IT Systems Manager

Tarter Farm and Ranch; Dunnville (KY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Tarter Farm and Ranch, a leading manufacturer, seeks an IT Systems Manager to steer strategic IT planning, implementation, and maintenance across the manufacturing stack. You will lead cross-functional teams, manage security programs, and drive continuous improvement to support scalable growth.

Responsibilities include aligning IT with production goals, overseeing system upgrades and disaster recovery, and collaborating with operations to optimize processes and data flows.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in IT/CS or related field required.
• 5+ years managing IT systems in manufacturing preferred.
• Strong knowledge of network, servers, and cybersecurity.
• Experience with ERP and MES systems.
• Proven IT leadership with multi-project coordination.
• Solid Cisco and VMware knowledge; Microsoft technologies familiarity.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain IT infrastructure including servers and networks.
• Develop IT policies to ensure security and compliance.
• Coordinate with operations to integrate IT solutions for efficiency.
• Oversee upgrades, backups, and disaster recovery planning.
• Lead IT support team and ensure high-quality service.
• Monitor performance and troubleshoot to minimize downtime.
• Evaluate new technologies to support manufacturing goals.
• Manage vendor relationships and IT contracts.
• Ensure IT and data security compliance with standards.

Skills

Network infrastructure

Server management

Cybersecurity principles

ERP systems

MES systems

IT leadership

Microsoft technologies

Cisco knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field

Tools

Cisco

VMware

Microsoft technologies (Intune/Autopilot etc.)

Palo Alto Firewalls

CUCM / Unity Connection

IP Security Cameras

Cisco Wireless LAN Controller

Auvik

SQL Server

Job description

About the Role:

The IT Systems Manager will lead the strategic planning, implementation, and maintenance of the organization's IT infrastructure within the manufacturing sector. This role is critical in ensuring that all IT systems operate efficiently, securely, and support the company's production and business objectives. The manager will oversee system upgrades, network security, and integration of new technologies to optimize manufacturing processes. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is essential to align IT initiatives with operational needs and compliance standards. Ultimately, the IT Systems Manager will drive continuous improvement in IT services to enhance productivity and support scalable growth.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience managing IT systems, preferably within the manufacturing industry.
• Strong knowledge of network infrastructure, server management, and cybersecurity principles.
• Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Proven ability to lead IT teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong Cisco Knowledge.
• Strong VMware Knowledge.
• Microsoft Technologies.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Palo Alto Firewalls (Deployment, Support, and Maintenance).
• IP Security Camera Troubleshooting, Design, and Implementation.
• Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM / Unity Connection / IM and Presence).
• Cisco Wireless LAN Controller configuration.
• Microsoft:
  • Intune / Autopilot
  • SharePoint Online / Teams
  • Certificate Authority
  • Terminal Services (RDS)
• Connecting to PLCs and extracting data from machinery.
• Windows Embedded.
• EDR Configuration.
• SQL Server Installation and Configuration (Express and Licensed).
• Previous experience supporting manufacturing IT infrastructure and machinery.
• Auvik

Responsibilities:

• Manage and maintain the organization's IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and manufacturing systems.
• Develop and implement IT policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure system security and compliance.
• Coordinate with manufacturing and operations teams to integrate IT solutions that improve production efficiency.
• Oversee system upgrades, backups, and disaster recovery plans to minimize downtime and data loss.
• Lead and mentor the IT support team, providing guidance and training to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Monitor system performance and troubleshoot issues promptly to maintain optimal operational continuity.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies and software to support manufacturing processes and business goals.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate contracts for IT products and services.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and internal standards related to IT and data security.

About Tarter:

Since 1945, Tarter has been building more than gates and equipment—we’ve been building careers, communities, and a proud legacy of American manufacturing. As the largest manufacturer of farm gates and animal management equipment in North America, our products help farmers, ranchers, hobbyist, and property owners work smarter and safer every day.

Headquartered in Dunnville, Kentucky, we pair small-town values with big opportunities. At Tarter, your ideas matter, your work is valued, and what you do makes a real impact for customers across the country.

Whether you’re on the shop floor, supporting customers, engineering solutions, or leading teams, you’ll find a workplace grounded in integrity, innovation, and teamwork. We believe in doing things the right way—and taking pride in work well done.

Join us and help shape the future of American manufacturing.