Information Technology (IT) Manager

Pure Lithium is seeking an experienced Information Technology Manager to serve as the company’s primary technology leader. This is a hands‑on role responsible for the reliability, security, and scalability of the technology systems supporting our business operations, research and development, and continued growth. The IT Manager will oversee IT operations, infrastructure, enterprise applications, cybersecurity initiatives, and end‑user support. Working closely with company leadership, IT Helpdesk Specialist, employees, vendors, and external technology partners, this person will develop technology strategies, implement best practices, and maintain a secure and efficient technology environment. This position is well suited for someone who combines strategic thinking with hands‑on technical expertise and thrives in a dynamic, fast‑paced startup. What You’ll Do IT Operations and Infrastructure Manage day‑to‑day IT operations, including end‑user support, device management, network connectivity, and systems administration. Administer and maintain Windows‑based systems, operating system updates, patch management, and endpoint security solutions. Develop and maintain IT policies, procedures, standards, and technical documentation. Oversee the hardware lifecycle, including procurement, deployment, inventory management, maintenance, and replacement planning. Support office technology infrastructure and ensure technology readiness as the company’s needs evolve. Provide responsive, service‑oriented technical support to employees with varying levels of technical expertise. Enterprise Applications and SaaS Administration Administer business‑critical platforms, including Microsoft365, 1Password, Jira, Confluence, and other enterprise applications. Manage user provisioning and deprovisioning, access controls, licensing, integrations, and application governance. Evaluate and recommend new software and technology solutions that improve organizational efficiency, security, and scalability. Maintain accurate system configurations, records, and administrative documentation. Cybersecurity and Risk Management Stay informed about emerging cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and industry best practices. Implement and monitor security controls, endpoint protection, identity and access management, and data‑protection measures. Coordinate cybersecurity initiatives with internal stakeholders and external service providers. Support incident response, security investigations, remediation efforts, and business continuity needs. Develop and support employee cybersecurity awareness initiatives. Promote adherence to company security standards and applicable regulatory requirements. Vendor and Project Management Serve as the primary point of contact for managed service providers, telecommunications providers, technology consultants, and other third‑party IT vendors. Coordinate vendor activities across daily operational needs and longer‑term strategic initiatives. Lead IT projects such as system implementations, upgrades, migrations, and process improvements. Monitor vendor performance, service levels, deliverables, and contract compliance. Communicate project plans, risks, dependencies, and progress clearly to stakeholders. Technology Strategy and Planning Partner with leadership to develop and execute technology roadmaps aligned with business objectives. Recommend infrastructure, security, and process improvements that support company growth. Assist with annual IT budgeting, technology forecasting, procurement planning, and capital planning. Identify opportunities to strengthen operational resilience, standardization, and efficiency. What You’ll Bring Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field. At least five years of progressive IT experience in a professional environment, including responsibility for systems administration, infrastructure support, and technology operations. Strong knowledge of Windows administration, PowerShell scripting, endpoint management, patch management, and system updates. Experience administering enterprise software, SaaS platforms, user access controls, and licensing. Experience with remote monitoring and management platforms such as Kaseya, LogMeIn, NinjaOne, or similar technologies. Working knowledge of cybersecurity principles, identity and access management, endpoint security, data protection, and risk mitigation. Demonstrated experience managing external vendors and coordinating cross‑functional technology initiatives. Strong troubleshooting, analytical, organizational, and project‑management skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. A customer‑service mindset and the ability to explain technical concepts clearly to employees across different skill levels. Strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and a high level of accountability and ownership. Preferred Qualifications Experience administering Atlassian products, particularly Jira and Confluence. Experience supporting Microsoft365, Azure, and other cloud‑based environments. Relevant certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Network+, Microsoft, Azure, CISSP, or equivalent credentials. Experience working in a startup or high‑growth organization. Experience developing IT policies, technology standards, or cybersecurity programs. Work Environment This position is based fully onsite at Pure Lithium’s headquarters at in Chicago, Illinois. Located in West Loop, Fulton Market Area. Regular business hours are Monday through Friday. Availability is required during standard operating hours to support employees, systems, and business operations. Occasional work outside normal business hours may be necessary for critical maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, security incidents, or business continuity needs. The role involves regular interaction with employees, leadership, vendors, and external technology partners. The IT Manager must be comfortable balancing strategic planning with hands‑on technical support. The position requires the ability to move throughout office, laboratory, and manufacturing environments as needed to support users and technology systems. Join Pure Lithium and help build the secure, scalable technology foundation behind the next generation of lithium metal batteries. About The Company Pure Lithium is a disruptive lithium metal battery technology company led by inventor and lithium expert, CEO Emilie Bodoin. The Company’s novel Brine to Battery technology combines metal extraction and anode production, unlocking unconventional sources of lithium. The resulting pure lithium metal anode is the core component of our lithium metal battery, a step change improvement over today’s lithium‑ion technology in cell performance, cost, and safety. The battery is free of graphite, cobalt, nickel, and manganese. Benefits Fully covered health and dental insurance Generous vacation time Maternity and paternity leave Pre‑Tax Commuter Benefit Vibrant and supportive team Pure Lithium is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to unlocking innovation and achieving its mission with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Pure Lithium does not discriminate in recruiting, hiring, training or promoting, on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, medical condition, age, U.S. military or protected veteran status, union membership, or political affiliation. We maintain a drug‑free workplace. #J-18808-Ljbffr