Head of IT/Security

Our Company

Whisper Aero is pioneering a more compelling and connected future by delivering cleaner, quieter, and more efficient propulsion solutions. Today's open rotor propulsion systems are challenged by safety, noise, and performance limitations at all scales. Whisper's breakthrough technologies allow aircraft to fly anywhere at any time without disturbing communities, at greater speeds, and with incredible improvements in efficiency and cost. Their innovations also enable a new generation of air moving products that can blend into the soundscapes of daily life. Whisper was founded by industry veterans, Mark Moore and Ian Villa, and continues to innovate a future that’s as considerate as it is compelling with its world-class team in Tennessee. 

About the Role 

Whisper Aero is looking for a Head of IT/Security to join our team. This person will be responsible for ongoing administration tasks required to support the network, identify any vulnerabilities and threats, implement security measures and mitigations, as well as to comply with reporting requirements of Whisper Aero’s upcoming Department of Defense (DoD) contracts. As Whisper Aero continues to grow and expand, the need for a robust IT network and physical security infrastructure increases to ensure that Whisper Aero’s facilities are secure and compliant with DoD cyber and security requirements. The IT/security plan should strike a balance between an emphasis on security and restrictions that hamper the effectiveness, efficiency and productivity of employees given the startup culture of the company. 

What You’ll Do 

• Assist team with daily IT needs, leadership, and training 
• Plan and oversee the installation and maintenance of computer systems, hardware, and networks
• Develop and implement policies related to network security, disaster recovery, and IT infrastructure
• Analyze resource utilization and develop strategies to optimize performance 
• Establish, measure, and define IT goals and maintain an IT roadmap 
• Monitor and analyze the success of IT initiatives and projects and continually develop and evaluate new technologies and tools for the company 
• Direct the activities of the help desk to ensure the IT needs of users are met
• Manage development projects to integrate new technologies into existing systems 
• Perform ongoing support and maintenance of all hardware, software, and network components
• Implement, monitor, and administer IT network infrastructure and security policy with best practices to protect company information and resources 
• Initiate long term security infrastructure improvements. 
• Manage security, passwords and backups. 
• Maintain all local software and hardware licensing to ensure conformance.
• Set up new user accounts and provide support and training on systems to new users. 
• Reevaluate and upgrade existing systems to maintain compliance while improving performance for Whisper Aero needs 

Required Qualifications 

• US Persons Status Required
• BS in Information Technology or related degree with a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills 
• Knowledge of industry-standard computer hardware and software systems
• Experience with network administration
• Experience managing on-premises servers, storage area networks (SAN), and network-attached storage (NAS) devices for scientific computing
• Experience and fluency in both Windows, Mac, and Unix operating systems.
• Familiarity with Cloud platforms
• Experience with Google Workspace, Zoom and other tools 

Bonus Qualifications 

• Experience working with Air Force, Department of Defense, and other Government Agencies
• Experience with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) compliance
• Competencies and Characteristics
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
• Strong technical, written, and verbal communication skills
• Proactive (Be an owner)
• Flexible and open-minded to balance

Benefits: 

• Top-tier Benefits: Employee-first focused comprehensive benefits package, minimum of 90% employer-paid plans for employees and dependents with optional HSA/FSA account offerings
• PTO & Federal Holidays: Starting at four weeks of paid time off for vacation, sick, and personal days
• Competitive Salary: Value-based compensation, plus enjoy Tennessee’s no-income-tax life
• End of Year Bonuses: For eligible employees
• We always have beverages and snacks available to energize you throughout the day, with paid team meals based on office demands.
• 401(k) 
• Relocation Assistance
• Professional Development Stipend

Whisper Aero is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Whisper Aero also participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each applicant's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.