Urgent Hiring :: West Africa :: Relocation :: Head of IT

Job Description: Head of IT

Location: The Gambia, West Africa

Reports to: Director
Position Type: Full-time

Role Overview:

The Head of IT will oversee the schools technology infrastructure, ensuring reliable and efficient operations to support educational and administrative functions. This role demands strong technical expertise, leadership skills, and a hands-on approach to managing the schools fiber (the “physical” infrastructure is managed by a 3rd party company) network, managed switches, mesh access points, IP-based security cameras, and other IT systems.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Network Management:
• Design, manage, and maintain the school's IT network infrastructure, including fiber optic networks, managed switches, and mesh access points.
• Monitor network performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure optimal connectivity for staff and students.
• Document and understand the school's network topology for streamlined maintenance and upgrades.
2. IT Support & Troubleshooting:
• Act as the primary point of contact for IT troubleshooting, addressing hardware, software, and network-related issues promptly.
• Provide support and training to staff and students on the use of IT systems.
• Develop protocols for diagnosing and resolving recurring issues efficiently.
3. Security & Surveillance:
• Manage and maintain the IP-based camera system to ensure reliable surveillance across the campus.
• Implement and maintain cybersecurity measures to protect the school’s digital assets and network.
4. Technology Integration:
• Collaborate with faculty and administration to identify and implement innovative technologies to enhance teaching and learning.
• Ensure compatibility and integration of new software and hardware with the existing systems.
5. Leadership & Strategy:
• Lead the IT team, if applicable, providing mentorship and task delegation.
• Develop and manage the IT budget, ensuring cost-effective procurement and resource allocation.
• Keep abreast of advancements in educational technology and recommend strategic improvements.
6. Maintenance & Vendor Coordination:
• Oversee the maintenance of IT infrastructure and negotiate with vendors for equipment, licenses, and support services.
• Schedule regular system updates, patches, and backups to ensure uninterrupted services.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Education:
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Networking, or a related field. Certifications (e.g., CCNA, CompTIA Network+, or equivalent) are a plus.
• Experience:
• Proven experience in network management, IT troubleshooting, and infrastructure maintenance. Experience in an educational environment is preferred.
• Technical Skills:
• In-depth knowledge of fiber-optic networks, managed switches, mesh access points, and IP-based systems.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for both hardware and software issues.
• Proficiency in network security, firewalls, and data protection protocols.
• Soft Skills:
• Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong communication skills to explain technical concepts to non-technical users.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Working Conditions:

• Based on-campus, with occasional requirements to work after school hours for maintenance or troubleshooting.
• May require some lifting of hardware and network equipment.

Job Description: Head of IT

Location: The Gambia, West Africa

Reports to: Director
Position Type: Full-time

Role Overview:

The Head of IT will oversee the school’s technology infrastructure, ensuring reliable and efficient operations to support educational and administrative functions. This role demands strong technical expertise, leadership skills, and a hands-on approach to managing the school’s fiber (the “physical” infrastructure is managed by a 3rd party company) network, managed switches, mesh access points, IP-based security cameras, and other IT systems.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Network Management:
• Design, manage, and maintain the school's IT network infrastructure, including fiber optic networks, managed switches, and mesh access points.
• Monitor network performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure optimal connectivity for staff and students.
• Document and understand the school's network topology for streamlined maintenance and upgrades.
2. IT Support & Troubleshooting:
• Act as the primary point of contact for IT troubleshooting, addressing hardware, software, and network-related issues promptly.
• Provide support and training to staff and students on the use of IT systems.
• Develop protocols for diagnosing and resolving recurring issues efficiently.
3. Security & Surveillance:
• Manage and maintain the IP-based camera system to ensure reliable surveillance across the campus.
• Implement and maintain cybersecurity measures to protect the school’s digital assets and network.
4. Technology Integration:
• Collaborate with faculty and administration to identify and implement innovative technologies to enhance teaching and learning.
• Ensure compatibility and integration of new software and hardware with the existing systems.
5. Leadership & Strategy:
• Lead the IT team, if applicable, providing mentorship and task delegation.
• Develop and manage the IT budget, ensuring cost-effective procurement and resource allocation.
• Keep abreast of advancements in educational technology and recommend strategic improvements.
6. Maintenance & Vendor Coordination:
• Oversee the maintenance of IT infrastructure and negotiate with vendors for equipment, licenses, and support services.
• Schedule regular system updates, patches, and backups to ensure uninterrupted services.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Education:
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Networking, or a related field. Certifications (e.g., CCNA, CompTIA Network+, or equivalent) are a plus.
• Experience:
• Proven experience in network management, IT troubleshooting, and infrastructure maintenance. Experience in an educational environment is preferred.
• Technical Skills:
• In-depth knowledge of fiber-optic networks, managed switches, mesh access points, and IP-based systems.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for both hardware and software issues.
• Proficiency in network security, firewalls, and data protection protocols.
• Soft Skills:
• Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong communication skills to explain technical concepts to non-technical users.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.