The Lead IT Specialist is the primary on-site contact for all IT systems supporting our pork-processing facility. You will supervise the local IT team, coordinate with Corporate IT, and ensure the reliable operation of production-critical technologies. (weighing, labeling, traceability, stun, QA, shipping, maintenance, PCs, printers, and core network infrastructure).
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Leadership & Oversight
– Assign daily tasks, set priorities, and design shift schedules that maximize coverage while controlling overtime.
– Mentor, coach, and train IT Specialists; document and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
– Participate in recruiting and onboarding to build a cohesive, high-performance team.
• Systems Support & Improvement
– Coordinate implementation of new technologies and plant start-ups with Corporate IT.
– Lead root-cause investigations for IT incidents and drive preventive actions.
– Evaluate existing solutions, recommend upgrades, and provide regular feedback to Corporate IT.
• Operational Execution
– Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain PCs, printers, network gear, and industrial IT equipment.
– Oversee contractors and vendors performing IT-related work on-site.
– Maintain accurate documentation of infrastructure, wiring, and configurations.
• Other Duties
– Perform additional tasks or projects as assigned to support plant operations.
CORE COMPETENCIES
• Proven problem-solver and self-starter; able to thrive in a fast-paced production environment
• Hands-on skills in computer, printer, and network installation/repair
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Windows OS, Windows Server, and traceability software
• Strong low-voltage and basic electrical aptitude (fiber optic testing, circuit fundamentals)
• Natural leadership with excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Service-oriented mindset and effective team collaboration
Requirements
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
• Associate degree in Computer Information Technology (or related field) OR equivalent practical experience
• 4+ years of hands-on IT support/administration (industrial or manufacturing setting preferred)
• Industry/vendor certifications are welcomed but not required
PREFERRED TECHNICAL BACKGROUND
• Carlisle Symphony Traceability, Marel Inova, or other production floor MES
• Windows Server, Windows Desktop (incl. Windows Embedded)
• SQL Server administration
• Mobile-Device Management (MDM)
• Ubiquiti/UniFi networking
• Physical access-control systems
• IP Camera systems
• Low-voltage and fiber optic cabling/testing
Benefits
Agriculture has changed a lot since 1983 when Bill and Marsha Prestage started Prestage Farms in North Carolina. But today, we still farm and operate our businesses with the same family values they instilled 40 years ago as we strive to produce top-quality pork and turkey.
The Prestage Farms family of companies now includes our base in North Carolina as well as farm production divisions located in South Carolina, Mississippi, Iowa, and Oklahoma. In addition, we have three different protein processing divisions: Prestage Foods in North Carolina (turkey) and Prestage Foods of Iowa (pork), and Prestage Foods in South Carolina (turkey).
Our Prestage Farms and Prestage Foods team of more than 2,700 employees and 450 contractor farm families share a commitment to food safety and the well-being of our animals, our environment, and our communities that we call home. Together, we embrace the Prestage family values of doing each job well and treating people fairly while continually looking for ways to improve and advance the processes that allow us to produce the highest quality pork and turkey at a reasonable cost.
