WHAT IS AN infrastructure services manager jobs
An infrastructure services manager is a crucial role within an organization that is responsible for overseeing and managing the infrastructure services of a company. This includes the planning, implementation, and maintenance of various technology systems, networks, and hardware. The primary goal of an infrastructure services manager is to ensure that all infrastructure components are running smoothly and efficiently to support the overall operations of the organization. They play a vital role in ensuring that the company's technology infrastructure is up to date, secure, and aligned with business objectives and industry best practices.
WHAT USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION
In an infrastructure services manager role, there are several key responsibilities that one can expect to undertake. These may include:
1. Infrastructure Planning and Strategy: Developing and implementing long-term plans for the company's infrastructure, considering factors such as scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness.
2. Project Management: Overseeing infrastructure projects from inception to completion, ensuring that they are delivered on time and within budget.
3. System Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Monitoring and maintaining the performance, availability, and security of the company's technology systems, and addressing any issues or outages that may arise.
4. Vendor Management: Evaluating and selecting vendors for hardware, software, and other infrastructure services, as well as managing ongoing relationships and contracts.
5. Team Leadership: Managing a team of IT professionals, providing guidance, support, and mentoring to ensure the successful execution of infrastructure projects and tasks.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR POSITION
To excel in an infrastructure services manager position, there are several essential skills that one should possess. These include:
1. Technical Expertise: A solid understanding of various infrastructure technologies, such as servers, networks, storage systems, and virtualization. Proficiency in operating systems, database management, and cloud computing is also crucial.
2. Project Management: Strong project management skills, including the ability to plan, organize, and prioritize tasks effectively. Experience with project management methodologies, such as Agile or Waterfall, is highly desirable.
3. Communication and Leadership: Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with different teams, stakeholders, and vendors. The ability to lead and motivate a team is also essential for successful execution of infrastructure projects.
4. Problem-Solving and Troubleshooting: A proactive and analytical mindset to identify and resolve infrastructure-related issues promptly. The ability to think critically and troubleshoot problems is vital in ensuring the smooth operation of technology systems.
5. Business Acumen: A solid understanding of business objectives and the ability to align infrastructure strategies with these goals. This includes considering factors such as cost-effectiveness, scalability, and security to support the overall success of the organization.
HOW TO BECOME THIS TYPE OF SPECIALIST
Becoming an infrastructure services manager typically requires a combination of education, experience, and certifications. The following steps can help you on the path to becoming a specialist in this field:
1. Obtain a Relevant Degree: A bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is often required for entry-level positions. A master's degree can provide a competitive edge and open up advanced career opportunities.
2. Gain Experience: Building practical experience in IT infrastructure roles, such as system administration or network engineering, is crucial to develop the necessary technical skills and understanding of infrastructure components.
3. Acquire Certifications: Industry-recognized certifications, such as CompTIA Network+, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator, or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), can enhance your credibility and validate your expertise in specific technology areas.
4. Develop Leadership Skills: Taking on leadership roles within IT projects or seeking opportunities to manage small teams can help you develop the necessary leadership skills required for an infrastructure services manager position.
5. Stay Updated: The field of IT infrastructure is constantly evolving. It is essential to stay updated with the latest technologies, industry trends, and best practices through continuous learning, attending conferences, and participating in relevant professional associations.
AVERAGE SALARY
The average salary for an infrastructure services manager can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the size of the organization. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer and information systems managers, which includes infrastructure services managers, was $151,150 as of May 2020. However, it is important to note that salaries can range significantly, with entry-level positions starting around $90,000 and senior-level roles earning well over $200,000.
ROLES AND TYPES
Infrastructure services managers can work in various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, or government. Some common roles and types of infrastructure services managers include:
1. IT Infrastructure Manager: This role focuses on overseeing the overall IT infrastructure of an organization, including hardware, software, networks, and data centers.
2. Network Infrastructure Manager: Specializing in managing and maintaining an organization's network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls, and other networking equipment.
3. Cloud Infrastructure Manager: Responsible for managing and optimizing an organization's cloud-based infrastructure, ensuring scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness.
4. Security Infrastructure Manager: Focusing on the security aspects of an organization's infrastructure, including implementing and maintaining security measures, conducting vulnerability assessments, and responding to security incidents.
5. Data Center Infrastructure Manager: Managing the physical infrastructure of a data center, including power and cooling systems, racks, and cabling, to ensure the smooth operation of critical IT systems.
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR JOBS IN USA
Infrastructure services manager positions can be found in various locations across the United States. Some of the cities with a high demand for these professionals include:
1. San Francisco, California
2. New York City, New York
3. Seattle, Washington
4. Boston, Massachusetts
5. Austin, Texas
These cities are known for their thriving technology sectors and offer a wide range of opportunities for infrastructure services managers. However, it is important to note that job availability and salary levels can also vary based on the local cost of living and industry concentration.
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS
Infrastructure services managers utilize a variety of tools and technologies to effectively manage and maintain an organization's infrastructure. Some typical tools and technologies include:
1. Network Monitoring Tools: These tools allow managers to monitor the performance and availability of network devices, identify bottlenecks or issues, and proactively address them.
2. Configuration Management Tools: These tools help manage and automate the configuration of infrastructure components, ensuring consistency and reducing manual errors.
3. Virtualization Platforms: Virtualization software, such as VMware or Hyper-V, enables the creation and management of virtual machines, optimizing resource utilization and scalability.
4. Incident Management Systems: These systems facilitate the recording, tracking, and resolution of infrastructure-related incidents and service requests, ensuring timely response and efficient incident management.
5. Cloud Management Platforms: As organizations increasingly adopt cloud services, cloud management platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Microsoft Azure provide tools to manage and optimize cloud infrastructure, including provisioning, monitoring, and cost management.
IN CONCLUSION
An infrastructure services manager plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of an organization's technology infrastructure. With a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and strategic thinking, these professionals are responsible for planning, implementing, and maintaining the infrastructure components necessary for business success. By staying updated with the latest technologies and best practices, aspiring infrastructure services managers can position themselves for rewarding careers in this dynamic and growing field.