IT Operations & Security Lead

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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Phoenix Data Corporation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.