About Us: New America is dedicated to realizing America's promise in an era of rapid technological and social change. At New America, our research and policy recommendations focus on five key thematic areas: education from birth to workforce; family economic security and wellbeing; people- and planet-centered global politics; political reform and civic engagement; and technology and democracy. In each area of our work, we prioritize equity, elevate the stories of people closest to the public problems we seek to solve, invest in the next generation of leaders, and intentionally engage with local perspectives.

Job Summary: We are seeking a dedicated and experienced IT Specialist to join our team in Washington, DC. The IT Specialist will be responsible for maintaining and improving our IT infrastructure, providing technical support to staff, and ensuring the security and efficiency of our systems. This role reports to the Sr. Director of IT and requires a proactive individual with a strong technical background and excellent problem-solving skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Technical Support: Provide technical assistance and support for incoming queries and issues related to computer systems, software, and hardware.
• System Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance and updates on IT systems, including servers, networks, and workstations to ensure optimal performance.
• Network Management: Monitor and maintain network infrastructure, including firewalls, switches, routers, and VPNs, ensuring reliable and secure connectivity.
• Security: Implement and manage security measures to protect the organization's data and IT systems from unauthorized access, cyber threats, and data breaches.
• Software Management: Install, configure, and update software applications and operating systems. Manage software licenses and ensure compliance.
• Hardware Management: Oversee the procurement, installation, and maintenance of IT hardware, including computers, printers, and other peripheral devices.
• User Training: Conduct training sessions for staff on new software and IT best practices. Create and maintain user guides and documentation.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve technical issues in a timely manner. When necessary, escalate complex problems to higher-level support.
• Project Support: Assist with IT projects, including system upgrades, migrations, and new technology implementations. Collaborate with other departments to understand and meet their IT needs.
• Inventory Management: Maintain an inventory of IT assets and ensure all equipment is properly documented and tracked.

Qualifications:

• Education: Associate’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in an IT support or specialist role.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in Windows and Mac operating systems.
  • Strong knowledge of network protocols, security, and administration.
  • Office 365, Google Workspace
  • Familiarity with cloud services (e.g., AWS, Azure).
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other common software applications.
• Certifications: Relevant IT certifications (e.g., CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Microsoft Certified IT Professional) are highly desirable.
• Soft Skills:
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • High level of attention to detail and organizational skills.

Working Conditions:

• Standard office environment with occasional requirements to work outside normal business hours.
• Ability to lift and move IT equipment as needed.

Compensation & Benefits: The salary range for this role is $55,000 - $65,000 annually.

This position is a full-time role with benefits. New America offers a highly competitive benefits package that includes health care, dental, and vision coverage; a generous retirement plan; observes all federal holidays; 20 days of paid time off (combined vacation and sick days) in your first year of employment and 30 days of paid time off in subsequent years; 12 weeks of paid parental leave; and an office-wide closure between Christmas and New Year.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume outlining their qualifications and experience. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, but priority consideration will be given to applications received before 7/12/24. Please, no phone calls or emails.

Originality and Transparency: At New America, we value authentic voices and intellectual property rights. All application materials, including, cover letters, writing samples, and any other submissions, must be solely your own original work. The use of AI text generation tools like ChatGPT, language models, or other artificial intelligence writing assistants is strictly prohibited for any part of your job application. Submissions found to contain AI-generated content will be immediately disqualified from consideration. Applicants have a responsibility to be fully transparent about authorship and any tools or resources utilized. We celebrate human ingenuity and want to hear your genuine thoughts and experiences.

Equal Opportunity Employer: New America is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. This is a bargaining unit role.