HEO - Courtroom Technology Engineer

1. Operating Environment

The long-term strategic vision for the future of the Courts Service sets out the 10-year plan to 2030 to re-design services around court users, leveraging digital technology to streamline services and ultimately delivering a modern court system. This is an exciting time to be a member of Courts Service staff and be part of our evolving and modernising journey.

2. THE ROLE

Technology is a key enabler for the administration of justice in Ireland, as it underpins almost all processes in the Courts Service. Within the courtrooms, it is used to support and deliver services to the judiciary, staff and users of the court, such as providing mechanisms for the digital display of evidence, creation and playback of audio recordings of proceedings, and enabling the capability for remote court hearings through the provision of enterprise video conferencing and audiovisual solutions.

Courtroom Technology Engineer role reports to the Head of Courtroom Technology and is responsible for delivering implementation and maintenance of complex and highly critical ICT and advanced audiovisual services across the nationwide estate of over 200 courtrooms. This includes managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders, leading a blended team of technicians and AV specialists, the operation of good AV and technical support practices, and associated team and budget coordination.

The Courtroom Technology Engineer role is both technical and business facing and is seen as a critical solutions expert whilst inputting into operational and strategic organisational decisions.

Technology Leadership

·     This role has national responsibility covering all Courts Service sites nationwide.

·     Contribute to the design and development of enterprise level AV solutions for courtrooms, meeting rooms, auditoriums, digital signage and collaboration spaces.

·     Coordinate and maintain AV systems reference architecture including, hardware software and network integration ensuring compliance with industry standards including AVIXA and Courts Service ICT Security policies.

·     Operate on AV technologies, including SIP and WebRTC based video conferencing (Poly, Logitech, Pexip, MS Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex), AV control systems (Extron, AMX, Crestron) and digital signal processing (Biamp, Symetrix, Extron)

·     Contribute to the evaluation of software solutions for seamless integration with Courtroom technology estate delivering functionality, scalability, security, interoperability with existing AV and ICT infrastructure/solutions.

·     Contribute to the configuration of sound systems design, with expertise in networked audio systems and knowledge of AV-over-IP protocols (Dante)

·     Ensure AV solutions align with business objectives, user experience and ICT infrastructure standards.

·     Contribute to AV technology roadmaps, ensuring scalability, security and innovation and including emerging AV technologies including AI-powered AV and smart meeting room automation.

·     Effectively operate across a programme of inflight projects and supporting resources.

·     Deliver technologies and experiences to support the adoption of AV tools & technologies across the Organisation and within a transforming operational environment.

·     Contribute to the development and adoption of ICT governance and ICT policies & procedures to improve operational effectiveness, decision making, and reduce risk.

Team Leadership

·     Coordinate the day to day running of courtroom technology blended team maximising the contribution of the team as a whole and fostering a positive and dynamic environment.

·     Contribute to the expertise across the courtroom technology team by promoting learning and development opportunities.

·     Lead by example by demonstrating a commitment to public service values.

Stakeholder Engagement

·     Proactively engage with a wide variety of stakeholders, from ICT infrastructure and applications teams to wider operational staff and judiciary to develop and maintain high quality end user services that are highly available and fit for purpose.

·     Establish and participate in working groups, workshops and other for a both internal and external as required to advance the courtroom technology agenda and support the ongoing evolution of Organisation’s digital services.

Procurement

·     Support the team’s activity by participating in procurement initiatives to source products and services required.

·     Provide technical/specialist input into procurement initiatives being run by other teams across the organisation.

Vendors

·     Actively manage vendors, ensuring that they adhere to the principals of the organisation, and carry out their tasks in a manner that is compatible with the policies and procedures of the organisation.

·     Actively monitor the performance of vendors, value for money and introduce corrective procedures when appropriate.

Note, the above is intended as a guide and is neither definitive nor restrictive.

4. Essential Requirements:

Applicants should have at least 3 years’ relevant and recent experience for this role.

Qualifications

·     Educated to degree level in a relevant field desirable, however, extensive industry experience in a similar role with a proven track record of AV system design and implementation will also be considered.

Skills and Experience Required

·     Demonstrable experience in the build and management of bespoke AV systems design and implementation in an enterprise environment.

·     Proven track record in successfully operating within a multi-disciplinary team of ICT Professionals within a diverse and complex ICT environment.

·     A technical background, underpinned by practical experience gained on a variety of bespoke enterprise AV systems/services with adherence to AVIXA standards for AV systems integration.

·     Knowledge of AV control systems (Extron, AMX, Crestron) with relevant professional certification desirable

·     Knowledge of digital signal processing, together with knowledge of AV-over-IP protocols (Dante)

·     Experience with collaboration and UC platforms (MTRs, Cisco, Zoom)

·     Demonstrable ability to deliver innovative technical solutions.

·     Vendor management experience.

·     Effective budget management and reporting.

·     Keen proponent of agile methodologies.

·     Excellent written and oral communication skills.

·     Understands and can fully engage in a co-creation environment.

The following skills and experience are desirable.

·     Experience in AV procurement.

·     Experience in ICT policy and strategy development.

5. APPLICATION PROCESS

Application should be made by logging into the advertisement link.

The closing date is 12noon on 25 July 2025. Applications received after the closing date and time will not be accepted.

Candidates who do not hold or do not demonstrate the skills and experience will not be called for interview.

The admission of a person to a competition, or invitation to attend an interview, is not to be taken as implying the Courts Service is satisfied such a person fulfils the requirements of the competition or is not disqualified by law from holding the position and does not carry a guarantee that your application will receive further consideration. It is important, therefore, for candidates to note that the onus is on them to ensure that they meet the eligibility requirements for the competition before attending for interview. If a candidate does not meet these essential entry requirements but nevertheless attends for interview, that candidate will be putting him or herself to unnecessary expense.

6. Selection Methods

The Selection Process will involve:

·                 Assessment of candidates, on the basis of the information contained in their CV & Cover Letter

·                 a competitive interview.

Assessment

The Courts Service will short list to select a group for interview who, based on an examination of the CV & cover letter, appear to be the most suitable for the position.

Those that demonstrate evidence at the required level will be called to interview.

Skills and competencies

Candidates should demonstrate that they have the ability to carry out successfully the duties of the role, as well as the general skills and competencies namely:

Team Leadership

Works with the team to facilitate high performance, developing clear and realistic objectives and addressing and performance issues if they arise.

Provides clear information and advice as to what is required of the team.

Strives to develop and implement new ways of working effectively to meet objectives.

Leads the team by example, coaching and supporting individuals as required.

Places high importance on staff development, training and maximising skills and capacity of team.

Is flexible and willing to adapt, positively contributing to the implementation of change.

Analysis and Decision Making

Gathers and analyses information from relevant sources, whether financial, numerical or otherwise weighing up a range of critical factors.

Takes account of any broader issues and related implications when making decisions.

Uses previous knowledge and experience in order to guide decisions.

Makes sound decisions with a well-reasoned rationale and stands by these.

Puts forward solutions to address problems.

Management and Delivery of Results

Takes responsibility and is accountable for the delivery of agreed objectives.

Successfully manages a range of different projects and work activities at the same time.

Structures and organises their own and others work effectively.

Is logical and pragmatic in approach, delivering the best possible results with the resources available.

Delegates work effectively, providing clear information and evidence as to what is required.

Proactively identifies areas for improvement and develops practical suggestions for their implementation.

Demonstrates enthusiasm for new developments and changing work practices and strives to implement these changes effectively.

Applies appropriate systems and processes to enable quality checking of all activities and outputs.

Practices and promotes a strong focus on delivering high quality customer service,

Interpersonal and Communication Skills

Builds and maintains contact with colleagues and other stakeholders to assist in performing role.

Acts as an effective link between staff and senior management.

Encourages open and constructive discussions around work issues.

Projects conviction, gaining buy-in by outlining relevant information and selling the benefits.

Treats others with diplomacy, tact, courtesy and respect, even in challenging circumstances.

Presents information clearly, concisely and confidently when speaking and in writing.

Specialist Knowledge, Expertise and Self Development

Has a clear understanding of the roles, objectives and targets of self and team and how they fit into the work of the unit and Department/Organisation and effectively communicates this to others.

Has high levels of expertise and broad Public Sector knowledge relevant to his/her area of work.

Focuses on self-development, striving to improve performance.

Drive & Commitment to Public Service Values

Strives to perform at a high level, investing significant energy to achieve agreed objectives.

Demonstrates resilience in the face of challenging circumstances and high demands.

Is personally trustworthy and can be relied upon.

Candidates with Disabilities

The Courts Service has a key role to play in attracting candidates from all sectors of society, ensuring that routes to career opportunities are accessible to all who are interested. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all candidates. If you have a disability or need reasonable accommodation made during the selection process, we strongly encourage you to share this with us so that we can ensure you get the support you need.

Reasonable accommodation in our selection process refers to adjustments and practical changes which would enable a disabled candidate to have an equal opportunity for this competition. Examples of adjustments we provide include the use of assistive technology, extra time, scribes and/or readers or a range of other accommodations.

Please be assured that having a disability or requiring adjustments will not impact on your progress in the selection process; you will not be at a disadvantage if you disclose your disability or requirements to us. Your disability and/or adjustments will be kept entirely confidential.

7. Interviews

Interviews will take place in Dublin city centre. Interviews will be structured in format, with candidates asked to provide examples of the competencies for the role as outlined in Section 6 of this document.

Candidates will be required to detail their experiences under the six competencies. The competencies will be thoroughly and systematically assessed at interview to assess suitability for the grade of Courtroom Technology Engineer.

The board may ask about the experience described on the CV and cover letter or they may ask for other examples.

It is anticipated the interview will last 45 minutes.

Candidates' Obligations:

Candidates in the recruitment process must not:

• knowingly or recklessly provide false information

• canvass any person with or without inducements

• impersonate a candidate at any stage of the process interfere with or compromise the process in any way

Any person who contravenes the above provisions or who assists another person in contravening the above provisions is guilty of an offence. A person who is found guilty of an offence is liable to a fine and/or imprisonment. In addition, where a person found guilty of an offence was or is a candidate at a recruitment process, then:

·                 where he/she has not been appointed to a post, he/she will be disqualified as a candidate; and where he/she has been appointed subsequently to the recruitment process in question, he/she shall forfeit that appointment.

It is important to remember that this is a competitive process for a role where integrity is paramount. Sharing information on the selection process e.g. through social media or any other means, may result in disqualification from the competition.

In addition, if a person found guilty of an offence was, or is a candidate at a recruitment process, they will be disqualified as a candidate and excluded from the process and if appointed to a post following the recruitment process, they will be removed from that post.

Use of Recording Equipment

The Courts Service does not allow the unsanctioned use of any type of recording equipment on its premises. This applies to any form of sound recording and any type of still picture or video recording, whether including sound recording or not, and covers any type of device used for these purposes. Any person wishing to use such equipment for any of these purposes must seek written permission in advance. Unsanctioned use of recording equipment by any person is a breach of this policy. Any candidate involved in such a breach will be disqualified from the competition.

Specific candidate criteria

Candidates must have the knowledge and ability to discharge the duties of the post concerned and be suitable on the grounds of character.

Candidates must be suitable in all other relevant respects for appointment to the post concerned; and if successful they will not be appointed to the post unless they:

·             Agree to undertake the duties attached to the post and accept the conditions under which the duties are, or may be required to be, performed;

·             Are fully competent and available to undertake, and fully capable of undertaking, the duties attached to the position.

Deeming of candidature to be withdrawn

Candidates who do not attend for interview when and where required by the Courts Service, or who do not, when requested, furnish such evidence as the Courts Service requires in regard to any matter relevant to their candidature, will have no further claim to consideration.

Candidates are expected to provide all requested documentation to the Courts Service, including all forms issued by the Courts Service for completion, within five days of request. Failure to do so will result in the candidate being deemed to have withdrawn from the competition and their candidature will receive no further consideration.

8. MATTERS RELATING TO ELIGIBILITY TO APPLY

Citizenship Requirements

Eligible candidates must be:

(a)  A citizen of the European Economic Area (EEA). The EEA consists of the Member States of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway; or

(b)  A citizen of the United Kingdom (UK); or

(c)  A citizen of Switzerland pursuant to the agreement between the EU and Switzerland on the free movement of persons; or

(d)  A non-EEA citizen who has a stamp 4 permission1 or a Stamp 5 permission

1Please note that a 50 TEU permission, which is a replacement for Stamp 4EUFAM after Brexit, is acceptable as a Stamp 4 equivalent.

To qualify candidates must be eligible by the date of any job offer.

9. PRINCIPAL CONDITIONS OF SERVICE

Tenure

The appointment is to an established position in the Civil Service.

Salary

The salary scale for the position (rates effective from March 2025) is as follows:

Higher Executive Officer - Personal Pension Contribution Salary Scale:

€58,264.00, €59,967.00, €61,668.00, €63,366.00, €65,072.00, €66,769.00 €68,472.00 NMAX, €70,928.00 (LSI[1]), €73,378.00 (LSI[2]),

New entrants to the Civil Service will be appointed to the first point of the (PPC) salary scale.

The PPC pay rate applies when the individual is required to pay a Personal Pension Contribution (otherwise known as a main scheme contribution) in accordance with the rules of their main/personal superannuation scheme. This is different to a contribution in respect of membership of a Spouses’ and Children’s scheme, or the Additional Superannuation Contributions (ASC). A different rate will apply where the appointee is not required to make a Personal Pension Contribution.

Salary is payable fortnightly in arrears by Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) into a bank account of the appointees’ choice. Payment cannot be made until an appointee supplies a bank account number and bank sort code to the Human Resources Unit of the Courts Service. Statutory deductions will be made from salary as appropriate by the Courts Service.

Candidates should note that the salary quoted will not be subject to negotiation. The rate of remuneration may be adjusted from time to time in line with Government pay policy.

Duties

Appointees will be expected to perform all acts, duties and obligations as appropriate to this position (which may be revised from time to time).

Hours of Attendance

This is a fulltime post and hours of attendance will be fixed from time to time but will amount to not less than 41 hours and 15 minutes gross per week or 35 hours net per week. Appointees will be required to work such additional hours from time to time as may be reasonable and necessary for the proper performance of his or her duties subject to the limits set down under working time regulations.

Annual Leave

This post is a permanent post. The annual leave entitlement for this post is 29 working days per year.

Headquarters

The appointees’ headquarters will be at the Phoenix House, 15-24 Phoenix St North, Smithfield, Dublin 7.

This position is hybrid.