The opportunity:
Reporting to the IT Manager, the IT Specialist serves as the primary escalation point for complex technical issues and plays a key role in maintaining, optimizing, and securing the YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka’s IT infrastructure.
This role provides advanced technical support, leads system improvements, supports enterprise-wide technology initiatives and IT operations across all Association locations.
The IT Specialist will provide technical support to staff while also contributing to long-term infrastructure planning, cybersecurity initiatives, and overall systems optimization.
In this role, you will:
- Demonstrate strong support and commitment to the mission and core values of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka and the YMCA in Canada
- Demonstrate strong commitment to serving membership, facility users, and program participants
- Ensure adherence to all relevant provincial and federal legislation
- Act as the escalation point for complex support tickets from the IT Help Desk
- Perform advanced troubleshooting across desktop, server, network, and cloud environments, payment systems and related hardware.
- Lead root cause analysis for recurring system issues
- Oversee and monitor IT ticket queues to ensure service level objectives are met
- Provide advanced support for Microsoft 365, Azure Active Directory, Exchange, SharePoint, and Teams
- Support and troubleshoot VoIP systems, firewall appliances, switches, and wireless infrastructure
- Administer and maintain server environments (on-premise and cloud)
- Maintain Active Directory, group policies, user lifecycle management, and permissions governance
- Maintain and secure internet connectivity, firewall configurations, and network monitoring tools
- Ensure data integrity, security, and compliance with industry best practices
- Assist in developing and enforcing cybersecurity policies and standards
- Monitor security alerts and respond to incidents in collaboration with the IT Team and IT Manager
- Support PCI compliance initiatives and industry security standards
- Exercise strong judgment related to data privacy and security
- Co-lead implementation of new technology initiatives
- Participate in infrastructure upgrades, system migrations, and cloud adoption projects
- Develop and implement technical solutions with minimal supervision
- Troubleshoot with vendors and third-party (ISPs) service providers
- Evaluate and recommend system improvements and emerging technologies
- Work independently with minimal supervision
- Develop and maintain technical documentation, SOPs, and knowledge base articles
- Improve IT service workflows and support processes
- Maintain licensing records, hardware inventory, and asset management systems
- Provide technical training and mentorship to the IT Help Desk staff
- Provide advanced troubleshooting for product installations and configurations
- Configure and deploy computers, peripherals, and mobile devices across locations
- Provide guidance and instruction on proper use of hardware and software applications
- Support cellular device management and MDM platforms
- Perform other IT Systems and support duties as required
You bring:
- Post-Secondary education in IT, Computer Science, or related field
- MCSE and CCNA or other related certifications are an asset.
- 5+ years’ progressive experience in IT support, systems administration, or infrastructure roles
- Experience serving as Tier 2 escalation or senior technical resource
- Strong knowledge of:
- Microsoft 365 (Exchange Online, SharePoint, Teams)
- Azure Active Directory / Entra ID
- Windows Server environments
- Network infrastructure (switching, firewall, wireless systems)
- Endpoint security and reporting tools
- Familiar with PowerShell scripting and automation
- Experience with backup solutions and disaster recovery planning
- Familiarity with compliance frameworks and security standards
- Experience with IT ticketing/service desk systems
- Excellent communication skills with technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Valid Class G driver’s license and insured personal vehicle
- Willingness to participate in mandated training to be completed before or shortly after
commencement of work including:
- AODA Training
- Health & Safety Awareness Training
- Bill 168 (Violence & Harassment in the Workplace) Training
- PCI Compliance
- Child Safeguarding Orientation
- Willingness to be able to work flexible hours based on client needs
Why work for the Y:
At the YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka, we believe in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members and staff. As an IT Specialist, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of our members and the community. You will work alongside a supportive team of individuals who are committed to our mission of building healthy communities.
Perks:
- Compensation: $55,000 annual salary
- Extended Health benefits after 90 days
- Paid Wellness Days
- YMCA Health & Fitness Membership
- Pension Plan after 2 years
- Ongoing professional development opportunities
When people find a community where they belong, they shine. At the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, we believe in creating spaces where everyone belongs. In addition to a competitive salary and benefits package, we offer ongoing training and development opportunities to help you grow professionally and personally. If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career, working with a diverse team where your own ideas will be heard, then the YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka is the perfect place for you.
About us:
The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is a registered charity dedicated to building healthier, stronger communities by promoting physical, mental, and social well-being for all. We offer a wide range of inclusive and affordable programs and services to individuals and families, regardless of their background or financial situation.
Applications will remain open until filled.
This role is for an existing vacancy that is available or will be available at the time of fulfillment. We wish to express our appreciation to all applicants for their interest in this position; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is committed to fair and accessible employment practices. Our goal is a diverse, inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. Each step of our recruitment process is human-led; we do not use artificial intelligence (AI) or automated screening tools. Individuals needing employment accommodation in the hiring process or job postings in an alternative format may contact the People and Culture department at
[email protected].
In keeping with our commitment to child and youth safeguarding, job offers are contingent on the successful completion of a Police Records Check and employment reference checks. Police Records Checks are reviewed on an individual basis and the offense(s) - if any - is considered in the decision-making process in relation to the requirement of working with children, therefore not eliminating all candidates with a record from being offered a position. Police Records Checks must be renewed every three years.
