Careers

Director of Information Technology (IT)

Position Summary

The Director of Information Technology (IT) serves as the strategic and operational leader of all technology initiatives across the organization. This executive role is responsible for shaping the digital future of the agency, ensuring that technology systems, services, and partnerships are aligned with organizational goals, secure, scalable, and high-performing.

The Director will oversee a diverse portfolio of external technology vendors, managed service providers (MSPs), software-as-a-service (SaaS) platforms, and systems integrators. This position demands a forward-thinking leader with a zero-tolerance approach to mediocrity, a passion for innovation, and a commitment to operational excellence.

Core Responsibilities

Strategic IT Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive IT strategy that aligns with the organization’s mission, operational priorities, and long-term growth.

• Serve as the principal advisor to executive leadership on technology trends, digital transformation, and risk mitigation.

• Lead enterprise-wide initiatives to modernize infrastructure, enhance service delivery, and improve digital accessibility.

• Champion the adoption of emerging technologies that drive innovation, efficiency, and public value.

Technology Operations & Infrastructure

• Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of all IT systems, including network architecture, cloud platforms, enterprise applications, and data centers.

• Ensure high availability, reliability, and performance of mission-critical systems.

• Establish and enforce IT policies, procedures, and standards for system administration, data governance, and operational continuity.

• Lead the development of business continuity and disaster recovery plans to safeguard organizational resilience.

Cybersecurity & Risk Management

• Design and implement a robust cybersecurity framework that protects digital assets, sensitive data, and user privacy.

• Conduct regular risk assessments, penetration testing, and vulnerability scans to identify and remediate threats.

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including data protection laws and cybersecurity mandates.

• Lead incident response efforts and coordinate with legal, compliance, and law enforcement when necessary.

• Vendor Oversight & Accountability

• Supervise and direct multiple external technology vendors, including MSPs, SaaS providers, and systems integrators.

• Lead contract negotiations, renewals, and procurement processes to secure favorable terms and high-value partnerships.

• Enforce service-level agreements (SLAs) and monitor vendor performance using KPIs, scorecards, and regular reviews.

• Drive accountability and continuous improvement across all vendor relationships, with zero tolerance for underperformance or non-compliance.

• Ensure vendor solutions are scalable, secure, and aligned with enterprise architecture standards.

• Team Development & Organizational Culture

• Recruit, mentor, and retain a high-performing internal IT team with diverse skill sets and perspectives.

• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and innovation-driven culture within the IT department.

• Provide professional development opportunities, performance feedback, and leadership coaching to staff.

• Promote cross-departmental collaboration and knowledge sharing to maximize technology impact.

Data Strategy & Digital Services

• Oversee enterprise data management, analytics platforms, and reporting tools to support evidence-based decision-making.

• Lead initiatives to digitize services, streamline workflows, and improve user experience across internal and public-facing platforms.

• Ensure interoperability and integration of systems to support seamless data exchange and operational efficiency.

Qualifications Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field.

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive IT leadership experience, including at least 3 years in a director-level or executive role.

• Demonstrated success managing enterprise IT operations, vendor relationships, and cybersecurity programs.

• Strong negotiation skills and experience enforcing SLAs and driving vendor accountability.

• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex technology projects.

• Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills.

Preferred

Master’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or Technology Management.
Experience in public sector, nonprofit, or mission-driven organizations.
Familiarity with ITIL, COBIT, NIST, or other IT governance frameworks.
Professional certifications such as PMP, CISSP, CISM, or CGEIT.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive executive salary commensurate with experience
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance Retirement plan with employer contributions
Paid time off, holidays, and professional development support
Opportunities to lead transformative technology initiatives that impact the community

To Apply:

Submit resumes to resumes@gatewayport.com

The Plaquemines Port Harbor and Terminal District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Ferry Security Captain

SUMMARY OF JOB

Under regular supervision, performs various duties to ensure the safety and security of the Ferry Department. Work involves developing and implementing vessel and facility security plans and shipboard safety management and contingency plans; conducting annual audits of record keeping logs, vessel and facility security plans, shipboard safety management and contingency plans for vessels and facilities; overseeing and preparing all vessels and facilities for Coast Guard inspections; overseeing, setting up, and ensuring drills and exercises are conducted with proper officials and crews. Reports to the Ferry Manager.

MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE QUALIFICATIONSREQUIRED FOR ADMISSION TO EXAMINATION

Requires a minimum of 5 years of Marine Ship Security Officer or Company Security Officer experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities
Must be licensed with a 1600 Gross Ton Master license and have a certification as Radar Observer, Ship Security Officer, and Basic and Advanced Shipboard firefighting
Satisfactory physical condition, including back, vision and hearing
Must have a current Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
Must complete Section I of "49 CFR Part 40 Drug and Alcohol Testing" Form
Must attach a copy of your license, TWIC card and the 49 CFR Part 40 Form to your application
Must possess a valid Louisiana Driver's License with satisfactory records
Must be honest and exhibit good moral/ethical behavior

Must be able to report to work on the ferry landing prior to ferry operations

KIND OF EXAMINATION (ENTRANCE AND PROMOTIONAL)

This examination may consist of a written test, a rating of training and experience, an oral panel interview

or any combination thereof. Applicant must submit accurate, detailed application forms providing all requested information, including descriptions of work experience, names, and addresses of previous employers and dates employed. Qualified applicants will be notified of the time, date place of any assembled test(s) which may be given.

Applications can be downloaded at:

www.plaqueminesparish.com

APPLICATION OFFICES

Submit applications through one of the following:

Email to: civilservice@ppgov.net

Fax: 504-934-6089

In Person or Mail: use the Application Availability address

Application Availability

Belle Chasse, LA

333 F. Edward Hebert Blvd.

Belle Chasse, LABldg. 100

Suite 225 70037

(504) 934-6080

Chief Ferry Engineer

SUMMARY OF JOB

Performs the following tasks and others as assigned by Director/Supervisor:

Under limited supervision, performs skilled and specialized work for the Ferry Department. Work involves checking and starting all machinery on board the ferry; being ready for operation at the beginning of assigned shift; checking steering fluids, oil, water, and fuel levels; verifying steering equipment, radar, radio, etc. are in working condition; inspecting firefighting equipment, bow thruster and main engines throughout assigned shift; making adjustments to landing dock ramps so vehicles can enter and exit with ease when necessary; taking on fuel and water when needed; changing filters on engines when needed; and maintaining a log of such. Reports to the Ferry Captain III.

Minimum acceptable qualifications REQUIRED for admission TO examination

Requires a High School Diploma or GED supplemented by three to four years' experience in engine work; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience, which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.
Must have a United States Coast Guard Chief Engineer license with a minimum of 3000 horsepower OR a Chief Engineer of Motor Ferry Vessels of 3000 horsepower or less operated by Governmental bodies license, or Chief Engineer limited Oceans or Near Coastal license.
Satisfactory physical condition, including back, vision and hearing
Must have a current Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
Must complete Section I of"49 CFR Part 40 Drug and Alcohol Testing'' Form
Must attach a copy of your United States Coast Guard license as mentioned above. Also, attach a copy of your TWIC card and the 49 CFR Part 40 Form to your application
Must possess a valid Louisiana Driver's License with satisfactory records
Must be honest and exhibit good moral/ethical behavior
Must be able to report to work on the ferry landing prior to ferry operations

KIND OF EXAMINATION (ENTRANCE AND PROMOTIONAL)

This examination may consist of a written test, a rating of training and experience, an oral panel interview or any combination thereof. Applicant must submit accurate, detailed application forms providing all requested information, including descriptions of work experience, names, and addresses of previous employers and dates employed. Qualified applicants will be notified of the time, date place of any assembled test(s) which may be given.