IT Specialist

Delaware Nation Industries • Bluemont, VA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Office of Emergency Management (A/OEM) is responsible for fulfilling the Department of State's responsibilities mandated by Presidential Policy Directive 40 (PPD-40), National Continuity Policy. The Department’s Continuity programs cover a wide range of threats, including natural disasters, military and terrorist attacks, and technological emergencies. The Diplomatic Continuity Programs Division (A/OEM/DCP) is tasked with developing emergency and continuity plans and ensuring readiness to respond to national security emergencies. This role involves providing Audio Visual (AV), Telecommunications/PBX, and Information Technology (IT) communications systems support and continuity communications services for the design, development, implementation, deployment, operation, and maintenance of continuity-specific hardware, software, telecommunications/networking systems, and operations. The IT Specialist will be part of a technical team, working alongside other contract and government personnel to provide real-time services for the operation, maintenance, testing, and development of AV, IT, and telecommunications systems for continuity communications operations, enabling the Bureau of Administration and A/OEM/DCP to conduct the Department of State’s domestic emergency continuity mission.

Requirements

• At least 6 years of experience as a dynamic, self-motivated individual with experience, knowledge, and skills as a Mid-Level IT Specialist.
• Working knowledge of Windows, Microsoft Office, and other Personal Computer-based applications that may be used in all aspects of the position.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written), tact, services, and teamwork are critical. The position is part of a team within a matrixed organization.
• Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
• Skilled in the transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of various IT/communications systems.
• Knowledge of information security and physical security programs to safeguard, control, and regulate access to classified U.S. national security and cryptographic information.
• Must be able to follow established policies and regulations with exact precision and attention to detail.
• Must be able to develop and maintain productive working relationships with colleagues both internal and external to the Department.
• Top-Secret clearance, with the ability to acquire Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access.
• Occasional travel to support remote locations throughout the country, as needed, may be required.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends for events or emergencies.
• Comfortable working at heights (ladders, lifts) and in confined spaces.
• Ability to lift and move equipment (typically 50+ lbs).
• Ability to lead and mentor junior technicians.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills with technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarization with networking related to IT infrastructure concepts, principles, and practices is preferred.
• Knowledge of cloud computing environments, local and wide area networking, and procedures used by federal private industry organizations.
• IT Certifications (CompTIA A+ Network+, Security+, Cloud+, CCNA, MS-900, MS-102)
• Bachelor’s Degree in the IT field.
• Knowledge of Video Teleconferencing systems is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Installs, configures, and maintains secure and non-secure IT infrastructure, including data, voice, and video systems for the Department as a member of the Secure Communications Team.
• Serves as 24/7 on-call point of contact for all IT and communications issues, ensuring continuity of mission-critical operations across Department facilities.
• Manages classified and unclassified IT resources and security systems, facilitating secure communication between the Department and other agencies.
• Assists the Government Senior IT Specialist with IT resources at unclassified, SECRET, and TOP SECRET classification levels across conference rooms, offices, and residences.
• Assists in ensuring physical and operational security of classified video systems, conference rooms, and sensitive IT infrastructure.
• Assist in enforcing security policies and procedures to prevent potential security violations and maintains compliance with federal information security standards.
• Programs, operates, maintains, tests, and troubleshoots secure IT/communications systems and networks.
• Administers, maintains, and tracks desktop computers, including imaging, deployment, patching, and hardware repairs.
• Manages mobile device fleet, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops; performs MDM (Mobile Device Management) administration and troubleshooting.
• Manages Microsoft Teams sites and Webex platforms, including user provisioning, meeting configurations, and integration support.
• Monitors system performance and implements proactive maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Manages user accounts, permissions, and access controls across multiple systems and classification levels.
• Performs software installations, updates, and license management.
• Configures and troubleshoots network printers, scanners, and peripheral devices.
• Develops and maintains Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for IT systems operation and security protocols.
• Creates and updates technical documentation, including system configurations, network diagrams, and troubleshooting guides.
• Provides technical training to staff on IT systems, security procedures, and collaboration tools.
• Documents IT incidents, resolutions, and system changes in ticketing system.
• Prepares routine correspondence, reports, and technical documentation.
• Maintains electronic repositories for essential records, ensuring proper data retention, classification, and security.
• Assists with IT project planning, implementation, and testing for system upgrades and new installations.
• Tracks IT assets using inventory management systems and maintains accurate asset records.
• Participates in disaster recovery planning and business continuity exercises.
• Conducts regular security audits and vulnerability assessments of IT systems.
• Serves as a customer service representative for IT issues and provides technical support for project installations, design, maintenance, and testing of IT/data transfer equipment and system.
• Adapts to the dynamic requirements of supporting high-level government officials in a fast-paced, security-conscious environment.
• Manages multiple complex tasks and projects concurrently under strict deadlines and time constraints.
• Performs effectively in high-pressure, high-intensity situations requiring rapid problem resolution.
• Maintains composure and professionalism when addressing urgent technical issues affecting senior leadership.
• Shall support the deployment and execution of National Continuity Programs by providing transportation, Telecommunications, logistics, and facility setup and operations at designated alternate work locations; and may use Government vehicles solely for official OEM mission needs in accordance with FAR 102–34. 215.

Benefits

• Covers 100% of employee benefit premiums, including Medical (PPO or HDHP Option), Vision, Dental
• Matching 401K
• Short- and Long-Term Disability
• Pet Insurance
• Professional Development/Education Reimbursement
• Parking and Transit Benefits for NY, NJ, ATL, and DC Metro areas

What This Job Offers

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