IT Manager/Systems Administrator (Microsoft 365, SonicWall, UniFi & Infrastructure)

About Us

AWT World Trade Group is a leading manufacturer serving the screen printing industry through multiple brands, including AWT, GPI Parts, Vacuum Tables, Drying & Storage Racks, and Specialized Safety Products. We are seeking a hands-on IT Manager / Systems Administrator to take ownership of our entire technology environment and support our continued growth.

This is not a corporate IT role with multiple specialists. This is a highly independent position where you will be the primary IT resource responsible for everything from infrastructure planning and cybersecurity to troubleshooting printers and supporting end users.

Position Summary

We are looking for a self-motivated IT professional who is comfortable wearing multiple hats. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable managing Microsoft 365 and infrastructure, troubleshooting printers, maintaining VPN connectivity, supporting users, working with vendors, and making updates to older PHP and WordPress websites.

You do not need to be an expert developer, but you must be willing and able to leverage AI tools such as ChatGPT and other resources to troubleshoot, maintain, and improve existing web applications and integrations.

This role serves as the company's primary IT resource and requires a hands-on professional capable of supporting users, managing infrastructure, maintaining websites, overseeing cybersecurity practices, and leading technology projects across multiple business units.

Responsibilities

• Infrastructure & Network Management
• Manage Microsoft 365, Exchange Online, Entra ID (Azure AD), and endpoint administration
• Administer SonicWall firewalls, VPNs, network switches, and internet connectivity
• Manage and maintain UniFi networking infrastructure, including wireless access points, switches, and network monitoring
• Maintain Windows servers, backups, and disaster recovery systems
• Monitor system performance, availability, and network health
• Plan and execute infrastructure upgrades and technology projects
• Manage user accounts, permissions, and access controls
• Cybersecurity
• Maintain cybersecurity best practices across the organization
• Manage MFA, endpoint protection, email security, and user access controls
• Respond to security incidents and vulnerabilities
• Coordinate with third-party security and compliance vendors
• Assist with security awareness and technology policy implementation
• Help Desk & End User Support
• Provide Tier 1 through Tier 3 technical support for employees
• Troubleshoot desktops, laptops, printers, scanners, phones, and mobile devices
• Set up and deploy new workstations, hardware, and software
• Resolve day-to-day technical issues quickly and professionally
• Support remote users and VPN connectivity
• Create and maintain IT documentation and procedures
• Web & Business Applications
• Support and maintain multiple company websites
• Make updates to legacy PHP-based websites
• Manage and maintain WordPress websites
• Work with internal teams and vendors on website improvements and integrations
• Utilize AI tools and online resources to assist with troubleshooting and development tasks
• Coordinate with outside developers when needed
• Telecommunications
• Manage VoIP phone systems and related vendors
• Troubleshoot telecom and connectivity issues
• Support phone system administration and user provisioning
• Vendor & Project Management
• Manage relationships with IT vendors, telecom providers, and service partners
• Obtain quotes and evaluate technology solutions
• Lead technology implementations and infrastructure improvements
• Manage IT purchasing and technology assets
• Coordinate projects from planning through deployment

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on IT experience
• Strong Microsoft 365 administration experience
• Experience managing SonicWall firewalls and VPNs
• Experience managing UniFi networking environments
• Knowledge of Windows Servers including 2012, 2016, and 2022, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and networking fundamentals
• Experience with Linux servers including Ubuntu, Apache, PhpMyAdmin, and MySQL
• Experience supporting printers, PCs, laptops, and end users
• Working knowledge of WordPress administration and maintenance
• Basic understanding of PHP websites and web technologies
• Ability to troubleshoot and maintain legacy web applications
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously

Preferred Qualifications

• Manufacturing industry experience
• Experience with HubSpot or similar CRM platforms
• Experience managing multiple websites and domains
• Experience with eCommerce platforms
• Experience with ERP or business management systems
• Familiarity with SQL databases and reporting tools
• Microsoft, CompTIA, SonicWall, UniFi, or cybersecurity certifications

Who Will Succeed in This Role?

• Someone who enjoys solving problems and figuring things out
• Someone comfortable being the sole IT resource for the company
• Someone who can move from a server project to fixing a printer without hesitation
• Someone who takes ownership and follows projects through to completion
• Someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment where every day is different

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Professional development opportunities
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• 401(K)
• Stable, growing company with long-term career potential

Apply Today

If you are a hands-on IT professional who enjoys managing infrastructure, supporting users, solving technical challenges, and owning an entire technology environment, we would like to hear from you.

AWT World Trade Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Pay: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience

• hands-on IT: 5 years (Required)

Ability to Commute

• Chicago, IL 60641 (Required)

Work Location: In person