Courtroom Technology Specialist

About the role

The Courtroom Technology Specialist performs complex systems work related to the design, planning, setup, programming, and maintenance of courtroom technology, video conferencing equipment, electronic presentation systems, audio streaming, and all sound system equipment and end-user devices.

The role is responsible for developing technology standards, recommending system upgrades, and providing high-level, long-term analysis of the court's IT systems and provide technical/help-desk support.

What you will do

• The Courtroom Technology Specialist is a member of the Court's Information Technology Office, reports to the IT Support Manager, and is expected to participate in ongoing training and professional development.
• The position may require lifting and moving moderately heavy items, such as computers and audiovisual equipment.
• Performing duties during non-business hours will be required.
• Representative duties are intended to illustrate the major duties and responsibilities that are performed by this position.
• Representative duties may be adjusted, and additional duties may be added, based on the operational needs of the court.
• Responsibilities of the Courtroom Technology Specialist may include but will not be limited to: Technical Support: Coordinates courtroom support activities, including audio and video components within the courtroom environment.
• Duties may include installing, supporting, and troubleshooting audiovisual equipment in court.
• Such systems include AV streamers, sound systems, and audio recording equipment.
• Programs Crestron control systems.
• Maintains working knowledge of digital recording equipment, mixers, microphones, and amplifiers.
• Responds to help desk calls and emails, and logs tickets into the IT ticketing system.
• Provides technical support and assistance, including physical hardware/software setup, configuration, and troubleshooting in a Microsoft Windows environment.
• Assists the helpdesk staff in troubleshooting and fixing technical hardware and software issues.
• Assists in the installation and maintenance of hardware, new and/or revised releases of national systems, and commercial off-the-shelf software.
• Courtroom Technology Administration: Provides training on the use of technology equipment in the courtroom.
• Provides instruction, procedural guides, and training documentation to court staff on technology techniques, applications, and equipment utilization.
• Coordinates video and teleconferences for the court.
• This may involve scheduling, troubleshooting, setting up equipment, initiating calls, and staying on hand to monitor equipment.
• Maintains contact with other Courtroom Technology Specialists throughout the Judiciary to stay knowledgeable of developments, techniques, and user programs.
• Recommends standard policies and procedures pertaining to the introduction and utilization of new courtroom technology and equipment.
• Tests and evaluates new technology prior to application in the courtroom environment.
• Property Management: Provides quality control in the sustainment and maintenance of all courtroom technology.
• Performs inventory control duties for IT equipment and supplies.
• Reports inventory additions, moves, and changes to the court's custodial officer and assists with the completion of physical inventory sightings of IT equipment.
• Assists with the procurement and accountability of all technology equipment.
• Assists with the development and eventual implementation of short- and long-range technological improvements.
• Professional Development: Participates in local and national conferences and gatherings to support continued professional development, as well as to share and learn ways of improving technology applications for federal courts.
• Collaborates with ITO staff to identify and develop technology solutions that meet the specific needs of the court and its users.
• Assists with the preparation and maintenance of IT documentation, standard operating procedures, and checklists for end users and other technicians.
• General Responsibilities: Communicate and respond to judges, chambers staff, and management requests regarding circuit courtroom technology, policies, and procedures.
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, to explain complex technological matters and concepts to individuals and groups with varying experience and backgrounds.
• Interact effectively with the public and staff, providing good customer and quality service and resolving issues efficiently while complying with regulations, rules, and procedures.
• Develop, implement, and maintain written procedures for assigned functions.
• Comply with The Guide to Judiciary Policy, applicable Administrative Office policies and procedures, internal controls guidelines, and all local policies and procedures.
• Abide by the Code of Conduct for Judicial Employees and court confidentiality requirements.
• Demonstrate sound ethics and good judgment at all times.
• Display a careful and deliberate approach in handling confidential information in a variety of contexts.

Requirements

• Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or otherwise eligible to work in the United States.
• Non-citizens may be interviewed and considered but will receive employment offers only if they qualify under an exception in 8 U.S.C.§ 1324b(a)(3)(B).
• Under that provision, a lawful permanent resident seeking citizenship may not apply until having held permanent resident status for at least five years (three years if seeking naturalization as the spouse of a U.S. citizen); once eligible, the individual must apply for citizenship within six months and complete the process within two years of applying (absent delays caused by application processors).
• Non-citizens who have not held permanent resident status for five years must execute an affidavit affirming their intent to apply for citizenship once eligible.
• The position will report to downtown Washington, DC; limited telework may be available on an ad hoc basis and/or according to agency policy.
• Employees of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit are excepted service, at-will appointees.
• Federal civil service classifications or regulations do not apply.
• All offers of employment are provisional pending successful completion of a background check or investigation and a favorable employment suitability determination.
• This position is subject to Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) for payroll deposit.

Education

Candidates must, at minimum, possess a high school diploma or equivalent.

How you will be evaluated

Applicants will be evaluated based upon review of their qualifications and the application package.

Documents you must provide

• Cover letter (no more than two pages) describing the knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or experience that qualify the applicant for this position.
• Résumé outlining educational background, employment history, and other relevant information.
• Academic transcripts for educational substitution ONLY Completed online AO-78, Federal Judicial Branch Application for Employment.
• Completion of the online testing modules.

Benefits

The candidate selected for this position will be eligible for a generous federal employee benefits package which includes: Paid vacation and sick leave, paid parental leave, and 11 paid federal holidays per year. Optional participation in Federal Employees Health Benefits plans (health, dental and vision); Federal Employees Group Life Insurance; Flexible Benefits Program.

Public transportation subsidy, on-site fitness center, Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). Optional participation in Thrift Savings Plan (up to 5% employer matched contributions).

Public Service Loan Forgiveness program pursuant to the term of the (PSLF) program. For more benefit information visit the Judiciary's Benefits Page: ***

What to expect next

Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Additional information

Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. For in-person interviews, candidates must travel at their own expense. The court reserves the right to modify the conditions of this announcement, commence interviews immediately, withdraw the announcement, or fill the position at any time, any of which actions may occur without notice.

For full posting, please visit: *** The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit is an Equal Opportunity Employer.