Director of Information Technology / Systems Architect

Who We Are

Vortex Cold Storage, with cold storage locations in Albert Lea and Clearwater, MN and corporate offices in Plymouth, MN, specializes in providing temperature-controlled warehousing and logistics to food manufacturing companies in the Midwest. Vortex has a vision to be the industry leader in providing solutions- based cold chain services. To that end, Vortex is completing two additional expansion projects resulting in more space and a second operating location, both opening fall 2024.

Our mission aims to collaborate with our customers to deliver world class cold chain solutions by empowering our people to deliver dependability and innovation. Our values are being passionate, dependable, and nimble to enable our customers to succeed.  

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated IT Director to oversee the IT operations and strategy for all Vortex locations. This position requires a collaborative approach to managing business demands, delivering IT services, and aligning local operations with national strategies. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background, excellent project management skills, and experience with ERP and Warehouse optimization systems.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Technical Proficiency: Deep understanding of SaaS, cloud technologies, and OT systems. This includes knowledge of edge computing, IoT, and cybersecurity measures

Strategic Vision: Ability to align OT strategies with business goals. They should be able to foresee industry trends and integrate innovative technologies to maintain a competitive edge

Cybersecurity Focus: Strong emphasis on OT cybersecurity to protect against sophisticated cyber threats. This includes implementing zero-trust architectures and robust incident response plans, that don’t inhibit our ability to do business in a free and flexible manner.

IT-OT Convergence: Experience in integrating IT and OT systems to enhance real-time data sharing, analytics, and decision-making. This convergence is crucial for improving operational efficiency and reducing costs

Leadership and Collaboration: Excellent leadership skills to manage projects with limited resources, largely relying on the operations team to help with initial brainstorming and UAT acceptance. and foster a collaborative environment. They should be able to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical team members

Data-Driven Decision Making: Proficiency in using data analytics and AI to drive predictive maintenance, optimize operations, and improve asset performance

Adaptability: Ability to adapt to rapidly changing technologies and industry landscapes. They should be open to continuous learning and innovation, willing to explore new and uncharted solutions for an all-inclusive SaaS management /OT platform unique to Vortex. i.e., “Vortex Operating System”

Customer-Centric Approach: Focus on enhancing user experience and customer satisfaction by ensuring the reliability and efficiency of OT systems

Additional Responsibilities:

• Analyze business needs, recommend technical solutions, and establish completion timelines.
• Act as a liaison between the local business teams and the global IT department.
• Align local IT initiatives with the organization’s global strategies and priorities.
• Serve as a strategic business partner, bridging the gap between business demands and technical capabilities.
• Manage and maintain IT systems to support business operations.
• Oversee IT services delivery to ensure high quality and reliability.
• Provide technical support and guidance to staff, optimizing system usage.
• Implement IT policies and procedures to ensure data security, compliance, and operational efficiency.
• Coordinate disaster recovery planning and backup procedures.
• Lead IT projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery within budget.
• Evaluate project outcomes, identify issues, and take corrective actions as needed.
• Participate in hardware and software evaluations and manage vendor relationships.
• Prepare and manage the annual IT budget, analyzing variances and initiating corrective actions.
• Research emerging technologies and recommend strategies to enhance IT operations.
• Drive continuous improvement by staying informed of IT trends and applying best practices.

Existing Tech Stack:

• Korber (wms)
• Yard Management (yard management system)
• Limbe (maintenance management system)

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, MIS, or a related field.
• 8 years of IT management experience, preferably in a multi-site or manufacturing setting.
• Proven experience as an IT Manager or similar role.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a global team environment.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to make decisions under pressure.
• Experience in developing and implementing IT policies and procedures.

Additional Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• Willingness to travel between Albert Lea and Clearwater facilities, as well as occasional travel for meetings and professional development opportunities.

Join Vortex Cold Storage and become an integral part of a dynamic team committed to delivering exceptional service and driving sustainable growth in the cold storage industry. Apply now to take the next step in your career!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $130,000.00 - $160,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Compensation Package:

• Bonus opportunities
• Employee stock ownership plan
• Performance bonus
• Signing bonus
• Yearly pay

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Minneapolis, MN 55441

Salary : $130,000 - $160,000