IT Manager - Hybrid IT Engineering and Operations (Remote)

About the Role

Optomi is seeking an experienced IT Manager - Remote to lead their IT Engineering and Operations functions. This role is responsible for overseeing day-to-day technology operations, managing a hybrid IT team (internal and MSP), and designing scalable business solutions using off-the-shelf products, integrations, and modern cloud technologies. This will be a 6-month contract to hire, fully remote.

What You'll Do

• Lead and manage hybrid IT engineering and operations teams (internal staff and MSP partners), driving performance, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee daily IT operations including infrastructure, cloud services, service desk, and SaaS administration.
• Establish and enforce best practices for SLA-driven IT support, change management, incident response, and system operations.
• Champion a customer-first service mindset, delivering high-quality IT support and an exceptional end-user experience.
• Design and implement business solutions leveraging off-the-shelf platforms, AI tools, APIs, integrations, and automation workflows.
• Evaluate and implement new tools and technologies to support business growth and digital transformation.
• Administer and manage Microsoft 365 ecosystem (E3/E5), including Entra ID (Azure AD), Defender, Exchange Online, Intune, and security policies.
• Oversee Azure cloud infrastructure including virtual machines, storage, databases, networking, and identity management.
• Lead enterprise identity initiatives including SSO, MFA, Conditional Access, and SaaS integrations.
• Manage corporate networking including firewalls, VPNs, and wireless infrastructure.
• Establish and maintain IT and Information Security policies, procedures, and standards.
• Lead vulnerability management, patching, endpoint security, logging, and monitoring initiatives.
• Implement and maintain security controls across cloud platforms, systems, and SaaS applications.
• Support security awareness programs, SOC 2 compliance efforts, audits, and risk assessments.
• Manage the full SaaS lifecycle including procurement, onboarding, integration, support, and offboarding.
• Maintain strong vendor relationships across MSPs, SaaS providers, and cloud partners.
• Monitor system performance, licensing, and cost optimization initiatives.
• Oversee IT Service Desk operations, ensuring timely issue resolution and continuous process improvement.
• Develop and track IT KPIs, SLAs, and operational dashboards.
• Lead cross-functional IT projects, including M&A initiatives, from planning through execution.

Requirements

• 10+ years of hands-on experience in IT engineering, system administration, or IT operations.
• 5+ years of experience in IT leadership or team management.
• Proven experience designing and delivering business solutions using off-the-shelf applications and system integrations.
• Strong commitment to delivering best-in-class IT service and end-user experience.
• Ability to balance hands-on technical work with team leadership responsibilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Solid understanding of security, compliance, and governance frameworks.
• Strong problem-solving mindset with a focus on scalability and reliability.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Self-starter with the ability to operate independently and drive initiatives forward.

Nice to Have

• Preferred Certifications: Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert, Azure Administrator or Azure Solutions Architect, ITIL Foundation (or higher), CISM or CISSP.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary range of $120,000 - $140,000 annually.
• Fully remote work environment.
• Opportunity to work with a leading client in the IT industry.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Professional development and growth opportunities.