Head of Technology

Join to apply for theHead of Technologyrole atThe American School of Barcelona .The Head of Technology will be responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of the school’s ICT infrastructure. This role ensures that servers, networks, and security systems function effectively while also overseeing the management of devices and the integrity of institutional data across learning platforms, student information systems, and administrative applications. The ideal candidate will have proven experience coordinating cross‑functional teams, including software developers and help‑desk personnel, to deliver high‑impact technology solutions. They will be adept at developing and executing comprehensive project plans, including timelines, milestones, and resource allocation, while defining project scope, objectives, and deliverables in collaboration with stakeholders. Additionally, this role involves leading the documentation of the existing network infrastructure and ensuring accurate, thorough documentation for any new systems built. The position also requires expertise in managing budgets and European suppliers.Key ResponsibilitiesInfrastructure Maintenance & DevelopmentAdminister and maintain the school’s core infrastructure : firewalls, servers, switches, Wi‑Fi networks, and backup systems.Ensure reliable connectivity and security across campus facilities.Monitor and enhance system performance, user access, and data integrity.Implement cybersecurity best practices, including regular updates, intrusion detection, and incident response.Demonstrate strong knowledge of VMware ESX virtualization and GNU / Linux servers management.Lead the documentation of the existing network infrastructure, including detailed diagrams, configurations, and protocols, while overseeing the creation and maintenance of comprehensive documentation for new network builds to ensure compliance, scalability, and ease of future management.Coordinate and lead a team of software developers and help desk staff to align efforts on infrastructure projects, system integrations, and support initiatives.Foster collaboration within the team, providing mentorship, performance guidance, and resource allocation to meet departmental goals.Oversee the help desk department’s workflow, ensuring efficient ticket resolution, escalation procedures, and continuous improvement in service delivery.Manage software development projects, guiding developers in building custom integrations, APIs, and applications that enhance school operations.Device & User ManagementOversee the configuration, deployment, and support of school‑issued devices (laptops, iPads, and phones).Manage Mobile Device Management (MDM) systems for secure, efficient rollout and updates.Provide technical support and training to staff and students on device usage and troubleshooting.Data & Systems IntegrationCollaborate in managing the data across academic and administrative platforms, including the Learning Management System (LMS), student information systems, parent portals, financial systems, and demographic databases.Ensure proper user access controls, backups, and data migrations.Work with leadership to improve data‑driven decision‑making by ensuring proper integrations between systems.Apply strong understanding of API / REST application development paradigms, with a focus on integrating disparate systems.Demonstrate knowledge of Google and AWS services, including development APIs.Technology Management and SupportDevelop and maintain IT documentation, procedures, and user guides.Provide frontline Tech support to faculty, staff, and students.Oversee the procurement, deployment, and lifecycle management of hardware, software, and tech equipment.Collaborate with vendors, service providers, and external consultants when needed.Develop and manage comprehensive project plans for IT initiatives, including detailed timelines, key milestones, and resource allocation to ensure on‑time and on‑budget delivery.Define project scope, objectives, and deliverables in close collaboration with stakeholders, including school leadership, faculty, and external partners, to align with institutional priorities.Track project progress, mitigate risks, and adjust plans as needed to accommodate evolving requirements.Budget and Resource ManagementFull ownership of the Technology department budget, following approval procedures and negotiating with local suppliers to optimize agreements together with the Procurement Officer.Create strategic forecasts for resource needs and budgets.Identify cost‑saving opportunities and efficiencies in technology operations and procurement.Required Skills & QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).Proven experience as a Systems Administrator, Network Administrator, or similar role.Technical expertise in :Firewalls, servers (Windows, Linux), virtualization, and networking protocols.Web Server administration and setup under Linux (Apache, NGINX, AWS).Backup solutions and disaster recovery planning.Knowledge of data protection regulations (e.g., European GDPR) and best practices in IT governance, security, and compliance.Experience in managing a technology budget higher than 1M€ in the EU.Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem‑solving abilities.Excellent organizational and communication skills in English and Spanish.Experience with educational platforms such as LMSs and Student Information Systems as well as experience with ERP and Datawarehouse systems in Oracle is a must.Personal AttributesAbility to work collaboratively in an international and multicultural school environment.Strong service orientation and proactive approach to IT challenges.Adaptability to evolving technology and educational needs.Commitment to safeguarding and protecting data and systems across the school community.Working Conditions and BenefitsFull‑time position working Monday – Friday, 9 : 00 am to 5 : 30 pm with one day of remote work; intensive schedule in July and August.Free three‑course lunch at school.30 days summer vacation in addition to school holidays from September through June (equivalent to an additional month).Pension Plan.Partial subsidy on school contracted private health.Visa sponsorship to work in Spain, if needed.Indefinite contract with an 80‑day trial period.NOTEThis job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job‑related instructions and to perform any other job‑related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at‑will” relationship.RECRUITING PRINCIPLESASB is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre‑employment background checks, to the maximum extent permitted by law, will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.ASB does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin in the administration of its recruiting and educational policies.Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior levelEmployment type: Full‑timeJob function: Information TechnologyIndustry: Primary and Secondary Education#J-18808-Ljbffr