Purpose and Objectives of the Position: Our Application Support Specialist is responsible for software applications and sub systems to meet the technology needs of the district, staff, and students. They will also provide support to district employees and students on these applications as well as resolve application operational issues.
Implement applications for the purpose of record keeping, journaling, and database organization.
Maintain application, workstation, and LAN/WAN security procedures and access (e.g. firewalls, anti-virus software, etc.) ensuring that district standards are met.
Install third party software packages and upgrades (e.g. system images, patches and updates, etc.) meeting vendor and district requirements to ensure the integrity of the network.
Utilize utilities to manage workstation inventory.
Troubleshoot applications to determine appropriate actions to maintain operations.
Communicate with departments, administrators, and outside agencies, exchanging information and resolving issues.
Develop instructional materials for applications used to convey information to the end users.
Establish and maintain student and staff accounts to provide network access, maintain security, and ensure compliance with district policies.
Monitor and manage data used to create and maintain reports, transmit information and ensure compliance with district and governmental requirements.
Respond to trouble tickets to solve problems, provide information and/or direction as may be requested.
Train district staff on software applications to ensure their ability to use new and/or existing software.
Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions:
Occasionally requires physical exertion to manually move, lift, carry, pull, or push heavy objects or materials.
Occasional stooping, bending, and reaching.
Requires traveling to various locations within the district and occasionally to locations outside of the district.
Requires prolonged sitting, standing, and use of equipment including repetitive motions, and computer eye fatigue.
Must occasionally work in noisy and crowded environments, with numerous interruptions.
Job Requirements: Minimum Qualifications:
Four years of college, technical school or related work experience.
Knowledge of Windows, MacOS, and Linux. (Microsoft certification a plus but not required.)
General understanding of security policies and procedures.
Knowledge of information systems hardware, software, and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to multi-task several different tasks simultaneously.
Must be able to review, interpret, and write technical information.
Ability to meet project deadlines.
Desire to continue career improvement and skill enhancement.
Must be able to move heavy objects up to 50 lbs.
Have a valid driver’s license.
Work Environment:
The usual and customary methods of performing the job`s functions require the following physical demands: occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, some stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling and significant fine finger dexterity. This job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment.
Other Requirements:
Team player who understands goals and responsibilities and helps others meet and exceed these goals.
Ability to use the English language correctly and effectively (written and verbal) and demonstrated ability to communicate technical issues with non-technical persons.
Ability to communicate ideas and plans for network implementation and maintenance.
Ability to respond to information requests in cooperative, courteous and timely manner.
Ability to perform other duties and assume other responsibilities as assigned by the Information and Technology Director.
Ability to observe and follow all school district policies at all times.
Ability to react to change and frequent interruptions in a productive and positive manner, meeting deadlines as assigned.
Ability to implement and follow all district health and safety policies, including all precautions of the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan.
Must verify good health by passing a physical examination that includes TB and drug test as required.
Desire to continue career improvement by enhancing skills and job performance.
Ability to keep student and personnel information and records confidential.
Terms of Employment: At Will. Salary to be established by the Board.
Evaluation: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the USD 450 Board of Education’s policy on Evaluation of Professional Personnel and this job description.
Shawnee Heights U.S.D. 450 is a Class 5A suburban school district located between the two major population centers of Topeka and Lawrence, Kansas.
The district has a student population of approximately 3500 students in grades Pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade. Four elementary schools, a 7/8 middle school and a 9-12 high school comprise the attendance centers of the district.
Shawnee Heights has an ideal location, 8 miles from downtown Topeka, 16 miles from Lawrence, 50 miles from Kansas City, 62 miles from Manhattan and 50 miles from Emporia.
Over 55% of the faculty in the Shawnee Heights district hold a Masters degree or beyond in Education.
The district is noted for its dedication to students, staff, and the community, and its focus for providing a comprehensive program of instruction to meet the varied needs of all students.
