Overview

The IT or “Technology Division” of the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is the central technology provider for the Sheriff’s Office. It supports both internal operations and public-safety-critical systems.

Key Responsibilities & Areas of Operation

From the job posting for “Technology Specialist,” which describes the role in the Technology Division, the following are among its main duties:

• Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD): Supporting the dispatch system, which is critical for emergencies.

• Enterprise Solutions: That is, agency-wide software systems.

• Technology Infrastructure and Integration: Including networks, servers, workstations, etc.

• Information Security: Ensuring systems are secure against threats.

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Mapping and spatial data support.

• Detention Systems: IT support related to the jail / detention center.

• Computer / Telecommunications Support: Hardware, software, firmware updates, mobile devices, etc.

• In-car and body-worn camera systems

They also maintain:

• Antivirus on workstations

• Backup procedures

• Shared storage systems

• Inventory of electronic devices (laptops, mobile devices, workstations)

There is involvement in website administration and also in recommending budget items for technology.

Challenges / Importance

While not always spelled out explicitly, implications from the duties show that:

• The IT Division supports mission-critical systems (dispatch, 911, detention) so high reliability and uptime are required.

• Data security, backups, and patching are vital to ensure continuity and prevent breaches.

• There is a need to coordinate with external entities (telephone companies, mapping / GIS authorities, other public safety agencies) especially in shared or integrated systems (e.g. 911).

• Inventory and lifecycle management of technology assets is a regular task.