Director of Information Technology

The City of Vacaville is seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking Director of Information Technology to lead a dynamic team and shape the future of technology across the organization. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned IT professional who thrives on innovation, strategic leadership, and meaningful impact — particularly the rare opportunity to build and lead a newly established department.

As the City’s technology expert, you will guide all aspects of the IT Department, including infrastructure, networks, cybersecurity, enterprise applications, user support, project management, and GIS. You will set the vision for how technology supports City services, leading modernization efforts that enhance efficiency, strengthen security, and elevate the experience for staff and community members.

Reporting directly to the Assistant City Manager, the Director of Information Technology will serve as a trusted advisor and strategic partner, collaborating with executive leadership and departments to identify organizational needs and deliver thoughtful, cost‑effective solutions. You will oversee a talented team of professionals, manage complex budgets and contracts, and establish consistent standards, policies, and best practices for the newly formed department.

This role is ideal for a leader who excels at both long‑term strategic planning and hands‑on problem solving. If you are energized by the opportunity to build a new department, elevate citywide systems, enhance service delivery, and champion innovation, this position offers a compelling platform to make a lasting impact.

Salary Information:
$182,493 - $221,799 annually
A 2% COLA is scheduled for 11/1/2026

Benefits include:

• Medical Insurance at affordable rates – City covers up to 85% of Kaiser premium, other plans are also available
• Vision and Dental Insurance monthly premiums covered 100% by the City
• Healthcare double coverage opt‑out incentive of $3,000 per year for eligible employees
• Paid sick leave, vacation leave, thirteen holidays and two floating holidays a year
• Up to 104 hours per year of Administrative Leave
• Tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment up to $2,200 per fiscal year
• Deferred compensation plan with up to 6% City contribution available
• California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) plan enrollment and Retiree Health Savings account

The ideal candidate is a strategic, tenacious, and forward‑thinking IT executive who thrives in a fast‑paced, high‑opportunity environment. They possess deep technical expertise, exceptional leadership skills, and a strong commitment to public service. They are skilled at overseeing complex IT operations while also developing long‑term plans that modernize systems, strengthen cybersecurity, and improve efficiency.

The successful candidate will maintain current knowledge of data communications, cybersecurity best practices, network systems, audio/visual technologies and enterprise applications. Strong relationship‑building skills are essential, as the role requires close collaboration with City leadership, department heads, and external agencies. The ideal candidate will be able to:

• Provide visionary leadership and change management during the creation and launch of the new IT Department; guide the transformation of systems, workflows, staffing models, and service culture to meet the City’s evolving priorities; ensure that cutting‑edge technology and cybersecurity excellence empower the City’s mission to foster innovation and protect intellectual property.
• Lead and inspire an IT workforce, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, technical excellence, and innovation.
• Conduct strategic assessments of existing technologies, contracts, and partnerships to identify opportunities for process optimization, cost efficiency, and modernization.
• Champion the adoption and integration of emerging technologies — including artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and advanced analytics to drive innovation and operational efficiency.
• Define and execute an enterprise IT strategy aligned with organizational goals and prioritizing initiatives based on business value and risk.
• Set…