Overview
We are looking for an experienced, hands-on IT Manager to lead IT systems and infrastructure across our German operations, which now span multiple offices. You will own the security, reliability and compliance of our environment as the company scales quickly in Germany, and you will lead the local IT team, starting with one IT Support Engineer and growing as we expand.
This is a technical leadership role, not a hands-off management role. You will make infrastructure decisions, not just execute them: choosing tooling, designing the network and identity setup across sites, and setting the standards the local team works to. At the same time you stay close to the systems and remain the senior technical escalation point. You will own network and systems administration, identity and access management, and cybersecurity operations, and you will drive the certifications and compliance work required to support our defense customers and joint venture.
This is a fast-moving environment where priorities shift quickly, so the ability to adapt fast, learn new domains quickly, juggle several offices and stay effective under changing demands is essential. Because the role handles export-controlled systems and information, it carries specific compliance and eligibility requirements (see Qualifications). You will work with the support and direction of the global IT function.
Responsibilities and Duties
Team leadership
- Lead the local IT team in Germany (initially one IT Support Engineer, growing with the company): set priorities, coach, review work and ensure the team delivers reliable support across all German offices.
- Act as the senior escalation point for infrastructure, security and access related issues, in coordination with the global IT function.
- Take part in hiring and onboarding of additional IT staff as the German footprint grows.
Infrastructure ownership and decisions
- Own infrastructure decisions for the German offices: evaluate options, propose and select tooling, network and cloud designs, and drive them through to implementation.
- Own the administration and maintenance of network infrastructure across all German offices, including firewalls, switches and wireless networks.
- Manage cloud platforms and licenses, ensuring availability, performance and cost control.
- Administer and maintain the VS-NfD network, ensuring it is configured, operated and documented in line with the applicable classified handling requirements.
- Lead ad-hoc infrastructure projects, including office build-outs and onboarding of new tools as the company expands across sites.
Security, identity and compliance
- Drive and maintain the IT certifications and compliance controls required for defense work and the joint venture, working within applicable export control obligations.
- Administer Identity and Access Management (IAM), including user provisioning, de-provisioning and periodic access reviews.
- Manage cybersecurity tooling, including endpoint protection, vulnerability management, SIEM and phishing simulation platforms.
- Maintain clear documentation for network configurations, IAM processes, security policies and compliance workflows, and ensure the team follows them.
Qualifications and Skills
- EU citizenship is required. This role involves access to export controlled systems and information, which carries legal eligibility requirements.
- Professional working proficiency in German and English.
- Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Systems Administration or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
- At least 3 to 5 years of experience in system administration or IT infrastructure, ideally in a regulated or security conscious environment.
- Strong knowledge of network infrastructure, SSO management and IAM systems.
- Solid understanding of cybersecurity practices, including endpoint security, threat detection and security auditing.
- A hands-on profile: you still configure, troubleshoot and fix systems yourself and expect to keep doing so, alongside guiding the team.
- Proficiency supporting a mixed environment of Linux and macOS endpoints.
- Comfortable working in a fast paced, changing environment, able to adapt quickly, reprioritise.
- Experience with, or willingness to work within, export control and defense compliance frameworks is a strong advantage.
- Relevant certifications (e.g. CompTIA, ITIL, or security focused credentials) are a plus.
- Strong problem solving and communication skills.
Benefits
- Flexible working hours
- Stock Options
- Generous holiday allowance
- Pension plan
- Extended social security package
- Enhanced maternity & paternity leave
About Auterion
We are building the leading software platform for AI-powered autonomous systems for enterprise and government customers. Our team is supporting the most important missions and solving the most challenging problems.
At Auterion, we bring together the sharpest minds who love to solve the hardest problems. Join a vibrant team built on innovation, openness, and excellence, where you’ll be empowered to develop ideas, collaborate across all levels, and make an impact that matters.