IT/OT Systems Support Specialist

Waynesville, North Carolina, The IT/OT Systems Support Specialist helps ensure the cooperative’s information technology, operational technology, and communication systems are efficient, reliable, secure, and cost-effective. This role provides day-to-day support for company users and technology environments, including computers, servers, network devices, software, and IT/OT security systems. The specialist works with departments and employees to understand their needs, resolve technology issues, and maintain systems that support safe, effective business operations. The specialist monitors, maintains, and troubleshoots computer hardware, operating systems, business applications, servers, network equipment, and related infrastructure. Responsibilities include installing and configuring equipment and software, managing system updates, supporting user accounts and access, documenting configurations and service activities, and coordinating repairs or vendor support as needed. The role also assists with IT/OT security practices, such as maintaining security tools, supporting access controls, identifying potential vulnerabilities, and escalating suspected incidents according to established procedures. A key part of the position is proactively engaging with departments and employees to identify current and emerging technology needs. The specialist gathers feedback, evaluates how systems are being used, and helps recommend practical improvements that align with the cooperative’s security requirements, operational priorities, and budget. They communicate technical information in a clear, helpful manner and provide guidance that enables employees to use systems effectively and securely. The role provides responsive user support by diagnosing and resolving hardware, software, connectivity, and access problems, prioritizing requests according to urgency and business impact. It may include supporting communications systems and assisting with technology projects, equipment deployments, system testing, and continuity or recovery activities. The specialist collaborates with coworkers, department representatives, and service providers to maintain dependable service and minimize disruption. Success in this role requires sound technical judgment, a service-oriented approach, attention to security and documentation, and the ability to balance immediate support needs with long-term system reliability. Duties may evolve with the cooperative’s technology environment and operational requirements. Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, information systems, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Experience supporting computer hardware, operating systems, business software, servers, and network devices. Familiarity with IT security principles, access controls, patching, endpoint protection, and security incident escalation. Ability to troubleshoot technical problems, prioritize service requests, and communicate solutions clearly to users with varying levels of technical experience. Strong customer service, organization, documentation, and collaboration skills. Ability to gather user and departmental needs and recommend practical, secure, and cost-effective technology improvements. Willingness to learn and support operational technology and communications systems in accordance with established procedures. Ability to work independently and collaboratively while maintaining confidentiality and following security policies.