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 ResponsibilitiesLead day-to-day IT operations across multiple business units and locationsManage Microsoft 365 administration, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and endpoint environmentsSupport compliance initiatives related to NIST 800-171, DFARS 7012, and CMMC 2.0Coordinate with the company’s MSP, vendors, and internal stakeholders to support systems and projectsMaintain and improve IT documentation, standards, inventories, and support proceduresSupport Sage 100 ERP and related operational business systemsProvide hands-on troubleshooting and escalation support for hardware, software, network, and user issuesIdentify opportunities to improve efficiency through AI, automation, reporting, and workflow toolsKey AttributesHands-on technical leader with strong problem-solving abilityOrganized, service-oriented, and security-mindedComfortable operating in a manufacturing and operational business environmentStrong communication skills with both technical and non-technical usersAbility to balance strategic planning with day-to-day executionCapable of building structure and improving processes in a growing IT environmentPhysical RequirementsAbility to sit, bend, or stand for extended periods of timeAbility to lift up to 50 pounds occasionallyFrequent use of computers, keyboards, and repetitive hand movementsAbility to work at close visual range for extended periodsAbility to travel occasionally between company locations as neededRequired Qualifications5+ years of progressive IT experience in systems administration, infrastructure support, Microsoft 365 administration, cybersecurity, and end-user support2+ years of experience managing vendors, MSPs, IT projects, or technical resourcesStrong working knowledge of Microsoft 365, including Exchange, Teams, SharePoint/OneDrive, Entra ID/Azure AD, MFA, identity management, and permissionsExperience with Windows Server, Active Directory, networking, VPNs, backup/recovery, endpoint security, and patch managementStrong documentation and organizational skillsAbility to prioritize work across multiple departments and locationsHands-on mindset with the ability to lead, plan, and execute technical initiativesPreferred QualificationsExperience supporting manufacturing or multi-site operational environmentsFamiliarity with Sage 100 ERP or similar ERP systemsExposure to compliance frameworks such as NIST 800-171, DFARS, or CMMC 2.0AI fluency and experience leveraging automation and AI tools to improve business processes strongly preferredThis position requires the ability to obtain a security clearance from the U.S. government, which requires U.S. citizenship.