Job Description

About OptimaEd:

At OptimaEd, we believe education should be more than a process—it should be a journey of discovery, empowerment, and possibility. That’s why we’re transforming the way the world learns by harnessing the power of immersive technology.

Imagine a world where every student, no matter their background, has access to dynamic immersive coursework, awe-inspiring virtual field trips, and a rich VR content library that makes learning come alive. At OptimaEd, we’re making that vision a reality.

We combine the timeless brilliance of a classical liberal arts and sciences education with groundbreaking technology to create experiences that don’t just teach—they ignite. Whether it’s exploring ancient civilizations, stepping into the heart of a science experiment, or discovering a passion for entrepreneurship, we empower learners to dream bigger and reach higher.

This isn’t just about education—it’s about expanding minds, opening doors, and making the extraordinary accessible to every family, everywhere. Together, we’re reimagining what’s possible, because when we innovate, we inspire.

The Opportunity:

Join OptimaEd, the leader in VR education and the company behind Optima Academy Online, a Yass Prize Semifinalist, as Director of Technology. This position is responsible for overseeing the technological strategies and technology operations within the organization. The role involves managing the implementation of technology solutions, driving innovation, and ensuring the efficient and effective use of technology to support the organization's goals and objectives.

The position:

We are seeking an experienced IT Director to lead our technology strategy and operations with a deep understanding of the unique needs of K–12 education. Candidates with a proven track record in public school districts or education service agencies are strongly encouraged to apply. Experience with key education technology platforms—particularly Canvas and Genius —is highly valued, as these tools are central to our instructional delivery and student management. Your ability to align technology systems with teaching, learning, and operational goals will be instrumental in driving our mission forward. While this is a remote position our ideal candidate must live in Naples, FL or the surrounding areas.

The director of technology’s essential duties and responsibilities are as follows:

Essential Duties:

Technology Operations Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day technology operations, ensuring stability, reliability, and security of systems and infrastructure.

• Manage the organization's technology budget, resource allocation, and vendor relationships.

• Develop and enforce technology policies, standards, and procedures.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Lead a team of technology professionals, providing guidance, coaching, and performance management.

• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, customer service, and continuous learning within the technology department.

• Identify skills gaps and develop training programs to enhance the team’s technical expertise.

Project Management:

• Plan, execute, and monitor technology projects, ensuring timely delivery within budget and scope.

• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to align technology initiatives with business requirements.

• Mitigate risks and resolve issues that arise during project implementation.

Security and Risk Management:

• Develop and implement robust security measures to protect the organization's data and information systems.

• Stay updated on emerging security threats and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and industry standards.

• Establish disaster recovery and business continuity plans to minimize technology-related disruptions.

Stakeholder Management:

• Collaborate with executive leadership to align technology strategies with business goals and objectives.

• Communicate effectively with stakeholders, providing regular updates on technology initiatives and performance.

• Build strong relationships with internal teams, external partners, and vendors to support technological needs.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in a senior technology leadership role, preferably within a complex organization.

• Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Administration, Management, or related discipline preferred. Advanced certifications are a plus.

• Hands-on experience with the Genius Student Information System and additional SISs.

• Hands-on experience with Instructure Learning Management System, Canvas, and additional education industry LMSs.

• Extensive experience with commercial and consumer network technologies and operations.

• Project management expertise with a track record of successful project delivery.

• Strong knowledge of technology trends, systems architecture, software development methodologies, and IT operations.

• Demonstrated experience in developing and executing technology strategies that drive business outcomes.

• Excellent leadership skills with the ability to build and motivate high-performing teams.

• In-depth understanding of cybersecurity, risk management, and compliance.

• Strong business acumen and the ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Additional Qualifications

• Analytical mindset and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to demonstrate, uphold, and promote in daily interactions a commitment to OptimaEd’s mission and vision, and the moral character and civic virtue the organization embodies.

• Employment contingent upon a clear fingerprint and criminal history record.

• Must have a valid driver’s license.

• Excellent communication skills

• Reliable transportation is required; travel required.

Working Conditions:

• Remote worker

• In-office meetings when necessary

• Frequent travel

• Travel is required, and overnight stay is expected. 

• This position may require occasional lifting of supplies, up to 20 pounds.

• Vision: Visual acuity adequate to perform job duties, including reading information from printed sources and computer screens.

• This is a full-time position; however, this position can regularly require long hours and occasional weekend work.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job:

• This position may require occasional lifting of supplies, up to 20 pounds.

• Vision: Visual acuity adequate to perform job duties, including reading information from printed sources and computer screens.

• This is a full-time position; however, this position can regularly require long hours and occasional weekend work.

Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job.  Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

The organization is an equal-opportunity employer. The organization is committed to providing equal opportunity for all individuals in all areas of recruitment, selection, placement, training, assignment, transfer, compensation, benefits, discipline, retention, and promotion. The board commits itself to the policy that there shall be no unlawful discrimination against any person because of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, or disability. All decisions with regard to employment shall be in compliance with applicable state and federal laws.

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