprehensive behavioral health services. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, the IT Director provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of all IT functions, including enterprise architecture, network engineering, electronic health record management, system administration, cybersecurity, data management, vendor management, and user help-desk support. This position is instrumental in driving technological innovation, maintaining compliance with healthcare regulations, and enhancing operational efficiency through effective IT solutions.
The ideal candidate will combine technical expertise with a collaborative mindset to align technology with the organization’s clinical and administrative needs. Must be committed to the field of behavioral health, motivated, go-getter, self-starter, strategic thinker and boots on the ground. As this role is new and does not have an incumbent, they will also need strong "building" skills to develop Pawnee's internal IT program and set it up for success.

Requirements

• At least a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Information Technology Management, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Network Engineering, Cloud Computing, or a related field is required.
• 5-7 years of experience in IT leadership roles, within a healthcare setting
• Proven track record of managing IT operations in compliance with healthcare regulations
• Experience with Electronic Health Record systems and healthcare-specific IT infrastructure is required.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with ability to mentor and develop staff
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
• Strategic planning and project management experience
• Understanding of healthcare operations, including workflows, patient privacy, and data security requirements
• Strong oral and written communication skills using the English language.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s Degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, Healthcare Administration, or related field.
• Relevant IT certifications such as Certified Healthcare CIO, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or Project Management Professional (PMP), are preferred.
• Knowledge of SQL writing, and other reporting software languages
• Results of criminal and all other applicable background checks must meet the approval of Pawnee Mental Health Services.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the organization’s IT Strategy, aligning it with the organization’s goals and objectives
• Collaborate with executive leadership to identify technological needs and opportunities for innovation.
• Oversee the maintenance, security, and optimization modernization of the organization’s IT infrastructure, including networks, servers, and hardware.
• Ensure robust data storage, backup, and disaster recovery plans are in place
• Ensure IT Systems comply with all applicable regulations, including HIPAA, 42 CFR part 2, and state-specific data privacy laws
• Implement and manage cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive patient and organizational data
• Administer and optimize the use of Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, ensuring efficient documentation and reporting capabilities
• Train and support clinical and administrative staff in the use of EHR software
• Manage relationships with IT vendors and negotiate contracts for software, hardware, and services
• Manage the IT budget, prioritizing investments that enhance operational efficiency and service delivery
• Develop and oversee IT support services to ensure timely resolution of technical issues for staff
• Provide training and resources to help employees effectively use IT tools and systems
• Implement and maintain data analytics platforms to support decision-making and performance tracking
• Ensure accurate and timely reporting to meet CCBHC, federal, state, and grant requirements
• Lead IT-related projects, such as system upgrades, software implementations, or the rollout of new technologies
• Establish timelines, allocate resources, and manage project risks effectively
• Recruit, train, and supervise IT and Data staff, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide professional development opportunities for the IT team
• Support the preparation of technology-related reports required by CCBHC certification standards
• Collaborate on grant application by providing technical input and ensuring compliance with grant-funded technology requirement
• Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support the organization’s goals and operations, including participating in cross-departmental projects, addressing emerging IT needs, and adapting to evolving CCBHC requirements and technological advancement.

Benefits

• Medical & Vision Insurance: Accessible plans to support your health needs offered through BCBS or Aetna.
• Dental Insurance: 100% covered by Pawnee for employees.
• Kansas Public Employee Retirement System (KPERS): Secure your future with KPERS retirement benefits - a lifetime pension program.
• Other insurances: Life insurance coverage up to 150% of your annual income and long term disability insurance at NO COST.
• Paid Holidays: Enjoy 8 paid holidays throughout the year.
• Generous PTO: Start earning 10 hours of PTO per month (15 days/year), jumps to 24 days/year on your first anniversary.
• Paid Medical Leave: Receive a 40-hour bank of paid medical leave.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access support resources for your personal and professional life.
• Supplemental benefits: Additional life insurance coverage, ambulance transportation, short term disability, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director