Innovation Strategist (Information Technology)

VILLAGE OF SCHAUMBURG

Human Resources Department

101 Schaumburg Court,Schaumburg, IL 60193

http://www.schaumburg.com/

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE POSITION OF:

Innovation Strategist (Information Technology)

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Interviews will be conducted as applications are received. This position will remain open until filled.

STARTING SALARY RANGE: $93,031.00-$103,497.00annually dependent on qualifications.The salary range for this position is$93,031.00-$134,895.00

Please attach as part of your application all necessary documents verifying that you meet the minimum qualifications for the position.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Innovation Strategist leads the exploration, design, and implementation of forward-thinking ideas, business models, and processes to improve the experience of residents, businesses, and visitors. Working with a high level of independence, this role fosters a culture of creativity, cross-department collaboration, and continuous improvement aligned with the Village's strategic goals. Blending modern technologies with human-centered design and facilitation methods, the Innovation Strategist uncovers efficiency opportunities, develops value-driven solutions, and builds strong cases for change. The role works closely with executive leadership to address complex, high-impact challenges and plays a key part in transitioning ideas from concept to execution. Beyond project launch, the strategist supports implementation, ensures a smooth handoff to operational teams, and monitors results to guide refinements. This is a highly collaborative, on-site role that engages with leaders, staff, and external stakeholders across the organization.

JOB DUTIES:

1. Identifies, designs, and implements innovative concepts, initiatives, and process improvements that address local government challenges with forward-thinking solutions.
2. Partners with departments to assess current practices and operational needs, leading efforts to modernize, enhance, or replace systems and workflows.
3. Champions organizational innovation by promoting a culture of continuous improvement and supporting strategic change initiatives.
4. Supports the full technology project lifecycle, from ideation to execution, helping apply data-driven strategies and integrate solutions with staff workflows.
5. Serves as a subject matter expert on trends, tools, and strategies used by peer organizations in the public and private sectors.
6. Utilizes data analytics and business intelligence tools to create actionable insights, track performance, and measure outcomes through clear metrics and key performance indicators.
7. Advises on and supports technology-related change management strategies, ensuring smooth transitions and staff readiness.
8. Facilitates cross-functional teams through ideation, business case development, implementation planning, and organizational alignment.
9. Supports implementation and transition efforts by coordinating handoffs, documentation, and knowledge transfer to operational teams for sustained success.
10. Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Bachelor's degree in information technology, public administration, business, organizational development, or a related field.
2. A minimum of three years of experience in a business/systems/process analyst role, project management role, or change management role that required implementing new business processes, technology, and/or innovative solutions that have significant operational, technical, and strategic impact.
3. Professional certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) are highly desirable.
4. Proficiency with current computer technology, job-specific software, and customer service systems.

BENEFITS:

The Village of Schaumburg has a competitive benefit package with coverage that begins on the first day of employment and includes: flexible benefit Section 125 plan including health, dental, vision, and life insurance as well as medical and dependent care flexible spending accounts, and a retirement plan through the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund. The Village also provides paid holidays, paid vacation, sick leave, tuition reimbursement, succession development, and more.

ABOUT THE VILLAGE OF SCHAUMBURG:

The village employs approximately 600 employees in 12 departments, including police, fire, engineering and public works, communications, community development, cultural services, economic development, finance, general government, human resources, information technology, and transportation. Our employees work to serve the residents and strive to make Schaumburg the best community it can be.

Our Core Values are the heart and soul of how we operate. Customer service, integrity, respect, teamwork, and trust are the values we dedicate ourselves to with the goal of providing excellent services and programs to meet the needs of our community and those within our organization. They guide our actions and serve as the framework for the decisions and contributions we make every day - at every level. Each member of the Schaumburg team is valued, belongs and provides essential services to the residents, visitors, and businesses of Schaumburg. We are proud of the rich diversity of the Schaumburg community, and we want employees to bring their own unique capabilities, experiences, and characteristics to their work in serving the community. The characteristics of humility, empathy, respect, and open-mindedness are cornerstones of our organizational culture. The success of the village depends on our employees, and we are committed to helping employees continue growing and developing in their careers.

SELECTION PROCESS:

The candidate screening process may consist of an application review, skills testing, employability assessment, interviews, and other job-related testing or verifications. Chosen candidates will be subject to background checks and a criminal history investigation. The top candidate will need to successfully complete the post-offer qualifying pre-employment medical examination and drug screen (including cannabis).

Individuals requesting reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act to complete the application process should contact the Human Resources Department at 847-923-3900.

THE VILLAGE OF SCHAUMBURG IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER