Sentinel Technologies is looking for an IT Operations Manager to join a top-tier Chicago area institution. In this role you will help expand and enhance the organizations technology services. This role will be key in managing IT support, strengthening campus infrastructure, and contributing to innovative technology solutions. Reporting to the Director of Information Technology, this position will also lead a team and ensure smooth IT operations across campus. Your light and engaging approach to IT will help build connections while driving the technology initiative within the organization. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys problem-solving, improving IT systems, and working within a dynamic community. If you're passionate about technology and innovation, we'd love to hear from you! This role is a contract-to-hire role requiring onsite in Lake Forest, IL working in a professional setting.

What You’ll Do:

• Maintain an engaging yet fun delivery of IT solutions and ideas for end users.
• Lead and manage the IT Service Desk to provide top-tier support.
• Maintain and secure networks, servers, and telecom systems for reliable access.
• Monitor and improve system performance for maximum uptime.
• Oversee software licensing, cloud services, and IT applications.
• Manage and configure servers, operating systems, and devices.
• Handle mobile device plans and assignments.
• Conduct security audits and ensure data protection.
• Oversee IT projects, from infrastructure upgrades to system installations.
• Work with faculty, staff, and students to provide strong IT support.
• Manage vendor relationships and IT-related contracts.
• Develop IT policies, best practices, and cost-saving strategies.
• Resolve escalated technical issues and ensure data compliance.

• Bachelor's degree in IT or a related field is required, a Master’s Degree is a plus.
• Experience in IT management, systems, and network administration is required.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are required.
• Project management experience is preferred.
• Google Workspace and SaaS administration experience is preferred.
• Experience with virtualization platforms (Nutanix preferred).
• Meraki networking, firewalls, and wireless is required.
• DNS/DHCP administration (ApplianSys preferred).
• Windows Server, Active Directory, and RADIUS experience.
• SIS/LMS systems (Veracross/Canvas preferred).
• MDM/endpoint management (Meraki/Intune preferred).
• Familiarity with Windows, Mac, iPads, and related hardware/software.
• Industry certifications (CompTIA, Cisco, Meraki, Google, Microsoft, etc.) are preferred
• Legally authorized to work in the US without sponsorship
• Must demonstrate a “can-do” attitude
• We focus on candidates that display our “ACE” factor – Attitude, Compassion, and Enthusiasm to deliver quality solutions with exceptional customer service.

We focus on candidates that display our “ACE” factor – Attitude, Compassion, and Enthusiasm to deliver quality solutions with exceptional customer service.

Compensation Range: 

$80,000-$120,000

What you get:

We offer weekly competitive pay, medical, dental, vision, 401K and more.

MOTIVATED…..make IT happen!

Sentinel Technologies, Inc. has been rated a top workplace every year since 2012!

About Us:      

Sentinel delivers solutions that can efficiently address a range of IT needs – from security, to communications, to systems & networks, to software applications, to cloud and managed services; all of which include our staffing solutions for our clients. Since 1982, Sentinel has grown from providing technology maintenance services to our current standing as one of the leading IT services and solutions provider in the US. We have aligned with many of today’s global technology leaders including Cisco, Dell, VMware and Microsoft. Sentinel services customers both nationally and internationally with primary support operating centers in Downers Grove (HQ), Chicago, and Springfield, IL; Phoenix, AZ.; Lansing, and Grand Rapids, MI; Milwaukee, WI; and Denver, CO.

If you are MOTIVATED… you can make IT happen at Sentinel. Our commitment to our employees is to create a work environment that encourages creativity, an entrepreneurial spirit, fosters growth through certification and hands-on training, and values a team-oriented culture with rewards based on impact!

If you share our passion about what technology can do and want to be part of a top workplace environment – we’d like to have you join our team.  Learn more at www.sentinel.com/careers.

As part of Sentinel's employment process, candidates will be required to complete a background check. Only those who meet the minimum requirements will be contacted. No phone calls please.

Sentinel is proud to be an equal opportunity employer including disability and veterans. In accordance with Title VII and state regulations, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, genetics, disability, military, veteran status or any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance in applying for a position, please contact SentinelHR1@sentinel.com.

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