IT Operations Manager

Job Title: IT Operations ManagerLocation: Chicago, IL (On-site)About The CompanyOur client is a private equity-backed manufacturing organization and part of a growing family of brands serving the infrastructure, utilities, renewable energy, telecommunications, and construction industries throughout North America. As the business continues to grow through operational improvements and strategic acquisitions, they are investing in modernizing their technology environment to better support the organization's long-term vision.This is an opportunity to join a collaborative, entrepreneurial culture where you'll have the ability to make an immediate impact. Rather than stepping into a mature IT department, you'll help shape the company's internal IT function, improve operational efficiency, and influence technology decisions that directly support business growth.Job SummaryWe are seeking a hands-on IT Operations Manager to lead day-to-day IT operations while helping transform the company's technology support model. This individual will serve as the organization's primary internal IT resource, working closely with business stakeholders, vendors, and an existing Managed Service Provider (MSP) to improve service delivery, strengthen infrastructure, and drive operational excellence.The ideal candidate is a technically strong infrastructure professional with experience supporting Microsoft environments, networking, endpoint security, and IT operations. Just as importantly, this individual enjoys partnering with end users, solving business problems, and taking ownership of the overall IT experience across the organization.Key Responsibilities Infrastructure & Systems Administration: Administer Microsoft 365, network infrastructure, firewalls, backups, servers, and endpoint technologies while ensuring secure, reliable day-to-day operations. End User Support: Provide hands-on Level 1 and Level 2 technical support, troubleshoot hardware and software issues, and deliver exceptional customer service across approximately 150–200 users. Vendor & MSP Management: Manage relationships with hardware, software, and security vendors while overseeing the company's Managed Service Provider (MSP), including service delivery, escalations, licensing, renewals, and contract performance. Cybersecurity & Compliance: Manage endpoint protection, email security, system monitoring, backups, disaster recovery planning, and security best practices to maintain a secure technology environment. Continuous Improvement: Evaluate new technologies, improve IT processes, support multiple business locations, and help lead the organization's transition toward a more efficient internal IT operating model.Requirements Education: Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related discipline (or equivalent hands-on experience). Experience: Approximately 3–5+ years of hands-on IT infrastructure, systems administration, networking, or IT operations experience. Skills: Microsoft 365 administration (Exchange, SharePoint, Teams, Entra ID/Azure AD). Windows Server and Active Directory administration. Networking, firewalls, VPNs, backups, and disaster recovery. Endpoint and email security platforms. IT vendor and software licensing management. Experience working alongside or managing a Managed Service Provider (MSP). Strong troubleshooting, customer service, and communication skills Other: Comfortable working independently in a hands-on technical role. Willingness to travel occasionally to production facilities. Ability to build relationships with business stakeholders while delivering responsive IT support.Preferred Qualifications Experience administering SonicWall, Sophos, or similar firewall technologies. Experience with endpoint security solutions such as Huntress, Deep Instinct, Proofpoint, or comparable platforms. Manufacturing, industrial, or multi-site environment experience. Experience implementing or improving IT service management processes. Familiarity with ERP systems and supporting operational business users. Experience participating in vendor evaluations and technology selection initiatives.Benefits Competitive Compensation Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits. Professional Development: Opportunity to build and lead the company's internal IT function while partnering with senior leadership on future technology initiatives. Additional Perks: Exposure to private equity-backed growth initiatives, cross-functional leadership, and the opportunity to influence technology strategy as the organization continues to expand.