Infrastructure Operations Lead
- Chicago, IL
- $112,410-162,710 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Design and maintain robust systems infrastructure to support A&E production workflows (Revit, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Rhino, SketchUp, Enscape, etc.)
- Lead the architecture, deployment, and administration of on-prem, cloud, and hybrid infrastructure
- Manage Windows and Linux-based servers, virtualization environments (VMware/Hyper-V), file systems, and network storage (NAS/SAN)
- Implement and manage system monitoring, automation, patching, and performance optimization tools
- Oversee Microsoft 365, Azure Active Directory, and integrated cloud services (SharePoint, Teams, OneDrive, Exchange)
- Lead hybrid/cloud transitions and integration of SaaS tools used in the A&E industry
- Define and enforce security policies around user access, identity management, and endpoint protection
- Ensure regular backups and robust disaster recovery processes for mission-critical data
- Work closely with cybersecurity teams/vendors to maintain compliance and mitigate threats
- Serve as a technical lead and subject matter expert for infrastructure initiatives, guiding strategic planning, design, and implementation of scalable solutions
- Provide hands-on leadership and direction to IT support teams, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
- Mentor and develop IT support staff through coaching, performance feedback, and professional development planning to build a high-performing, service-oriented team
- Establish and enforce operational best practices, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, compliance standards, and industry benchmarks
- Collaborate cross-functionally with software engineering, cybersecurity, digital design, and external vendors to ensure seamless delivery of technical services and solutions
- Lead and manage systems-related projects—including infrastructure upgrades, office buildouts, remote access rollouts, and disaster recovery testing—ensuring on-time delivery, quality execution, and clear documentation
- Track key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate team efficiency, support responsiveness, and operational health; use data to inform leadership decisions and drive continuous improvement
- Act as an escalation point for complex technical issues, providing strategic guidance and resolution oversight
- Bachelor's degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related discipline
- 7+ years of hands-on experience in systems or infrastructure roles, ideally in an A&E or design-focused environment
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in a technical leadership or operations management role, with a proven track record of leading cross-functional teams and delivering complex infrastructure projects
- Experience with Autodesk software environments and the unique infrastructure needs of BIM/CAD/Rendering platforms
- Proven expertise in:
- Server OS management (Windows Server, Linux)
- Virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V)
- Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS/DHCP
- Storage technologies (NAS/SAN), especially high-performance file systems
- Cloud services (Microsoft 365, Azure, AWS)
- Backup and disaster recovery systems (e.g., Veeam, Commvault, Acronis)
- Scripting (PowerShell, Python) for automation
- Industry certifications (e.g., MCSE, Azure Administrator, VMware VCP, CompTIA Security+) preferred
- A systems mindset with a deep understanding of infrastructure needs in fast-paced design environments
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
- Ability to lead and deliver under pressure in deadline-driven environments
- Excellent interpersonal skills and a service-oriented approach
- Commitment to continuous learning and process improvement
- Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
- Life & Accident Insurance
- Disability Coverage
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Back-Up Daycare
- FSA & HSA
- 401(k)
- Pre-Tax Commuter Account
- Merit Scholarship Program
- Employee Discount Program
- Corporate Charitable Giving Program
- Tuition Assistance
- First Professional Licensure Bonus
- Employee Referral Bonus
- Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- Paid Bereavement Leave
- Flexible Work Arrangements