Lead IT Specialist

Prestage; Eagle Grove (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)

Retirement Plan (401k)

Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick)

Short Term Disability

Job summary

A leading pork-processing company is seeking a Lead IT Specialist to manage IT systems in Eagle Grove, Iowa. This role involves supervising the local IT team, coordinating with corporate IT, and maintaining critical production technologies. Ideal candidates have at least 4 years of experience in industrial IT support and possess strong problem-solving skills along with a relevant degree. This position comes with competitive benefits including healthcare, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of hands-on IT support/administration experience preferred in an industrial setting.
• Proven problem-solver; thrives in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong low-voltage and basic electrical aptitude.

Responsibilities

• Supervise local IT team and coordinate with Corporate IT.
• Troubleshoot and maintain PCs, printers, and network gear.
• Lead root-cause investigations for IT incidents.

Skills

Problem-solving

Hands-on skills in installation/repair

Leadership and communication

Service-oriented mindset

Education

Associate degree in Computer Information Technology

Tools

Microsoft Office

Windows Server

SQL Server

Job description

The Lead IT Specialist is the primary on-site contact for all IT systems supporting our pork-processing facility. You will supervise the local IT team, coordinate with Corporate IT, and ensure the reliable operation of production-critical technologies. (weighing, labeling, traceability, stun, QA, shipping, maintenance, PCs, printers, and core network infrastructure).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Oversight

• Assign daily tasks, set priorities, and design shift schedules that maximize coverage while controlling overtime.
• Mentor, coach, and train IT Specialists; document and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Participate in recruiting and onboarding to build a cohesive, high-performance team.

Systems Support & Improvement

• Coordinate implementation of new technologies and plant start-ups with Corporate IT.
• Lead root-cause investigations for IT incidents and drive preventive actions.
• Evaluate existing solutions, recommend upgrades, and provide regular feedback to Corporate IT.

Operational Execution

• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain PCs, printers, network gear, and industrial IT equipment.
• Oversee contractors and vendors performing IT-related work on-site.
• Maintain accurate documentation of infrastructure, wiring, and configurations.

Other Duties

• Perform additional tasks or projects as assigned to support plant operations.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Proven problem-solver and self-starter; able to thrive in a fast-paced production environment
• Hands‑on skills in computer, printer, and network installation/repair
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Windows OS, Windows Server, and traceability software
• Strong low‑voltage and basic electrical aptitude (fiber optic testing, circuit fundamentals)
• Natural leadership with excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Service‑oriented mindset and effective team collaboration

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate degree in Computer Information Technology (or related field) OR equivalent practical experience
• 4+ years of hands‑on IT support/administration (industrial or manufacturing setting preferred)
• Industry/vendor certifications are welcomed but not required

PREFERRED TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

• Carlisle Symphony Traceability, Marel Inova, or other production floor MES
• Windows Server, Windows Desktop (incl. Windows Embedded)
• SQL Server administration
• Mobile‑Device Management (MDM)
• Ubiquiti/UniFi networking
• Physical access‑control systems
• IP Camera systems
• Low‑voltage and fiber optic cabling/testing

BENEFITS

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick)
• Short Term Disability