Job Description
The Director of Information Technology serves as the chief technology executive for the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), providing strategic leadership and operational oversight for all information systems across Law Enforcement, Detentions, and Administrative operations. This executive position is accountable for ensuring the technology infrastructure, applications, data security, and digital systems are fully aligned with the complex mission-critical functions of HCSO, which include one of the largest jail systems in the country, over 5,000 employees, and highly regulated law enforcement operations.
Reporting directly to the Chief Deputy, the Director safeguards technology autonomy for public safety functions while maintaining collaboration with Harris County Universal Services (HCUS) and other countywide partners. The Director plays a key role in ensuring that HCSO’s infrastructure supports 24/7 operations in a secure, resilient, and scalable manner, with a deep understanding of the specialized needs of detention operations, law enforcement field technology, and forensic data systems.
Although this is an executive-level position, it will require frequent access to secure areas of the jail to support technology infrastructure, maintenance coordination, and operational continuity.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Technology Leadership
Define and execute a multi-year IT strategic plan aligned with HCSO’s operational and public safety priorities.
Lead digital modernization across the jail, patrol, investigations, and administrative systems.
Monitor trends in public safety technology, data analytics, AI, and evidence-basedpolicing to drive innovation and improved decision-making.
Operational Oversight & Performance
Ensure high availability of all technology systems that support jail operations, including Jail Management Systems (JMS), inmate services portals, biometric security, and surveillance infrastructure.
Oversee law enforcement platforms including Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), Records Management Systems (RMS), mobile computing, digital evidence systems, and body-worn camera management.
Ensure redundancy, failover, and disaster recovery plans are in place for mission-critical systems in detention and field operations.
Systems Security, Data Privacy & Risk Management
Lead efforts to maintain cybersecurity controls, prevent data breaches, and ensure 24/7 access to critical systems.
Develop policies and enforce standards for data confidentiality, Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) compliance, and secure evidence handling.
Coordinate with internal and external partners for incident response, including physical and digital threats to agency operations.
Project & Vendor Management
Serve as the executive sponsor for IT initiatives, including large-scale system upgrades, software deployments, and hardware refresh cycles.
Evaluate and oversee IT-related procurement, contract management, licensing, and third-party integrations.
Maintain effective partnerships with Harris County Universal Services and vendors while advocating for law enforcement-specific autonomy.
Law Enforcement-Specific Technology
Ensure that law enforcement applications (e.g., CAD/RMS, jail management, evidence tracking, body-worn cameras, mobile systems) meet HCSO’s operational and compliance needs.
Collaborate with operational stakeholders to support and enhance mission-critical technology and data systems.
Cybersecurity & Risk Management
Lead agency-wide strategies for information security, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
Maintain and improve defenses against cyber threats and data breaches, ensuring continuous system availability and confidentiality.
Leadership & Team Development
Build and mentor a high-performing technical team, providing direction, coaching, and professional development opportunities.
Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and excellence in service delivery.
Lead digital transformation and modernization initiatives across detention, law enforcement, and administrative units.
Promote a service-oriented culture that prioritizes user support, problem-solving, and technology reliability for deputies, detention officers, and civilian staff.
Anticipate technological trends in public safety, data integration, and analytics to support better decision-making and operational performance.
Ensure the IT team supports 24/7 operations and rotating on-call support as needed.
Operational Oversight & Performance
Oversee daily IT operations, cybersecurity, systems reliability, data integrity, and support services.
Monitor and enforce compliance with performance indicators and operational SLAs.
Establish policies and procedures for system backups, disaster recovery, and incident response.
Perform other duties as required within the scope and responsibility of the position.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or a closely related field.
Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in information technology.
At least five (5) years of experience managing technical personnel, including cross-functional teams.
Proven experience managing enterprise systems in a complex, multi-site, public sector, or mission-critical environment.
Demonstrated success leading technology in regulated sectors such as criminal justice, healthcare, or emergency services.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Advanced understanding of:
Government IT frameworks, data security, and compliance standards.
Networking, server infrastructure, and enterprise backup systems.
Law enforcement-specific platforms and confidentiality standards for sensitive data and evidence.
Strong executive communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present to senior leadership, elected officials, and stakeholders.
Ability to manage large-scale, high-impact projects under tight deadlines and evolving conditions with competing priorities.
Strong negotiation, procurement, and vendor management skills.
Critical thinker and strategic planner with a track record of innovation and implementation.
Ability to collaborate with law enforcement personnel, sworn command staff, and executive leadership.
PREFERENCES:
Master's Degree in a closely related field
Certified Information Systems Manager (CISM)
Experience in Law Enforcement technology applications
Licenses and Certifications
Valid Texas driver’s license upon hire.
Professional certifications in IT governance or security are preferred.
GENERAL INFORMATION:
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.
Work Environment & Physical Demands
This position operates primarily in a professional office setting, but frequent access to secure detention and operational areas is required to coordinate technology support, infrastructure assessments, equipment installations, and emergency response.
The role requires comfort working in controlled-access environments, including housing units, intake, control rooms, and restricted law enforcement systems areas.
The employee must be able to respond on-site in support of mission-critical systems or outages impacting jail or law enforcement operations.
Standard use of computers, phones, printers, servers, and technical equipment is required.
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work
Position Type: Appointed by the Sheriff, Civil Service Exempt - Full-time, exempt
Work Schedule: Typically, Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with availability for after-hours and on-call support as required.
Other Duties:
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Reporting Relationships:
Reports To Position: Chief Deputy
Supervises Positions: Managers
To Apply:
Meet the requirements for transfer as stated in the Harris County Sheriff's Office Manual, Section 229, and be in an active status
Complete the online job application (including employment history and education) and attach the following documents:
Copy of the most recent evaluation (front and back) attached to the application
Incomplete applications will delay the application processNote:
Submission of an application/transfer request by an employee neither implies nor ensures the transfer will be granted
Transfers will be decided based on the needs and the best interest of the HCSO
Applicant submission of Job Request Packet does not guarantee an interview
Equal Opportunity Statement
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $69,519.54 - $83,722.46 per year
Benefits:
Dental insurance
Employee discount
Flexible spending account
Health insurance
Health savings account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Parental leave
Retirement plan
Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Reporting directly to the Chief Deputy, the Director safeguards technology autonomy for public safety functions while maintaining collaboration with Harris County Universal Services (HCUS) and other countywide partners. The Director plays a key role in ensuring that HCSO’s infrastructure supports 24/7 operations in a secure, resilient, and scalable manner, with a deep understanding of the specialized needs of detention operations, law enforcement field technology, and forensic data systems.
Although this is an executive-level position, it will require frequent access to secure areas of the jail to support technology infrastructure, maintenance coordination, and operational continuity.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Technology Leadership
Define and execute a multi-year IT strategic plan aligned with HCSO’s operational and public safety priorities.
Lead digital modernization across the jail, patrol, investigations, and administrative systems.
Monitor trends in public safety technology, data analytics, AI, and evidence-basedpolicing to drive innovation and improved decision-making.
Operational Oversight & Performance
Ensure high availability of all technology systems that support jail operations, including Jail Management Systems (JMS), inmate services portals, biometric security, and surveillance infrastructure.
Oversee law enforcement platforms including Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), Records Management Systems (RMS), mobile computing, digital evidence systems, and body-worn camera management.
Ensure redundancy, failover, and disaster recovery plans are in place for mission-critical systems in detention and field operations.
Systems Security, Data Privacy & Risk Management
Lead efforts to maintain cybersecurity controls, prevent data breaches, and ensure 24/7 access to critical systems.
Develop policies and enforce standards for data confidentiality, Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) compliance, and secure evidence handling.
Coordinate with internal and external partners for incident response, including physical and digital threats to agency operations.
Project & Vendor Management
Serve as the executive sponsor for IT initiatives, including large-scale system upgrades, software deployments, and hardware refresh cycles.
Evaluate and oversee IT-related procurement, contract management, licensing, and third-party integrations.
Maintain effective partnerships with Harris County Universal Services and vendors while advocating for law enforcement-specific autonomy.
Law Enforcement-Specific Technology
Ensure that law enforcement applications (e.g., CAD/RMS, jail management, evidence tracking, body-worn cameras, mobile systems) meet HCSO’s operational and compliance needs.
Collaborate with operational stakeholders to support and enhance mission-critical technology and data systems.
Cybersecurity & Risk Management
Lead agency-wide strategies for information security, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
Maintain and improve defenses against cyber threats and data breaches, ensuring continuous system availability and confidentiality.
Leadership & Team Development
Build and mentor a high-performing technical team, providing direction, coaching, and professional development opportunities.
Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and excellence in service delivery.
Lead digital transformation and modernization initiatives across detention, law enforcement, and administrative units.
Promote a service-oriented culture that prioritizes user support, problem-solving, and technology reliability for deputies, detention officers, and civilian staff.
Anticipate technological trends in public safety, data integration, and analytics to support better decision-making and operational performance.
Ensure the IT team supports 24/7 operations and rotating on-call support as needed.
Operational Oversight & Performance
Oversee daily IT operations, cybersecurity, systems reliability, data integrity, and support services.
Monitor and enforce compliance with performance indicators and operational SLAs.
Establish policies and procedures for system backups, disaster recovery, and incident response.
Perform other duties as required within the scope and responsibility of the position.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or a closely related field.
Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in information technology.
At least five (5) years of experience managing technical personnel, including cross-functional teams.
Proven experience managing enterprise systems in a complex, multi-site, public sector, or mission-critical environment.
Demonstrated success leading technology in regulated sectors such as criminal justice, healthcare, or emergency services.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Advanced understanding of:
Government IT frameworks, data security, and compliance standards.
Networking, server infrastructure, and enterprise backup systems.
Law enforcement-specific platforms and confidentiality standards for sensitive data and evidence.
Strong executive communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present to senior leadership, elected officials, and stakeholders.
Ability to manage large-scale, high-impact projects under tight deadlines and evolving conditions with competing priorities.
Strong negotiation, procurement, and vendor management skills.
Critical thinker and strategic planner with a track record of innovation and implementation.
Ability to collaborate with law enforcement personnel, sworn command staff, and executive leadership.
PREFERENCES:
Master's Degree in a closely related field
Certified Information Systems Manager (CISM)
Experience in Law Enforcement technology applications
Licenses and Certifications
Valid Texas driver’s license upon hire.
Professional certifications in IT governance or security are preferred.
GENERAL INFORMATION:
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.
Work Environment & Physical Demands
This position operates primarily in a professional office setting, but frequent access to secure detention and operational areas is required to coordinate technology support, infrastructure assessments, equipment installations, and emergency response.
The role requires comfort working in controlled-access environments, including housing units, intake, control rooms, and restricted law enforcement systems areas.
The employee must be able to respond on-site in support of mission-critical systems or outages impacting jail or law enforcement operations.
Standard use of computers, phones, printers, servers, and technical equipment is required.
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work
Position Type: Appointed by the Sheriff, Civil Service Exempt - Full-time, exempt
Work Schedule: Typically, Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, with availability for after-hours and on-call support as required.
Other Duties:
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Reporting Relationships:
Reports To Position: Chief Deputy
Supervises Positions: Managers
To Apply:
Meet the requirements for transfer as stated in the Harris County Sheriff's Office Manual, Section 229, and be in an active status
Complete the online job application (including employment history and education) and attach the following documents:
Copy of the most recent evaluation (front and back) attached to the application
Incomplete applications will delay the application processNote:
Submission of an application/transfer request by an employee neither implies nor ensures the transfer will be granted
Transfers will be decided based on the needs and the best interest of the HCSO
Applicant submission of Job Request Packet does not guarantee an interview
Equal Opportunity Statement
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $69,519.54 - $83,722.46 per year
Benefits:
Dental insurance
Employee discount
Flexible spending account
Health insurance
Health savings account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Parental leave
Retirement plan
Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Director, Information Technology- post position is now open for candidates interested in the IT Engineer & Developer Jobs sector. This role in Houston offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in IT Engineer & Developer Jobs is a plus.
