IT Operations & Security Lead

Location: Indianapolis, IN (On-site / Hybrid) Clearance: U.S. Citizen; must be eligible for Public Trust (or higher)

Overview

We are seeking an experienced IT Operations & Security Lead to oversee day-to-day IT infrastructure operations and support security and compliance initiatives in a regulated environment. This role serves as the technical lead and first-line manager for IT engineering staff, ensuring reliable, secure, and compliant systems across the organization.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on technical leader with deep experience in infrastructure, networking, and cybersecurity, combined with the ability to manage a small team and coordinate with external partners.

Key Responsibilities

IT Operations & Infrastructure
• Lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of secure IT infrastructure (Windows Server, Active Directory, networking, virtualization)
• Oversee daily IT operations including endpoint management, server administration, and M365 environment
• Manage and optimize Active Directory (GPOs, DNS, DHCP, domain architecture)
• Ensure performance, availability, and scalability of systems and services

Security & Compliance
• Implement and maintain security controls aligned to NIST, FISMA, CMMC, and IRS Publication 4812 requirements
• Support audit readiness activities including POA&Ms, SSP inputs, and continuous monitoring efforts
• Partner with external compliance and security vendors (e.g., MSSPs, 3PAOs) to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements
• Oversee vulnerability management, endpoint protection, and logging/monitoring (SIEM)

Team Leadership
• Supervise and mentor IT Systems Engineers; assign and prioritize work
• Provide technical guidance, escalation support, and performance feedback
• Drive documentation standards including SOPs, system configurations, and incident reporting

Vendor & Project Coordination
• Coordinate with external infrastructure providers and data center partners
• Support transition of IT services from outsourced providers to internal operations
• Assist in procurement decisions for hardware, software, and infrastructure solutions
• Support technical delivery for internal projects and customer-facing initiatives

Solution Engineering Support
• Contribute to technical solution design for business development and customer projects
• Provide input on architecture, security, and infrastructure for proposals and implementations

Required Qualifications
• 8-12+ years of experience in IT infrastructure, systems engineering, or related roles
• Proven experience leading or mentoring technical teams
• Strong expertise in:

o Windows Server, Active Directory, Group Policy

o Networking (firewalls, routing, switching, VPNs)

o Virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V, or similar)

o Microsoft 365 / Azure AD (Entra ID)
• Experience implementing and supporting cybersecurity controls (endpoint protection, vulnerability management, logging/SIEM)
• Working knowledge of compliance frameworks such as NIST 800-53, NIST 800-171, FISMA, or CMMC
• Experience operating in regulated or government environments
• Strong documentation, communication, and organizational skills
• U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a Public Trust clearance

Preferred Qualifications
• Industry certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CAP, Security+, CCNA, or VMware VCP
• Experience supporting federal or highly regulated environments
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., Costpoint) and enterprise SaaS platforms
• Experience transitioning services from managed service providers to internal teams
• Exposure to compliance audits and coordination with third-party assessors

Why This Role

This position is a key part of building an internal IT capability, reducing reliance on external providers, and strengthening security and compliance posture. You will play a central role in shaping IT operations, mentoring a growing team, and supporting mission-critical systems and government programs.