IT Specialist I

IT Specialist I Location: Salt Lake City, UT Department: Management Information Systems (MIS) Travel: Required (seasonal, multi-state) About Challenger School Challenger School is a mission-driven educational organization focused on developing independent, productive thinkers. Our campuses rely on stable, well-documented technology systems to support classrooms, staff, and students across multiple states. About the Role The IT Specialist is a hands-on technical role supporting Challenger School campuses and corporate offices. This position combines help desk support, systems administration tasks, field installations, and technical documentation. The role requires comfort working both at a desk and on-site in classrooms, wiring closets, and offices. This role is best suited for an IT professional who values clear standards, documentation, accountability, and problem-solving in a real-world environment. Key Responsibilities *End-User & Help Desk Support - Provide Tier 1–2 support for Windows PCs, Office 365, printers, browsers, antivirus, and network access - Support staff and faculty with both routine and complex technical issues via written and verbal communication - Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, and connectivity issues in a timely manner - Escalate issues appropriately and document resolutions *Systems & Desktop Management - Install, configure, and maintain Windows desktop and server operating systems - Assist with application deployment, updates, and configuration - Support disk imaging operations and desktop configuration standards - Perform workstation provisioning, replacement, and decommissioning *Campus & Field Support - Design, coordinate, and install computer labs and staff workstations - Install and maintain peripherals, mobile devices, and phones - Respond to assigned hardware trouble tickets and coordinate vendor repairs - Support technology refresh projects across campuses *Cabling & Physical Infrastructure - Install and maintain voice and data cabling - Use wire termination and testing tools - Perform basic rack installation, cable management, and equipment mounting *Documentation & Standards - Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) - Document system configurations and support processes - Follow established MIS standards and contribute to continuous improvement *Travel & Schedule Expectations - Travel to Challenger locations in Utah, California, Nevada, Idaho, and Texas - Approximately 3–4 months of travel per year, with heavier travel during summer - Mileage and per diem reimbursement provided - After-hours and weekend work required as part of assigned responsibilities Required Qualifications - Technical training or equivalent experience (A+ or similar) - Experience supporting Windows desktop environments - Working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365 - Understanding of basic networking concepts and troubleshooting - Strong problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills - Valid driver’s license and ability to travel Preferred Qualifications - Experience with disk imaging, endpoint management, or MDM tools - Experience in education, nonprofit, or multi-site environments - Familiarity with ticketing systems and asset management tools Physical Requirements - Ability to move freely in school and office environments - Ability to lift and move IT equipment (up to approximately 40 lbs) - Comfort working in classrooms, wiring closets, and equipment rooms