IT Manager

Company Overview

XStar Aviation is a mission‑driven aviation services company focused on building airmanship through in‑flight training to enhance operational success. Founded in response to critical gaps identified in the Air Force's Bomber Supplemental Trainer for Aircrew Readiness (BSTAR) study, XStar was created to deliver innovative, scalable training solutions that keep pace with today's complex national security environment. By fusing operational experience with state‑of‑the‑art technology, XStar provides Contractor‑Owned, Contractor‑Operated (COCO) aircraft and turnkey training solutions to the Department of Defense, ensuring aircrew are equipped, confident, and prepared to meet evolving mission demands. XSTAR combines agility, collaboration, and technical excellence to advance aircrew readiness across aviation communities. Physical operating locations will be established in Abilene TX and Rapid City South Dakota to support flying operations with other operating locations pending.

Position Overview

The IT Manager oversees the organization's information technology systems and infrastructure in a fast-paced startup environment. This role combines hands-on technical execution with strategic planning to ensure systems are secure, scalable, and aligned with business goals. The IT Manager serves as both a technical leader and trusted business partner, supporting daily operations while helping prepare the company for growth. The role also requires timely completion of projects and tasks and close collaboration with the IT Director, CISO, and ISSM to support compliance and oversight.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Own and manage the company's IT infrastructure, including hardware, software, networks, cloud platforms, and security tools.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all IT needs, including troubleshooting, vendor coordination, and system improvements.
• Design, implement, and maintain IT policies, procedures, and best practices appropriate for a startup environment.
• Assist ISSM in oversight of cybersecurity efforts, including access controls, endpoint protection, data backup, disaster recovery, and incident response as needed.
• Manage user provisioning/deprovisioning, device lifecycle management, and system access controls for employees and contractors.
• Manage third-party vendors, managed service providers (MSPs), and software tools.
• Partner with leadership to align IT strategy with business objectives, growth plans, and budget constraints.
• Support compliance requirements and audits as applicable (e.g., data privacy, SOC readiness, client security requirements).
• Plan for scalability by anticipating future technology needs related to headcount growth, new services, and remote work.
• Maintain documentation related to systems, configurations, licenses, and processes.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• May manage IT vendors, contractors, or junior IT staff as the organization grows.
• Responsible for prioritizing IT work and setting service expectations across the organization.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in IT, systems administration, or infrastructure management.
• Experience working in a startup or mall, fast growing organization strongly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of cloud services (e.g., Microsoft 365, Azure, AWS), networking, and endpoint management.
• Working knowledge of cybersecurity fundamentals and best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to balance hands on technical work with strategic planning.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience overseeing MSPs or hybrid inhouse/outsourced IT models.
• 2-5 years leadership experience
• Familiarity with compliance frameworks, client security requirements, or regulated environments.
• IT certifications (e.g., Microsoft, CompTIA, CISSP) a plus but not required.

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinking with a practical, execution-focused mindset
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Excellent communication skills with both technical and nontechnical audiences
• Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities
• High level of integrity and discretion when handling sensitive information

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
• May require occasional after-hours support for system maintenance or critical issues.

Disclaimer

This position description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications.

XSTAR is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristics as outlined by federal, state or local laws.