IT Operations Manager

Western Protective Solutions is seeking a hands-on IT Operations Manager to lead IT operations, infrastructure, security, business systems support, and technology improvement initiatives across the organization.

This is not a basic helpdesk role. We are looking for someone who can manage the IT function for a growing, multi-location organization while also being capable of doing the work directly when needed. The right candidate will be technically strong, organized, security-minded, business-focused, and able to work effectively with internal users, leadership, outside vendors, an existing MSP partner, and entry-level support resources.

The company utilizes Microsoft 365 for administration, productivity, email, collaboration, and user management. Current priorities include bringing server infrastructure back in-house in support of CMMC 2.0 requirements, strengthening cybersecurity and documentation, improving support processes, and identifying practical ways to use AI and automation to improve workflows and build organizational capacity.

This role reports to the CEO and works closely with the company’s MSP and department leaders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day IT operations across multiple business units and locations
• Manage Microsoft 365 administration, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and endpoint environments
• Support compliance initiatives related to NIST 800-171, DFARS 7012, and CMMC 2.0
• Coordinate with the company’s MSP, vendors, and internal stakeholders to support systems and projects
• Maintain and improve IT documentation, standards, inventories, and support procedures
• Support Sage 100 ERP and related operational business systems
• Provide hands-on troubleshooting and escalation support for hardware, software, network, and user issues
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency through AI, automation, reporting, and workflow tools

Key Attributes

• Hands-on technical leader with strong problem-solving ability
• Organized, service-oriented, and security-minded
• Comfortable operating in a manufacturing and operational business environment
• Strong communication skills with both technical and non-technical users
• Ability to balance strategic planning with day-to-day execution
• Capable of building structure and improving processes in a growing IT environment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, bend, or stand for extended periods of time
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Frequent use of computers, keyboards, and repetitive hand movements
• Ability to work at close visual range for extended periods
• Ability to travel occasionally between company locations as needed

Required Qualifications

• 5 years of progressive IT experience in systems administration, infrastructure support, Microsoft 365 administration, cybersecurity, and end-user support
• 2 years of experience managing vendors, MSPs, IT projects, or technical resources
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft 365, including Exchange, Teams, SharePoint/OneDrive, Entra ID/Azure AD, MFA, identity management, and permissions
• Experience with Windows Server, Active Directory, networking, VPNs, backup/recovery, endpoint security, and patch management
• Strong documentation and organizational skills
• Ability to prioritize work across multiple departments and locations
• Hands-on mindset with the ability to lead, plan, and execute technical initiatives

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting manufacturing or multi-site operational environments
• Familiarity with Sage 100 ERP or similar ERP systems
• Exposure to compliance frameworks such as NIST 800-171, DFARS, or CMMC 2.0
• AI fluency and experience leveraging automation and AI tools to improve business processes strongly preferred

This position requires the ability to obtain a security clearance from the U.S. government, which requires U.S. citizenship.