Information Technology Specialist

Job Title: Information Technology Specialist Part-Time

Department: Pala Gaming Commission (PGC)

Reports To: IT Director

SUMMARY:

The IT Specialist will provide support for the daily operations of the Pala Gaming Commissions information systems within a secure and regulated 24/7 environment. This position offers frontline technical support, maintains desktop and network infrastructure, and assists with system and security administration. The IT Specialist ensures that all IT services operate efficiently and comply with tribal, state, federal, and NIGC requirements. This role is comparable to IT support positions in tribal gaming commissions, tribal casinos, and regulatory bodies nationwide. It requires strong troubleshooting skills, confidentiality, adherence to regulatory procedures, the ability to work in fast-paced environments, and readiness to support operations outside normal business hours when necessary.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide end-user support for desktops, laptops, printers, peripherals, and approved software.
• Install and configure hardware and software according to Commission standards.
• Assist with daily operation of the IT Department, ensuring smooth functioning of IT systems in a 24/7 regulatory environment.
• Troubleshoot hardware, software, and connectivity issues; escalate unresolved issues to the IT Director.
• Support network administration tasks including switches, routers, firewalls, VPNs, and network monitoring.
• Maintain secure network cabling infrastructure including fiber and copper systems.
• Assist in safeguarding data storage, applying proper security controls and backup procedures.
• Educate coworkers on basic computer usage and cybersecurity best practices.
• Maintain desktop standards including base OS installation, configuration, and compliance with Commission policies.
• Assist in monitoring, maintaining, and documenting network infrastructure.
• Maintain hardware and software inventory, track licensing, and document changes.
• Recommend hardware or configuration upgrades based on system performance observations.
• Support configuration and maintenance of VPN access and remote connectivity.
• Conduct or participate in access audits, user account reviews, and system log verification.
• Assist in monitoring firewalls, virus protection, and intrusion detection systems.
• Support server maintenance including performance monitoring, patching, and scheduled updates.
• Maintain system documentation for hardware, software, updates, and changes.
• Assist periodic audits to ensure data integrity and disaster recovery readiness.
• Help deploy, monitor, and update Antivirus software across client and server systems.
• Assist in writing scripts or using automation tools for spam control, monitoring, and basic tasks.
• Participate in planning discussions related to system capacity and infrastructure upgrades.
• Provide guidance and training to staff on the Commissions Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy.
• Ensure all IT systems comply with tribal gaming regulatory requirements, NIGC guidelines, and internal policies.
• Support occasional after-hours or emergency technical responses consistent with comparable 24/7 gaming environments.
• Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY REQUIREMENTS:

• None

QUALIFICATIONS KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Education/Experience and/or Training:

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must have a high school diploma or G.E.D.
• AS degree, technical certifications (CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Microsoft, Cisco), or equivalent training preferred.
• Experience supporting regulated industries, tribal gaming commissions, casinos, surveillance systems, or public-sector IT is desirable.
• Experience supporting operations requiring after-hours or emergency response preferred.
• Must be knowledgeable in Desktop Support, Networking, Systems Administration Basics, and IT Operations.
• Familiarity with Database Administration and scripting/programming concepts preferred.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-demand environment of tribal casinos and gaming commissions.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with all regulatory security procedures.
• Must be capable of troubleshooting across different hardware and software platforms commonly used in 24/7 regulated IT environments.
• Must acknowledge and agree to maintain a Drug-Free workplace (including marijuana) as a condition of employment with the Pala Band of Mission Indians. Must pass pre-employment and random drug testing during employment.

CERTIFICATES and LICENSES:

• Valid California Drivers License. Must Maintain a satisfactory driving record with the DMV.
• Must clear an extensive background check and be issued an Employee License from the Tribal Gaming Commission.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:

• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as percentages, averages, and basic technical measurements.

REASONING ABILITY:

• Ability to apply common-sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
• Ability to analyze problems and apply sound judgment consistent with IT industry best practices and regulatory expectations.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Physical Conditions:
  • While performing the duties of this job the employee is required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch, talk, see or hear.
  • Must be able to lift at least 40 lbs., consistent with duties seen in comparable gaming IT support roles.
  • Must be able to work in confined spaces such as under desks, behind racks, or within server rooms.
• Environmental Conditions:
  • Work is performed in office spaces, server rooms, and secure regulatory areas.
  • The employee may occasionally work near moderate noise levels or temperature fluctuations.
  • Must be able to adapt to fast-paced, high-security environments typical of Tribal Gaming and 24/7 operations.

INDIAN PREFERENCE:

• The Tribe affords preference in employment, to the greatest extent feasible, to Tribal Members and Indian applicants who meet the minimum job qualifications for the position. It is the responsibility of the job applicant to provide satisfactory evidence of his/her status as a member of a federally recognized tribe in order to qualify for Indian preference.