K–12 Cybersecurity and School Safety Specialist, Montana Safe Schools Center

The University of Montana invites applications for a K–12 Cybersecurity and School Safety Specialist for Montana Safe Schools Center (MSSC) and the University of Montana Center for Cybersecurity Workforce and Rural Policy (UM Center for Cybersecurity). The position will reside primarily within MSSC, with approximately one day per week, on average, dedicated to supporting the UM Center for Cybersecurity’s statewide cybersecurity education and outreach efforts. This position is funded for one year with continuation contingent on funding.

Cybersecurity is a fundamental component of comprehensive school safety, alongside physical security, emergency preparedness, and behavioral health. The Specialist will serve as MSSC’s dedicated point of expertise for cybersecurity and digital safety, helping Montana schools strengthen cybersecurity awareness, digital safety, and overall school safety through training, consultation, resource development, and statewide collaboration.

• Serve as MSSC’s subject-matter expert for K–12 cybersecurity and digital safety, integrating cybersecurity into comprehensive school safety planning.
• Develop and deliver training, workshops, presentations, and professional development for educators, administrators, students, and school staff.
• Lead development of cybersecurity curricula, resources, toolkits, and guidance to support Montana schools.
• Support statewide school safety initiatives, including threat assessment, emergency preparedness, prevention, and cybersecurity outreach.
• Consult with districts on cybersecurity practices, digital safety, technology risks, and staff/student awareness.
• Participate in school site assessments and help identify technology-related risks, vulnerabilities, and opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with the University of Montana Center for Cybersecurity Workforce and Rural Policy, state agencies, regional partners, and school districts to strengthen and coordinate cybersecurity and school safety efforts statewide.

• Master's degree in education, educational leadership, technology, or related field or Bachelor's degree with two (2) years of related experience.
• Experience as a K–12 teacher, counselor, or administrator.
• Demonstrated excellence in public speaking, training, or professional development delivery.
• Strong interest in cybersecurity, digital safety, and technology integration in schools.
• Ability to communicate complex concepts clearly to a variety of audiences.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently across two coordinated programs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with school safety planning, emergency operations, or threat assessment.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity concepts, digital citizenship, or technology leadership.
• Experience developing curriculum, training materials, or statewide initiatives.
• Ability to build strong relationships with schools, agencies, and community partners.

Position is full-time, 1.0 FTE, Letter of Appointment and includes a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program.

Screening of applications will begin after the closing date; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established. Complete applications received by the closing date will be guaranteed consideration.

To apply, please upload the following materials: 

• Letter of Interest – addressing the stated required skills for the position
• Detailed resume listing education and describing work experience
• Three (3) professional references - Names and contact information

The University of Montana is interested in receiving applications from people who would assist the University in demonstrating its five priorities for action: Place student success at the center of all we do; drive excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research; embody the principle of “mission first, people always"; partner with place; and proudly tell the UM story.

The Affiliation of the University of Montana (UM Affiliation) is an equal opportunity employer.  UM Affiliation does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM’s non-discrimination policy and any applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.

References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. UM partners with SkillSurvey for reference checking.  Applicants may receive emails from SkillSurvey to submit reference information. 

Testing: Individual hiring departments within the UM Affiliation may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.

Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM and all affiliated campuses, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9). The University of Montana will require proof of authorization to work in the United States before final hiring. Due to the September 19, 2025 Presidential Proclamation and related guidance from USCIS and the Department of State, the University may be limited in its ability to offer H-1B sponsorship. At this time, we are unable to sponsor new H-1B visas that require payment of the additional fee introduced by the Proclamation.