Position Overview
The Lead IT Operations Architect will oversee the entire IT function of a large manufacturing facility. This role is responsible for ensuring the reliability, security, and scalability of the IT infrastructure, as well as providing support for business systems and end-users, managing cybersecurity controls, executing IT projects, and ensuring plant technology readiness.

Role Details
This role requires hands-on leadership in a complex manufacturing setting. The Lead IT Operations Architect will lead a small technical team and collaborate closely with various departments such as operations, engineering, maintenance, quality, finance, HR, supply chain, logistics, corporate IT, vendors, and external service providers.

Job Scope
In this critical role, the Lead IT Operations Architect will support the organization's growth in U.S. manufacturing across multiple production, coating, logistics, workshop, and yard operations.

Responsibilities

1. Team Leadership
   • Lead all aspects of the IT function including infrastructure, help desk, ERP/business systems support, cybersecurity coordination, IT assets, vendors, documentation, and project execution
   • Prioritize infrastructure, applications, and support resources based on plant needs and project commitments
   • Ensure IT support aligns with production continuity, safety, operational excellence, and corporate IT standards
2. Infrastructure Management
   • Manage the performance, reliability, and security of LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, VPN, servers, storage, backups, virtualization, and cloud systems
   • Oversee Microsoft 365, Active Directory, email, Teams, SharePoint, endpoint management, printers, scanners, and end-user devices
   • Maintain server rooms, racks, cabling, UPS systems, and shop-floor connectivity for 24/7 operations
3. Help Desk Support
   • Oversee the site help desk and provide professional support for office, plant, yard, and logistics users
   • Set service-level expectations, monitor ticket performance, and ensure appropriate escalation
   • Manage employee onboarding/offboarding, equipment assignment, and IT asset recovery
4. ERP Support
   • Coordinate first-level support for ERP and other business applications, working with corporate IT teams as needed
   • Support user access requests, role coordination, troubleshooting, and process issue escalation
   • Ensure application availability for various business functions
5. Manufacturing IT Support
   • Ensure IT systems support production, quality, maintenance, engineering, yard/logistics, and security systems
   • Collaborate with operational teams to minimize disruptions and support plant systems
   • Include IT requirements in new projects and expansions
6. Cybersecurity Management
   • Implement cybersecurity controls including endpoint protection, patch compliance, user access reviews, and backups
   • Coordinate incident response with corporate IT and external partners
   • Promote cybersecurity awareness and risk management
7. Project Management
   • Lead IT projects such as network upgrades, server improvements, cybersecurity initiatives, and technology rollouts
   • Ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget with proper documentation
8. Vendor Management
   • Manage local IT vendors and service providers ensuring reliable service and proper documentation
   • Maintain relationships with hardware/software suppliers, managed service providers, and cybersecurity vendors
9. Compliance and Governance
   • Maintain IT governance including asset inventory, licenses, documentation, policies, and audit support
   • Ensure controls are aligned with corporate requirements and standards
10. Team Development
    • Lead and develop the local IT team, building technical capability and a service-oriented culture
    • Facilitate cross-training, backup coverage, and accountability within the team

Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field
• 8–12 years of progressive IT experience with at least 4–5 years in an IT leadership role
• Experience in managing IT infrastructure, help desk, networking, servers, cybersecurity, and business applications
• Experience in manufacturing or similar industrial environments
• Strong knowledge of networking, firewalls, VPNs, servers, and Microsoft environments
• Experience managing technical teams and vendors

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience supporting 24/7 manufacturing operations
• Exposure to IT/OT environments and plant-floor connectivity
• Experience with plant expansions or major infrastructure upgrades
• Knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST or CIS Controls
• Certifications like ITIL, CCNA, CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CISM, or PMP

Leadership Expectations
The Lead IT Operations Architect must be visible, responsive, and hands-on. This role demands a leader who can engage with executives, troubleshoot plant-floor issues, and handle cybersecurity or ERP matters on the same day.

The ideal candidate will bring structure, urgency, technical expertise, and strong customer service skills to support the organization's growth, digitalization, and cybersecurity efforts.