Technical Support Specialist

About Us

The Civilization Research Institute (CRI) is a research center focused on understanding and mitigating catastrophic and existential risk. Our mission is to create and disseminate actionable knowledge and wisdom that is essential for navigating the metacrisis and to undertake research into viable future forms for global civilization.

Our work spans technology, governance, ecological tipping points, financial systems, civilization theory, and societal sense-making. The work requires analytical rigor, systems thinking, and cross‑disciplinary fluency. We operate in a high‑trust, low‑ego environment where clarity, integrity, and long‑term thinking are essential.

If you’d like a quick overview of our work, this video with our Executive Director, Daniel Schmachtenberger, is a good place to start.

About the Role

The Technical Support Specialist is responsible for the setup, maintenance, security, and troubleshooting of all physical and digital devices/technology across the organization.

Location and Reporting Relationship

• This is a full-time, on-site based out of our headquarters in Asheville, NC.
• The Technical Support Specialist will report to the Executive Director.

What You’ll Own

Physical & Digital Device Management

• Computer setup & maintenance of laptops, tablets, deep‑work machines, recording devices, printers/scanners, phones (cell and landline), smart devices, etc.
• Management of keyboards, mice, cameras, microphones, speakers, power supplies, hard drives, cable management, and other peripheral equipment
• Connectivity for ethernet, hard-wired computers, routers, extenders, cell boosters, Starlink, shortwave radio, etc.
• Ergonomic setup of monitor arms, keyboard trays, peripherals, chairs, standing desks, specialized lighting, etc.

Cybersecurity & Psychosecurity

• VPNs, secure phones, camera covers, mic blockers, Faraday boxes
• Psychosecurity systems which include app blockers, screen-time trackers, and deep‑work machines
• Security software for malware protection, identity protection, encrypted communication channels, password managers, authenticators, 2FA systems

Office Security and Safety Systems

• Smart locks, cameras, alarm systems
• Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, radon detectors, shredders and secure disposal workflows

Technical Troubleshooting & Support

• General troubleshooting for device glitches, connectivity issues, syncing problems, and settings issues after updates
• Software installation and configuration (updates, settings, user accounts on shared devices, and new applications)
• Tech support for HVAC, health tech, and other office equipment

Training & User Support

• Hands‑on guidance for employees learning new devices or software
• Creation of simple instructions, walkthroughs, and best‑practice guides

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of physical hardware, connectivity systems, and modern office technology
• Familiarity with cybersecurity tools and best practices
• Ability to troubleshoot across multiple operating systems and platforms (Apple, Google, Windows); most of the employees use Apple products.
• Excellent communication skills for training and support
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or other related subject and relevant certifications (CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, etc.)

What We Offer

• Mission‑Driven Culture Work alongside collaborative, values‑aligned colleagues tackling some of humanity’s most complex challenges
• Health & Wellness Support - Access to wellness resources designed to support your physical and mental well‑being
• Professional Growth & Development Employees receive mentorship from senior leaders and the opportunity to take on meaningful projects that support continuous learning and career advancement.
• Competitive Compensation The starting compensation is competitive and will depend on a variety of factors that include experience, education, training, certification, and location. We do not currently cap salary ranges because we value team members growing in their roles over time.
• Flexible Benefits - Full-time employees are offered flexible benefits to support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our team members.
• On-site Headquarters Perks:
  • Community events like team dinners and hikes
  • Coffee/tea station with a variety of tinctures and powders and a fully stocked pantry with healthy snacks
  • Organic, plant-based lunches and dinners prepared by in-house chef multiple times per week
  • Specialized healing equipment open to all employees (e.g., sauna, red light therapy, AI deep tissue massage machine, etc)
  • Bring your dog to work