Lead IT Specialist

Prestage Farms; Iowa (LA); 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 in Louisiana seeks a Lead IT Specialist to oversee local IT systems. The role involves managing the IT team, coordinating system improvements, and ensuring optimal operation of production-critical technologies. Candidates should have an associate degree in Computer Information Technology and over 4 years of IT support experience. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package including health care and retirement plans.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of hands-on IT support/administration experience preferred in industrial environments.
• Industry/vendor certifications are welcomed but not required.

Responsibilities

• Supervise local IT team and coordinate with Corporate IT.
• Troubleshoot and maintain IT systems including PCs, printers, and network gear.
• Mentor and train IT Specialists on Standard Operating Procedures.

Skills

Problem-solving

Hands-on computer installation/repair

Microsoft Office knowledge

Windows OS expertise

Leadership skills

Effective communication

Team collaboration

Education

Associate degree in Computer Information Technology or related field

Tools

Windows Server

SQL Server

Ubiquiti/UniFi networking

Mobile-Device Management

IP Camera systems

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