Technical Services - Mgr Computer Operations

We are currently looking for a Manager, Computer Operations to join our team at WoodmenLife.

As a Manager, Computer Operations, you’ll lead a team of dedicated professionals who ensure the smooth, uninterrupted operation of our critical business systems in a 24x5 environment. You’ll manage daily operations, coach and develop a high-performing team, and serve as both Product Owner and Scrum Master for strategic initiatives. This role is essential to keeping our systems running efficiently while also driving innovation and continuous improvement.

If you’re a strong leader with a passion for operational excellence, team development, and cross-functional collaboration, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

Why would you enjoy working as a Manager, Computer Operations at WoodmenLife?

Variety! No two days are the same in Operations. You’ll balance the essential responsibility of maintaining and supporting daily production systems with forward-thinking initiatives that improve how we work. It’s a dynamic mix of innovation and reliability that keeps things fresh and meaningful.

Team Culture. Our team is made up of dependable, dedicated professionals who take pride in their work. You’ll also be part of a broader Technical Services (Infrastructure & Operations) group that’s highly skilled and incredibly supportive. You’ll never feel like you’re going alone.

Strong Reputation. We’ve built trusted relationships across the organization. Other departments know they can count on us, which makes collaboration smoother and more rewarding.

If you’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving problems, and loves helping others succeed, this is a role where you can truly make an impact.

What we are looking for:

• A leader who can hire, coach, and manage a team of 7 associates (2 exempt, 5 non-exempt) in a 24x5 shift environment.
• Someone who can oversee daily operations, resolve system issues, and ensure timely completion of production processes.
• Be a collaborator who works well with internal teams, including Technical Services, Agile teams, Facilities, and business users.
• Be a strategic thinker who can manage vendor relationships, department budgets, and data center operations.
• A servant leader who can act as both Product Owner and Scrum Master, helping the team deliver value through agile practices.
• A professional who can serve as a backup to the Sr. Operations Analyst when needed.
  
  

Technology You’ll Work With:

• Core Tools: Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, Excel), Dayforce, Lawson, ServiceNow
• Operations Tech: Mainframe z/OS, Control-M (mainframe and distributed)
  
  

What You Bring to the Table:

Essential Job Functions

• Plans, directs, and monitors computer operations to optimize the use of the organization’s information processing systems and resources.
• Hires, leads, coaches, and mentors a team of operations technicians and analysts in a 24x5 shift environment. Ensures engagement and productivity through consistent communication, goal setting, performance reviews, and identifying training and development opportunities.
• Oversees daily activities of the computer operations department.
• Manages vendor and contract relationships related to operations.
• Develops and manages departmental and operational budgets.
• Monitors the physical data center environment to ensure optimal electrical, heating, cooling, and facility conditions.
• Collaborates with technical and business teams to ensure continuity and successful delivery of services across the organization.
• Provides backup support for the Sr. Operations Analyst role as needed.
• Ensures alignment between business initiatives and timely, high-quality implementation of technology solutions.
• Serves as Agile Product Owner for the team, managing and prioritizing the work backlog and collaborating with partner teams to deliver business value.
• Serves as Agile Scrum Master, facilitating workflow, ensuring timely completion of planned work, and managing inter-team dependencies.
• Develops and manages the annual budget, ensuring financial accountability.
• Designs, deploys, and maintains effective backup, restore, and recovery strategies for computer operations.
• Meets expectations for attendance and punctuality in accordance with company policy.
• Performs other duties as assigned by management.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field or equivalent work experience.
• Five or more years of operations experience in a technology environment.
• Strong planning, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communicator with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Proven ability to prioritize and consistently deliver results in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to stay current with technology trends and effectively mentor and lead team members.
• Independent and critical thinker with leadership-level decision-making capabilities.
• Passion for developing people and helping them reach their full potential.
• Strong relationship-building and collaboration skills.
• Commitment to providing seamless, trustworthy, attentive, and resourceful (S.T.A.R.) customer service.
• Engages well with others and is passionate about delivering an exceptional customer experience.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications (Optional Section Suggestion)

• Previous leadership experience in a technology operations environment.
• Experience serving in a backup capacity for Sr. Operations Analyst or similar roles.
• Agile certification or experience as a Product Owner and/or Scrum Master.
  
  

Career Growth:

This role offers a strong foundation for advancement into senior leadership, or transitions into Product Owner, Scrum Master, or Program Manager roles.

If WoodmenLife is the type of company you are looking for and this position is one that you could see yourself doing long-term, please apply online to see if it's the right fit for you.

WoodmenLife offers a competitive compensation package and a comprehensive benefits package. More information about our benefits can be found at https://www.woodmenlife.org/careers/home-office/benefits/.

As part of WoodmenLife’s employment process, candidates will be required to complete a criminal background check, credit check (where required for position), Fingerprint check (where required for position), drug screen and reference checks. Any offer of employment will be contingent upon successfully passing the above.

WoodmenLife is welcoming to all regardless of background and beliefs. WoodmenLife respects every associate’s unique perspective and contribution. We are committed to creating an environment that values differences, and creates opportunities for growth, leadership and service. This commitment includes providing equal opportunity in recruitment, employment and promotion, training and community outreach. WoodmenLife is also dedicated to strengthening the communities in which its employees live.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES SHOULD ADVISE THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION IF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS ARE NEEDED.

Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society (WoodmenLife) is an equal opportunity employer.