IT Manager

Position Overview:

NWIFC is seeking qualified candidates for the full-time, exempt role of IT Manager. This position is integral to the Administration team and will focus on building and maintaining a secure, modern and sustainable technology environment that supports the NWIFC and its member tribes.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership and Supervision

• Supervise and mentor the Web Administrator and Applications/Database Developer, planning cross-training and documentation practices to preserve institutional knowledge across the team.
• Develop and manage the IT budget to include lifecycle replacement and modernization investments.
• Oversee helpdesk processes, service delivery standards and escalation paths. Ensure effective and clear boundaries are followed across IT functions.
• Work with management and key staff to both understand their specific needs and to share benefits of new technologies, applications, or policies.

Infrastructure and Security Oversight

• Manage on-premises and cloud infrastructure, including servers, networks, data storage and cybersecurity controls.
• Maintain and test business continuity disaster recovery and data backup strategies regularly.
• Monitor cybersecurity posture and act proactively on identified risks.

Custom Application Stewardship

• Hold responsibility for long-term stewardship of NWIFC custom applications that are mission-critical to both the organization and member tribes.
• Maintain deep understanding of system architecture, functionality, and interdependencies
• Provide backup programming support for development work in Java and Vaadin, including SQL database queries and management.
• Assess and mitigate risks related to institutional knowledge loss.

Operational Support and Vendor Management

• Serve as backup to the Web Administrator and Applications/Database Developer for IT support services (not primary helpdesk).
• Be available on-call for critical IT emergencies when off-site.
• Manage relationships with technology vendors, cloud providers, consultants, and external developers.
• Negotiate SaaS contracts and oversee IT service agreements.

IT Strategy and Modernization

• Stay current on emerging technologies and assess their relevance to NWIFC.
• Work with department heads to understand needs, and support goals and organizational priorities.
• Develop and implement an IT modernization roadmap aligned with organizational priorities.
• Review the custom application portfolio for opportunities to retire redundant systems or adopt alternatives.
• Establish IT governance practices that support long-term sustainability.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in information Technology, Computer Science and Information Systems, or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Six (6) years of progressive IT experience.

Two (2) years of supervisory or leadership experience.

Experience managing IT infrastructure in a multi-user environment.

Experience with infrastructure modernization, cloud services, cybersecurity, and enterprise applications.

Experience with relational databases, database development, and system integrations.

Experience with custom application management, including maintenance, documentation, and long-term planning.

Experience managing vendors and technology contracts.

Strong organizational, project management, and communication skills.

Able to explain technical concepts clearly to leadership and non-technical staff.

Preferred Qualifications:

Hands-on experience with custom application development, deployment, and architectural planning.

Proficiency with Java, Vaadin, Linux, VMware, Microsoft Windows including Windows Server, Microsoft SQL, and related database technologies.

Familiarity with web technologies and web-based application environments.

Familiarity with Artificial Intelligence and its potential workplace applications.

Knowledge of tribal governments and/or fisheries.

Why NWIFC?

Joining NWIFC means being part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to serving the treaty tribes of Western Washington. Our work is guided by the member tribes’ commitment to protect natural resources for the next seven generations. We have a 50-year history of providing direct support to the treaty tribes.

This role offers the chance to contribute to impactful work in a collaborative environment that values innovation, cultural sensitivity, and professional growth. NWIFC shares the values of the tribal communities it serves, including prioritizing culture, and the preservation of traditions.

Application Process:

We encourage you to apply by completing the Application for Information Technology Manager. Here you can view the full job description IT Manager Job Description. If you have any questions or need further assistance throughout the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to Lola at lridgley@nwific.org. We’re here to help and look forward to hearing from you!

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S., as we are unable to sponsor work visas.

The Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission operates under a PL 93-638 contract and applies an Indian Preference policy in employment.

NWIFC is committed to building an inclusive team that reflects the communities we serve, and we strongly encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

A few of our employee benefits:

Low cost options for medical and vision coverage

Employer paid dental coverage, life insurance, long term and short term disability.

Flexible spending account options

Retirement eligibility at 6 mos of employment, including a 5% employer contribution.

Employee Assistance Program free to staff and families

Earned annual leave and sick leave

15 Holidays to spend with family and friends