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Director, IT & Security Operations job at Utilidata. Ann Arbor, MI. Utilidata is a fast-growing energy technology company using distributed artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate the clean energy transition and better serve utility customers. As the electric grid becomes more complex with the rapid growth of data centers, electric vehicles, distributed solar, batteries, heat pumps and extreme weather, utilities need real-time visibility of grid conditions. Utilidata's distributed AI platform, powered by our custom NVIDIA module, is transforming the way utility companies operate with real-time visibility at the grid edge to better utilize customer energy resources, reduce power outages, and enable quicker storm recovery. We are seeking an experienced Director of IT and Security to lead our information and security program and ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of our systems and data. This role will report to the Chief Experience Officer and work closely with Legal, People, Engineering, and Product teams to ensure alignment between security practices and business needs. This role will be responsible for developing and enforcing policies, managing IT infrastructure, leading incident response efforts, and ensuring ongoing compliance with SOC 2 and other industry standards. We are looking for candidates who are mission-driven, collaborative, adaptive, and enthusiastic about leveraging AI to drive operational efficiencies. This position is based in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement IT and security initiatives, aligned with industry best practices and company priorities
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all security audits and assessments working with third-party vendors and consultants as needed, including SOC 2
• Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of corporate IT systems, including cloud environments, identity and access management, endpoint protection, and SaaS platforms
• Ensure robust asset management, secure provisioning, and lifecycle management of hardware and software across the organization
• Develop and maintain internal security policies, procedures, and standards
• Implement company-wide security awareness training programs to foster a culture of security
• Manage the security risk management process, including vendor security assessments
• Conduct periodic risk assessments, vulnerability scans, and penetration testing
• Lead incident detection and response efforts, including forensics and root cause analysis
• Monitor and report on emerging threats, industry trends, and technology opportunities to inform internal stakeholders

Minimum Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in IT and information security, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Deep understanding of cybersecurity frameworks and best practices (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001, CIS Controls), including cybersecurity certification (CISSP or equivalent)
• Proven track record of maintaining SOC 2 Type II compliance
• Hands-on experience with IT infrastructure management, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP), and modern security tooling
• Ability to clearly present and communicate technical content to various audiences
• Experience managing one or more direct reports, external vendors, or cross-functional project teams
• Proven experience leveraging AI tools and best practices to enhance IT and security operations, with an understanding of how to scale their adoption across the organization
• Ability to travel up to 10% of the time

Enhanced Qualifications (Nice to Have)

• Experience working in critical infrastructure
• Additional cybersecurity certifications such as CISM, CISA, CEH
• Experience adhering to NERC-CIP standards
• Experience working with AI/ML platforms or data-intensive applications
• Familiarity with other compliance programs such as GDPR or CCPA

Salary Range

$155,000 to $185,000 depending on experience, plus a 10% annual bonus target. Salary will be commensurate with an individual's skills, training, years of experience, and in line with internal compensation bands. Stock options, commensurate with experience and in line with internal equity bands.

Location

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Our Commitments

Utilidata values the diversity of our team. We provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy or childbirth, genetics, genetic information, marital status, or status as a covered veteran or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state and local laws. We are committed to:

• Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that is welcoming, supportive, affirming and respectful
• Empowering employees to solve problems and work together to make a difference
• Providing mentorship and growth opportunities as part of a collaborative team
• A flexible work environment with flexible paid time off
• Competitive compensation and benefits, including health, dental, vision, and employer-match 401k