Strategic IT Leader: Growth, Security & Innovation

Paylocity; Kalona (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Open Gates Group is seeking an IT Manager to lead technology strategy and day-to-day IT operations across the organization. You will report to the COO and collaborate with department managers to understand challenges, solve problems, and make the systems they rely on more effective and efficient.

The role oversees business applications, hardware, software, networks, cybersecurity, website maintenance, and AI tool adoption, with a focus on security, reliability, and scalable growth.

Qualifications

• Associate or technical degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field.
• At least five years of progressive IT support or systems experience, including leadership or supervisory responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of network design, systems administration, systems integration, cybersecurity, data privacy, risk management, and disaster recovery.
• Experience managing software upgrades, system enhancements, and technology implementation projects.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop employees, manage priorities, and achieve operational results.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, project-management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly to employees at all levels of technical knowledge.
• Service-oriented, adaptable, and able to handle challenges with sound judgment, professionalism, and follow-through.
• Commitment to Open Gates Group’s mission, values, operating principles, and culture of development.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel between local company facilities as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop IT team members while setting clear expectations aligned with overall business priorities.
• Foster an IT culture focused on innovation, security, stability, service, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee business applications, hardware, software, telecommunications, internal networks, and other technology systems.
• Manage service desk operations and provide timely, practical support to employees.
• Partner with department managers to understand operational challenges and improve the systems, tools, and processes used by their teams.
• Oversee the maintenance, functionality, security, and performance of company websites in coordination with internal teams and outside partners.
• Define and implement a technology strategy that supports the current and future needs of Open Gates Group.
• Plan, prioritize, and manage IT projects from initial evaluation through implementation.
• Evaluate and implement technology and AI tools that streamline processes, improve productivity, and increase organizational capacity without automatically adding labor.
• Establish appropriate guidelines for the secure, responsible, and effective use of AI tools across the organization.
• Evaluate proposed technology changes based on business impact, cost, security, user adoption, and service.
• Manage software upgrades, system enhancements, integrations, and technology-related vendor relationships.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, efficiency, data accessibility, and the overall employee experience.

Skills

IT leadership

Technology strategy

Cybersecurity

Project management

Vendor management

Education

Associate or technical degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field

Job description

Open Gates Group is seeking an IT Manager to lead technology strategy and day-to-day IT operations across the organization. You will report to the COO and collaborate with department managers to understand challenges, solve problems, and make the systems they rely on more effective and efficient.

The role oversees business applications, hardware, software, networks, cybersecurity, website maintenance, and AI tool adoption, with a focus on security, reliability, and scalable growth.