IT Infrastructure Lead

Department: IT / Infrastructure & Operations

Reports to: IT & DT Manager

Position Status: Full-Time

Status: Lead

JOB SUMMARY: KIOTI Tractor is seeking an IT Infrastructure Lead to join our team onsite in Wendell, NC. This role leads day-to-day infrastructure and end-user support operations across network, server, security, endpoint, and workplace technologies. The position is expected to provide both operational leadership and hands-on technical support when needed. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES OF JOBInfrastructure Operations LeadershipLead daily infrastructure operations across network, server, security, backup, virtualization, and endpoint environments. Monitor the overall health, stability, performance, and support readiness of core infrastructure services. Helpdesk Escalation and User SupportAct as the primary escalation point for issues not resolved at the helpdesk level. Establish support standards, escalation paths, and documentation discipline for end-user support activities. System Monitoring and TroubleshootingSupport and maintain firewalls, switches, wireless, servers, storage, backup systems, Microsoft 365, Active Directory, and related infrastructure platforms. Participate directly in troubleshooting, configuration, implementation, and recovery work when hands-on intervention is required. Provide after-hours or emergency leadership support when significant incidents or urgent infrastructure work require it. Vendor and Outsourcing ManagementCoordinate and manage external infrastructure vendors, MSPs, and project partners. Follow up on service quality, project progress, issue resolution, and technical deliverables. Plan and execute infrastructure upgrades, replacements, maintenance activities, and operational improvement projects. Prepare implementation approach, risk review, rollback planning, business communication, and execution follow-up for infrastructure changes. System Installation and ConfigurationSupport installation and configuration of servers, network devices, endpoint tools, and related infrastructure components. Maintain and improve identity, access, device, and collaboration platforms such as Active Directory, Entra ID / Azure AD, Microsoft 365, and endpoint administration tools. Backup and RecoverySupport patching, backup operations, and disaster recovery readiness to reduce operational and business risk. Security ManagementSupport access control, security control execution, and infrastructure security governance in coordination with internal and external stakeholders. Documentation and ReportingMaintain infrastructure documentation, diagrams, asset records, support procedures, and operational status reporting for management review. Cross-Functional SupportWork closely with the IT systems / planning function to support business applications, plant operations, and cross-functional business requirements. EDUCATIONAL AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTSEducation and ExperienceBachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience. 8+ years of progressive IT infrastructure experience in support, administration, implementation, or operational leadership roles. Technical KnowledgeBroad working knowledge of enterprise infrastructure including network, firewall, wireless, Windows Server, virtualization, storage, backup, endpoint, identity, and Microsoft 365 environments. Working knowledge of tools and platforms such as Active Directory, Entra ID / Azure AD, PowerShell, VMware, backup platforms, and network/security equipment. Ability to troubleshoot across server, network, security, and end-user support issues. Leadership and Work StyleAbility to lead infrastructure operations without depending entirely on vendors, while still managing external partners effectively. Ability to communicate technical issues, priorities, tradeoffs, and recommendations clearly to both technical staff and management. Strong ownership, follow-through, time management, and multi-tasking capability.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience in a manufacturing, distribution, or multi-site operational environment preferred.