Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo
Operations IT Specialist
Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, United States, 14266
JOB SUMMARY
The Operations IT Specialist
(OITS) is a member of the Operations Team and reports to the Associate
Vice President of Administrative Operations (AVPOA). The OITS plays an important role in supporting
the work of the Operations function as it is critical to the strategic design, implementation and
monitoring of technology systems for the Foundation. The position is a multi-faceted role that involves
both supporting internal IT operations and the development and improvement of business processes.
This role will require a complete understanding of the company's technological infrastructure while
being the main bridge between internal teams and the external Managed Service Providers (MSP).
The OITS will help ensure operational excellence of the organization by optimizing the Foundation’s
business processes, information technology and systems, as well as ensuring operational support to
the Foundation’s Function and Cross-Function Teams. The OITS provides leadership, training and
guidance to team members throughout the Foundation for the team to remain up-to-date and
effectively utilize the latest business process and IT advancements.
The OITS will work closely with the Associate Vice President of Administrative Operations and the
Operations Efficiency Manager to support the Foundation teams in three main areas where operational
excellence is desired:
Information and Technology Systems
Business Process Management
Risk Management
For an individual to be successful in the position, they must have experience in all areas. This is
especially true with IT support since the technology function is part of the Operations team.
Additionally, The OITS must have excellent organizational skills as they are responsible for several
administrative duties across several function and project teams within the Foundation. They must have
the ability to work both independently and in a team environment, have excellent interpersonal and
communications skills, and be able to assess troubleshooting and solve problems. The OITS is
responsible for supporting training and guidance to ensure that all personnel are thoroughly familiar
with all policies and procedures, processes, and IT advancements administered by the Operations
team.
This role is critical to the Community Foundation’s mission of connecting people, ideas and resources
to improve lives in Western New York and our vision of a vibrant and inclusive Greater Buffalo region
with opportunity for all where every individual thrives.
AREAS OF KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Operations IT Specialist monitors the effectiveness and efficiency of the business systems which
allow the Foundation’s teams to implement the organization’s strategy. The Operations function is
also responsible for providing the Foundation’s Function and Project Teams with the resources,
infrastructure and support needed to perform their roles in a proficient and optimized manner. The
OITS systematically provides ongoing monitoring of all the Foundation’s technology policies and
procedures to ensure they are functioning as designed.
Business Process Management:
The Operations IT Specialist has a responsibility to design, implement and monitor the Foundation’s
business processes in a collaborative manner through cross-function teams. The business processes
include developing and documenting policies, procedures and training programs throughout the
Foundation.
Information and Technology Systems:
The OITS supports the AVPAO in the management of all information and technology systems in use at
the Foundation. These information and technology systems include, but are not limited to, the
following: desktops, laptops, local area network, various cloud-based platforms, software, wireless
access points, internet, conference room video conferencing equipment and platforms, and
telephone. OITS supports the AVPAO to design, implement and monitor the Foundation’s IT
processes and associated policies and procedures. The OITS also develops individualized training
programs to ensure all Foundation personnel develop deep expertise with the tools and applications
necessary to perform their roles.
In this role, the OITS not only supports the AVPAO, but also works closely with the Operations
Efficiency Manager, IT consultant, technology providers and Foundation team members to ensure
that processes, training, methodologies, procedures and tools are in place that will prevent, detect,
document and counter threats to digital and non-digital information in a manner so that the
Foundation’s information is kept protected, confidential and available (as needed). As part of this
responsibility, the duties include Infrastructure Management, Vendor Liaison, Technical
Troubleshooting, System Monitoring, Project Management, Documentation, Training & Support and
Continuous Improvement
Risk Management:
The OITS is an important member of the Foundation’s cross functional risk management team. The
oversight and minimization of risk is accomplished through various risk assessments and the
reduction of exposure through gap analysis and the Foundation’s control environment. The risk gaps
identified are mitigated through various methods, and especially through the effective design and
implementation of effective business processes. A critical aspect of the mitigation of risk also
includes the implementation and oversight of IT security protocols and controls.
Additional responsibilities as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Certifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business Operations, or a
related field required.
• Advanced degree (MBA, MIS) or certifications (e.g., PMP, CompTIA, Lean Six Sigma, Microsoft
365/Azure) preferred.
Experience
• 5–7 years of professional IT experience, including user support, systems administration, and
hands-on troubleshooting.
• At least 3 years of experience in business process improvement, IT operations, or
organizational change management.
• Direct experience working with or managing a Managed Service Provider (MSP) or similar
vendor relationships.
• Demonstrated experience managing cloud transitions, hybrid environments, and system
integrations.
• Proven track record of leading technology-related training, documentation, and user
enablement.
Technical Skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365, SharePoint, Teams, Exchange Admin, and related tools.
• Working knowledge of Windows Server environments, Server and storage management, user
account management, and desktop support.
• Experience with Line of Business application support
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (specifically Microsoft Azure), cybersecurity practices, and
network management.
• Experience with LAN/WAN support (including interface with telecommunication providers)
• Familiarity with infrastructure application support (Exchange, SharePoint, Citrix, VMWare, etc.)
• Experience using IT ticketing systems and documenting support processes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with ability to explain technical concepts to
non-technical users.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and
priorities.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
• Demonstrated ability to lead training, write procedures, and contribute to IT policy
development.
• Preferred: Knowledge of scripting/reporting tools such as PowerShell, SQL Reporting Services,
or Crystal Reports.
• Preferred: Experience with VOIP systems, video conferencing technology (e.g., Zoom Rooms),
and telephony integration.
Salary Range: $75,000 - $80,000
ABOUT THE FOUNDATION:
For more than a century, the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo has enhanced and
encouraged long-term philanthropy in the Western New York Community. A 501 (c)(3) organization,
the Community Foundation’s mission is: Connecting people, ideas and resources to improve lives in
Western New York. Established in 1919, the Community Foundation has made the most of the
generosity of individuals, families, foundations and organizations who entrust charitable assets to the
Community Foundation’s care.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Community foundations are designed to grow and evolve as our community’s needs change, and new
positions are regularly created as a result. As the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo
continues to grow, we’re looking for talented people who want to use their abilities to make a lasting
difference. If that is you, then please also attach a cover letter explaining your interest in this position and
what you would bring to the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo.
Application deadline: September 3, 2025.
We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only
those selected for an interview will be contacted. The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo is an
equal opportunity employer that values diversity, practices inclusion and works to advance equity
The Operations IT Specialist
(OITS) is a member of the Operations Team and reports to the Associate
Vice President of Administrative Operations (AVPOA). The OITS plays an important role in supporting
the work of the Operations function as it is critical to the strategic design, implementation and
monitoring of technology systems for the Foundation. The position is a multi-faceted role that involves
both supporting internal IT operations and the development and improvement of business processes.
This role will require a complete understanding of the company's technological infrastructure while
being the main bridge between internal teams and the external Managed Service Providers (MSP).
The OITS will help ensure operational excellence of the organization by optimizing the Foundation’s
business processes, information technology and systems, as well as ensuring operational support to
the Foundation’s Function and Cross-Function Teams. The OITS provides leadership, training and
guidance to team members throughout the Foundation for the team to remain up-to-date and
effectively utilize the latest business process and IT advancements.
The OITS will work closely with the Associate Vice President of Administrative Operations and the
Operations Efficiency Manager to support the Foundation teams in three main areas where operational
excellence is desired:
Information and Technology Systems
Business Process Management
Risk Management
For an individual to be successful in the position, they must have experience in all areas. This is
especially true with IT support since the technology function is part of the Operations team.
Additionally, The OITS must have excellent organizational skills as they are responsible for several
administrative duties across several function and project teams within the Foundation. They must have
the ability to work both independently and in a team environment, have excellent interpersonal and
communications skills, and be able to assess troubleshooting and solve problems. The OITS is
responsible for supporting training and guidance to ensure that all personnel are thoroughly familiar
with all policies and procedures, processes, and IT advancements administered by the Operations
team.
This role is critical to the Community Foundation’s mission of connecting people, ideas and resources
to improve lives in Western New York and our vision of a vibrant and inclusive Greater Buffalo region
with opportunity for all where every individual thrives.
AREAS OF KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Operations IT Specialist monitors the effectiveness and efficiency of the business systems which
allow the Foundation’s teams to implement the organization’s strategy. The Operations function is
also responsible for providing the Foundation’s Function and Project Teams with the resources,
infrastructure and support needed to perform their roles in a proficient and optimized manner. The
OITS systematically provides ongoing monitoring of all the Foundation’s technology policies and
procedures to ensure they are functioning as designed.
Business Process Management:
The Operations IT Specialist has a responsibility to design, implement and monitor the Foundation’s
business processes in a collaborative manner through cross-function teams. The business processes
include developing and documenting policies, procedures and training programs throughout the
Foundation.
Information and Technology Systems:
The OITS supports the AVPAO in the management of all information and technology systems in use at
the Foundation. These information and technology systems include, but are not limited to, the
following: desktops, laptops, local area network, various cloud-based platforms, software, wireless
access points, internet, conference room video conferencing equipment and platforms, and
telephone. OITS supports the AVPAO to design, implement and monitor the Foundation’s IT
processes and associated policies and procedures. The OITS also develops individualized training
programs to ensure all Foundation personnel develop deep expertise with the tools and applications
necessary to perform their roles.
In this role, the OITS not only supports the AVPAO, but also works closely with the Operations
Efficiency Manager, IT consultant, technology providers and Foundation team members to ensure
that processes, training, methodologies, procedures and tools are in place that will prevent, detect,
document and counter threats to digital and non-digital information in a manner so that the
Foundation’s information is kept protected, confidential and available (as needed). As part of this
responsibility, the duties include Infrastructure Management, Vendor Liaison, Technical
Troubleshooting, System Monitoring, Project Management, Documentation, Training & Support and
Continuous Improvement
Risk Management:
The OITS is an important member of the Foundation’s cross functional risk management team. The
oversight and minimization of risk is accomplished through various risk assessments and the
reduction of exposure through gap analysis and the Foundation’s control environment. The risk gaps
identified are mitigated through various methods, and especially through the effective design and
implementation of effective business processes. A critical aspect of the mitigation of risk also
includes the implementation and oversight of IT security protocols and controls.
Additional responsibilities as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Certifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business Operations, or a
related field required.
• Advanced degree (MBA, MIS) or certifications (e.g., PMP, CompTIA, Lean Six Sigma, Microsoft
365/Azure) preferred.
Experience
• 5–7 years of professional IT experience, including user support, systems administration, and
hands-on troubleshooting.
• At least 3 years of experience in business process improvement, IT operations, or
organizational change management.
• Direct experience working with or managing a Managed Service Provider (MSP) or similar
vendor relationships.
• Demonstrated experience managing cloud transitions, hybrid environments, and system
integrations.
• Proven track record of leading technology-related training, documentation, and user
enablement.
Technical Skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365, SharePoint, Teams, Exchange Admin, and related tools.
• Working knowledge of Windows Server environments, Server and storage management, user
account management, and desktop support.
• Experience with Line of Business application support
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (specifically Microsoft Azure), cybersecurity practices, and
network management.
• Experience with LAN/WAN support (including interface with telecommunication providers)
• Familiarity with infrastructure application support (Exchange, SharePoint, Citrix, VMWare, etc.)
• Experience using IT ticketing systems and documenting support processes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with ability to explain technical concepts to
non-technical users.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and
priorities.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
• Demonstrated ability to lead training, write procedures, and contribute to IT policy
development.
• Preferred: Knowledge of scripting/reporting tools such as PowerShell, SQL Reporting Services,
or Crystal Reports.
• Preferred: Experience with VOIP systems, video conferencing technology (e.g., Zoom Rooms),
and telephony integration.
Salary Range: $75,000 - $80,000
ABOUT THE FOUNDATION:
For more than a century, the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo has enhanced and
encouraged long-term philanthropy in the Western New York Community. A 501 (c)(3) organization,
the Community Foundation’s mission is: Connecting people, ideas and resources to improve lives in
Western New York. Established in 1919, the Community Foundation has made the most of the
generosity of individuals, families, foundations and organizations who entrust charitable assets to the
Community Foundation’s care.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Community foundations are designed to grow and evolve as our community’s needs change, and new
positions are regularly created as a result. As the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo
continues to grow, we’re looking for talented people who want to use their abilities to make a lasting
difference. If that is you, then please also attach a cover letter explaining your interest in this position and
what you would bring to the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo.
Application deadline: September 3, 2025.
We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only
those selected for an interview will be contacted. The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo is an
equal opportunity employer that values diversity, practices inclusion and works to advance equity