The posting
DATE: Feb 10, 2026
POSITION: Security Infrastructure Engineer
LOCATION: Technology - District Technology Office
REPORTS TO: Executive Director of Technology
SALARY: Pay Grade 82 ($6,291 - $8,275)
TERM OF EMPLOYMENT: 12 months
Effective: 5/1/2026
Position Summary
The Information Security Specialist is responsible for safeguarding the district’s technology infrastructure, data, and systems by developing, implementing, and maintaining security policies, tools, and best practices. This position monitors for threats, responds to incidents, ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, and supports secure technology operations across all K–12 schools within the district. The role requires strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of cybersecurity challenges in public education.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Cybersecurity Operations
- Monitor district networks, servers, cloud platforms, and endpoints for security alerts, anomalies, and indicators of compromise.
- Analyze logs, conduct threat assessments, and manage alerts from SIEM, firewall, endpoint protection, and email security systems.
- Lead or assist with investigations, containment, remediation, and recovery of security incidents.
- Maintain and tune security tools such as firewalls, DNS filtering, endpoint protection, vulnerability scanners, and identity security tools.
Identity & Access Management
- Manage secure user access practices across Active Directory, Azure/Entra ID, Google Workspace for Education, and district applications.
- Enforce MFA, password policies, and least-privilege access.
- Conduct regular access reviews and support account lifecycle processes.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure district compliance with NC DPI requirements, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, CIS Controls, FERPA, CIPA, and other applicable regulations.
- Conduct annual risk assessments and participate in external audits.
- Maintain documentation for policies, procedures, recovery plans, and incident response.
Security Awareness & Training
- Develop and deliver cybersecurity awareness training for staff, including phishing simulations and safe computing practices.
- Provide guidance to school administrators, technology facilitators, and support staff on secure use of district technology resources.
Systems & Network Security
- Assist in hardening servers, switches, wireless systems, cloud resources, and network infrastructure.
- Support secure configuration and patch management across district devices.
- Review and validate vendor security controls for third-party applications and integrations.
Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity
- Maintain and test data backup systems, restoration procedures, and disaster recovery plans.
- Participate in district continuity planning for critical technology services.
All other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 2–4 years of experience in IT systems, networking, cybersecurity, or related roles.
- Working knowledge of Windows Server, Active Directory, Azure/Entra ID, Google Workspace, firewalls, and basic scripting.
- Understanding of NIST CSF, CIS Controls, and K–12 security best practices.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in K–12 or public sector IT.
- Certifications such as Security+, CySA+, SSCP, CCNA Security, Microsoft Security Analyst, or equivalent.
- Experience with SIEM tools, EDR solutions, vulnerability management platforms, and cloud security.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical staff and administrators.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- High level of discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive data.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a school environment.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds, install or inspect equipment, and travel between district locations.
- Office setting with occasional on-site work in schools and data closets.
Salary & Work Schedule
- 12-month position (full-time).
- Salary based on NC public school salary schedule / district supplemental scale.
DISCLAIMERS: The above statements are intended to describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this position. They are not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and skills that may be required of the employees assigned to this position. This description may be revised by the supervisor, with HR review and approval, at any time.
Johnston County Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in the employment or promotion of employees on the basis of gender, race, religion, age, national origin or disability.
