IT Manager - Rockford Area

IT Manager | Rockford, MI

Salary Range: $96,000 - $143,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for technology infrastructure and supporting business operations? The Pivot Group is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Rockford seeking experienced IT Managers.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across Rockford seeking IT Managers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the reliable operation, maintenance, and security of all IT and OT systems supporting manufacturing operations.
• Lead the planning, implementation, and management of IT projects focused on production efficiency, automation, and data integration (e.g., ERP, MES, SCADA).
• Develop and enforce cybersecurity policies and procedures to protect critical manufacturing data, intellectual property, and operational technology.
• Provide timely and effective technical support to manufacturing personnel, minimizing production downtime caused by IT issues.
• Manage IT infrastructure, networks, servers, and endpoints across the manufacturing facility.
• Oversee IT vendor relationships, contracts, and service level agreements for hardware, software, and external support.
• Develop and manage the IT budget, assets, and software licensing to optimize costs and ensure compliance.

Recommended Qualifications

• Proven experience managing IT operations, infrastructure, and support teams within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing IT systems, including ERP, MES, SCADA, and factory automation.
• Experience with IT/OT convergence and managing operational technology (OT) environments.
• Demonstrated ability to align IT strategy with business goals and lead IT projects from conception to completion.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and best practices for industrial control systems and enterprise networks.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with Operational Technology (OT) environments (SCADA, MES, PLC systems)
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 principles, IoT, and smart manufacturing initiatives
• Knowledge of manufacturing compliance standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISA/IEC 62443)
• Certification or experience with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies

Job Titles That Should Apply

Information Technology Manager, Director of IT, Head of Information Technology, IT Operations Manager, IT Infrastructure Manager, Technology Manager, IT Services Manager

Why Pivot Group

The Pivot Group was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out. The Pivot Group offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.