IT Network Admin/ Hardware Support Specialist

We are looking for a hands-on, dependable IT professional to join our on-site team at our industrial aerospace container manufacturing and distribution facility. As our IT Network Admin / Hardware Support Specialist, you will be the primary point of contact for all on-site technology needs - from the production floor to the front office.

This is a critical role in a fast-moving environment, where network downtime has real operational and financial consequences. You will keep our network infrastructure, computer systems, and IT hardware running at peak performance while also driving security compliance and supporting long-term IT improvements. If you thrive in environments where no two days look the same and take personal pride in keeping operations running, this is the role for you., * Serve as on-site Level 1 and Level 2 support for desktops, laptops, industrial terminals, barcode scanners, printers, and networked production equipment.

• Configure and deploy hardware for production floor and office use; diagnose and resolve issues down to the component level.
• Manage the full hardware asset lifecycle - from procurement and deployment through maintenance and decommission.
• Maintain spare parts inventory and proactively coordinate replacements to minimize production downtime.
• Coordinate warranty claims, vendor RMA processes, and equipment service contracts.

Systems Administration

• Administer Windows Server environments including Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, and file share permissions.
• Support on-premises and cloud-hosted applications including ERP/MRP systems, manufacturing software, CAD platforms, phone systems, and access control.
• Manage endpoint security tools including antivirus, patch management, and device configuration (MDM/GPO).
• Perform regular backup and disaster recovery testing; maintain documented recovery procedures for all critical systems.

Network Infrastructure

• Install, maintain, and troubleshoot physical network infrastructure including cabling, patch panels, network racks, switches, and wireless access points.
• Monitor network performance and connectivity; escalate recurring outages, latency, or bottleneck issues to senior IT staff as needed.
• Assist with configuring and maintaining routers, switches, firewalls, and VPN endpoints.
• Maintain accurate network documentation including labeling, topology diagrams, and runbooks.

IT Security & Compliance

• Enforce cybersecurity policies including user access controls, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and software whitelisting on production terminals.
• Conduct periodic vulnerability assessments and coordinate remediation with management.
• Maintain audit trails for sensitive system access; support applicable data security compliance requirements.
• Conduct staff training on security topics including phishing awareness and safe network usage.

Vendor & Project Management

• Liaise with IT vendors, hardware suppliers, telecom providers, and managed service partners.
• Execute IT infrastructure improvement projects including network upgrades, hardware refresh cycles, and systems migrations.
• Prepare cost estimates and capital/operational IT expenditure recommendations., * Technical Troubleshooting: Methodical, disciplined approach to diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues under time pressure.
• Production Mindset: Understands that unresolved IT issues carry direct operational and financial impact in a manufacturing environment.
• Communication: Translates technical concepts clearly for non-technical production, warehouse, and management personnel.
• Accountability: Takes ownership of issues from identification through resolution; follows up proactively.
• Adaptability: Shifts priorities quickly in response to production demands, equipment failures, or urgent shipping deadlines.
• Documentation: Consistently maintains accurate records of system changes, incidents, and resolutions., * Mobility: Frequent walking throughout production areas, warehouse, server/telecom rooms, and offices
• Lifting: Ability to lift and carry IT equipment up to 50 lbs. (servers, UPS units, monitors, components)
• Environment: Regular exposure to manufacturing floor conditions including noise, moving machinery, and temperature variation
• Spaces: Comfortable working in confined data closets, under raised flooring, at heights for cable routing, and in climate-controlled server environments
• Availability: Occasional off-hours availability required for scheduled maintenance windows, emergency outages, or system upgrades
• PPE: Must comply with all applicable safety protocols and PPE requirements when on the production floor, * Be a critical contributor to manufacturing operations that support a growing industry.
• Own your work - this is a high-visibility role where your impact is felt immediately across the entire facility.
• Collaborative culture with experienced production, engineering, and operations professionals.
• Opportunity to lead IT improvement projects and grow your skills in a dynamic industrial environment.

• Education: Associate's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Network Administration, or a related field. An equivalent combination of technical certifications and hands-on experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Experience: 3-5 years of progressive IT experience, with at least 2 years in a manufacturing, industrial, or distribution center environment. Experience supporting environments with 50+ users in mixed IT/OT settings is strongly preferred.
• Certifications (Preferred): CompTIA Network+, CompTIA A+, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, or MCSA.

Technical Skills:

• Networking: TCP/IP, VLANs, QoS, wireless (802.11ac/ax), firewall administration, VPN
• Systems: Windows Server 2016/2019/2022, Active Directory, Group Policy, Windows 10/11, Microsoft 365
• Hardware: Network cabling and equipment, end-user device repair, rack-mounted servers, UPS systems, industrial terminals and barcode scanners
• Tools: Remote assistance software, ticketing systems, patch management platforms
• Scripting: Basic PowerShell or batch scripting for automation is a plus
• ERP: Experience with SAP, Epicor, Infor, NetSuite, or comparable manufacturing ERP platforms preferred
• Bonus: Prior experience supporting barcode and label printing in a manufacturing or distribution environment