Overview
A growing engineering organization is seeking a Network Systems Engineer / IT Manager to operate as a hands-on, one-person IT department supporting approximately 40 technical and administrative staff. This role blends infrastructure engineering, cybersecurity, systems administration, and end-user support within a hybrid Windows and Linux environment.
The ideal candidate has strong technical range, thrives in small-company settings, and can independently design, maintain, and secure a modern IT environment.
Key Responsibilities
Infrastructure & Systems Administration
Design, implement, and maintain IT infrastructure across Windows and Linux systems
Install, configure, and upgrade servers, routers, switches, access points, and core platforms
Manage Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, SSO, Microsoft 365, and Exchange
Maintain and optimize physical and virtual servers, workstations, and endpoints
Security & Compliance
Ensure compliance with NIST 800-171 and CMMC 2.0 cybersecurity requirements
Implement security best practices including encryption, authentication, access controls, and backups
Monitor, assess, and remediate system vulnerabilities
IT Operations & Support
Troubleshoot network, desktop, software, and user issues across the organization
Support software licensing and performance for engineering tools (e.g., SolidWorks, ANSYS, MATLAB)
Collaborate with leadership on technology planning, procurement, and vendor management
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in IT, Computer Science, or a related field
5+ years of hands-on IT systems and infrastructure management experience
Strong proficiency in both Linux and Windows Server environments
Scripting or automation experience (Ansible preferred; Python a plus)
Networking experience with servers, routers, switches, and basic firewall concepts
Expertise in Microsoft 365, Exchange, Active Directory, DNS, and SSO
Demonstrated experience with NIST 800-171 or CMMC 2.0 security frameworks
Ability to independently manage IT operations in a fast-paced, small-company environment
Preferred Qualifications
Certifications such as CCNA or equivalent
Experience with HPC (High-Performance Computing) environments
Familiarity with Docker, Kubernetes, or general containerization
Database experience with MySQL or similar relational systems
Python scripting experience (Pandas, SciKit-Learn, SQLAlchemy, etc.)
Exposure to machine learning or data science infrastructure
Experience with workflow automation tools such as N8N
Candidate Profile
This role is ideal for someone who:
Is self-directed and comfortable owning the entire IT function
Enjoys both strategic planning and hands-on technical execution
Communicates effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders
Thrives in a dynamic engineering environment with evolving needs