IT Operations Manager

We are seeking a hands-on, security-first Manager of IT Operations, to build and lead a scalable internal IT function, suitable for a deep tech organization scaling from 35 to 100+ employees. Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, this person will own all aspects of both physical & virtual IT infrastructure, technical security, and end-user support.

The successful candidate will be a clear and concise communicator, able to effectively consult at the “ground level” to troubleshoot issues, whilst also advising on network, security and compliance architecture with C‑suite stakeholders. We are seeking a candidate who understands the important balance of integrating employee experience with technology frameworks, process and rollouts.

This is a builder’s role, and our first internal owner of IT operations, vendor relationships, and technical infrastructure for the company. This presents a unique opportunity to gain autonomy in the design and direction of our IT systems and policy from the ground up.

This role requires access to facilities, technical data, and systems subject to U.S. export control regulations (ITAR/EAR).

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States. The company is unable to provide employment visa sponsorship for this position.

• Review, design, optimize and build our end-to-end IT infrastructure, including network, servers, cloud environments (Google Workspace/MS365, Amazon Web Services), endpoint devices, and telecom/communication tools, including Zoom infrastructure and conferencing hardware (e.g., Zoom Rooms).

• Manage day-to-day end-user support, ensuring rapid resolution of hardware, software, and access issues for a growing onsite/hybrid workforce.

• Own device & hardware provisioning for new and existing employees, ensuring secure identity and access management (SSO/MFA), mobile device management (MDM), and software/security licensing across the organization.

• Develop and maintain IT policies, procedures, and documentation, including onboarding/offboarding checklists, asset inventory, and disaster recovery/business continuity plans.

• Own IT & security training for onboarding and new systems rollouts, as well as building supporting visual documentation for future use.

• Manage AI subscriptions, settings, and usage to protect sensitive data. Monitor policy and compliance updates and communicate key changes to staff. Lead “responsible AI usage” training.

• Own the company’s cybersecurity planning, including endpoint protection, network security, data loss prevention, and incident response planning. AI security experience would be beneficial.

• Lead IT-related compliance efforts supporting CMMC, NIST 800-171, and other federal/defense‑industry security requirements applicable to company contracts.

• Partner with company leadership and outside counsel/consultants on export control (ITAR/EAR) requirements as they relate to IT systems, data segregation, and facility access controls.

• Conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability management and lead employee security awareness training.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for IT security audits, customer security questionnaires, and compliance certifications.

• Evaluate, select, and manage relationships with IT vendors, software/hardware providers, and telecom/internet providers, including contract negotiation and renewals.

• Lead IT-related projects supporting office moves, expansions, or new site buildouts as the company scales.

• Partner with the VP of Operations and department leads to plan and budget IT infrastructure investments that support the company’s growth trajectory.

• Research…