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It Operations Lead Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Serve as the senior hands-on technical lead for IT operations, working closely with ONI's outsourced IT support provider while taking ownership of core systems, infrastructure, security, access ...

Serve as the senior hands-on technical lead for IT operations, working closely with ONI's outsourced IT support provider while taking ownership of core systems, infrastructure, security, access ...

Technology Operations Lead

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

About the role We're hiring an IT Operations Lead to own the reliability, security, and scalability of our identity, endpoint, and IT infrastructure systems. You'll partner directly with the Head of ...

As IT Operations Manager, you will lead the team responsible for keeping Instacart running smoothly across our key hubs (San Francisco, New York, and Toronto). This role is part of the IT Operations ...

When you join RadNet as an IT Operations Team Lead, you will be joining a dedicated team of professionals who deliver quality, value, and access in the 21st century and align all stakeholders ...

IT Operations Team Lead

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$71K - $79K/yr

When you join RadNet as an IT Operations Team Lead, you will be joining a dedicated team of professionals who deliver quality, value, and access in the 21st century and align all stakeholders ...

When you join RadNet as an IT Operations Team Lead, you will be joining a dedicated team of professionals who deliver quality, value, and access in the 21st century and align all stakeholders ...

IT Operations Team Lead

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$71K - $79K/yr

When you join RadNet as an IT Operations Team Lead, you will be joining a dedicated team of professionals who deliver quality, value, and access in the 21st century and align all stakeholders ...

Lead all IT Operations teams, including Technical Support Specialist, the IT Service Desk, Infrastructure, Networking, Voice/Video Telecommunications, and End-User Computing support, ensuring high ...

As IT Operations Manager, you will lead the team responsible for keeping Instacart running smoothly across our key hubs (San Francisco, New York, and Toronto). This role is part of the IT Operations ...

Director, IT Operations

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$165 - $180/hr

Lead all IT Operations teams - Technical Support Specialists, IT Service Desk, Infrastructure, Networking, Voice/Video Telecommunications, and End-User Computing support - ensuring high availability ...

VP - IT Operations

Emeryville, CA ยท On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

As the VP of IT Operations, you will lead the strategy, delivery, and continuous improvement of Grocery Outlet's core IT operations functions-Infrastructure, Network, Service Desk, and Store ...

IT Operations Specialist

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Job Title: IT Operations Specialist Location: Sunnyvale, CA 94086 (** Onsite - Local Candidates ... Lead and support office IT initiatives, including future office moves and office expansion projects ...

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It Operations Lead information

See California salary details

$12

$27

$63

How much do it operations lead jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for it operations lead in California is $27.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $30.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between It Operations Lead vs Network Administrator?

AspectIt Operations LeadNetwork Administrator
CertificationsITIL, CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNACCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentOversees IT operations, manages teams, strategic planningMaintains and supports network infrastructure, troubleshooting
Industry UsageUsed across organizations managing IT services and operationsPrimarily in organizations with complex network needs

The It Operations Lead focuses on managing overall IT services, team coordination, and strategic initiatives, while the Network Administrator specializes in maintaining and troubleshooting network infrastructure. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in IT environments, but the Lead has broader responsibilities beyond network management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an IT operations lead?

To thrive as an IT Operations Lead, you need a strong background in IT infrastructure, systems administration, and project management, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as ITSM platforms (e.g., ServiceNow), network monitoring systems, and certifications like ITIL or CompTIA are typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring reliable IT services, coordinating teams, and responding swiftly to operational challenges.

What is an IT operations lead?

IT Operations Leads are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of an organization's IT infrastructure. They manage teams that handle network, server, and systems administration to ensure optimal performance, security, and reliability. Their role often includes coordinating incident response, implementing IT policies, and collaborating with other departments to support business goals. They also play a key part in planning upgrades and maintaining documentation for IT processes. Effective IT Operations Leads possess strong technical skills, leadership abilities, and problem-solving expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by an IT operations lead, and how can they be addressed?

As an IT Operations Lead, one of the most common challenges is balancing the need for system stability with the demand for rapid changes and updates. Managing incidents and minimizing downtime while coordinating with cross-functional teams can also be complex. To address these challenges, it's important to implement robust monitoring tools, maintain clear communication channels, and develop well-documented procedures for incident response and change management. Proactively identifying potential issues and fostering a culture of continuous improvement can also help mitigate operational risks.

What cities in California are hiring for It Operations Lead jobs?

Cities in California with the most It Operations Lead job openings:

Infographic showing various It Operations Lead job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,378 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
MBZUAI is a dedicated research lab focused on advancing AI research and fostering the next generation of AI builders. They are seeking an experienced IT Operations Lead to bridge their U.S. and UAE offices, ensuring the reliability, security, and efficiency of the end-user technology environment while providing exceptional customer service and support.
Responsibilities:
โ€ข Manage the overall health, uptime, performance, and day-to-day operation of the organization's IT environment.
โ€ข Lead and support office IT initiatives, including new office setup and expansion projects.
โ€ข Implement and manage office technology infrastructure, including storage solutions, networking, printers, and endpoint devices.
โ€ข Establish and maintain IT policies, procedures, and operational standards.
โ€ข Maintain a secure IT environment with a strong focus on data protection, compliance, and intellectual property security.
โ€ข Manage VPN access, endpoint security controls, and identity management processes.
โ€ข Ensure adherence to organizational security policies and best practices.
โ€ข Support security audits, compliance requirements, and risk mitigation initiatives.
โ€ข Administer Mobile Device Management (MDM) platforms and endpoint management solutions.
โ€ข Configure, deploy, secure, and maintain laptops, mobile devices, and other user hardware.
โ€ข Manage device lifecycle processes, including provisioning, upgrades, replacements, and decommissioning.
โ€ข Standardize and automate endpoint deployment and configuration where possible.
โ€ข Serve as the face of IT for employees, providing high-touch, white-glove support across the organization.
โ€ข Deliver IT onboarding and orientation for new hires.
โ€ข Set up and configure laptops, software, accounts, printers, and collaboration tools.
โ€ข Troubleshoot hardware, software, networking, and access issues with a strong customer-service mindset.
โ€ข Ensure a seamless employee experience from onboarding through ongoing support.
โ€ข Manage IT asset inventory, procurement, tracking, and lifecycle management.
โ€ข Coordinate purchasing and deployment of laptops, peripherals, and office technology equipment.
โ€ข Build and maintain relationships with technology vendors and service providers.
โ€ข Monitor contracts, warranties, renewals, and vendor performance.
โ€ข Act as a key liaison between U.S. and UAE operations, ensuring consistent IT standards and support.
โ€ข Coordinate across teams and time zones to maintain operational continuity and service excellence.
โ€ข Support business growth through scalable and efficient technology operations.
Qualifications:
Required:
โ€ข 5โ€“7 years of experience in IT Operations, Systems Administration, Infrastructure Support, or a related role.
โ€ข Experience managing endpoint devices, MDM platforms, and enterprise IT environments.
โ€ข Strong understanding of IT security, VPN technologies, access management, and compliance best practices.
โ€ข Experience supporting office infrastructure, including networking, storage solutions, printers, and collaboration technologies.
โ€ข Proven experience with IT asset management and vendor management.
โ€ข Excellent troubleshooting, communication, and customer service skills.
โ€ข Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
Preferred:
โ€ข Strong operational mindset focused on reliability, continuity, and service delivery.
โ€ข Comfortable balancing strategic IT initiatives with hands-on support responsibilities.
โ€ข Highly organized, proactive, and detail-oriented.
โ€ข Experience supporting geographically distributed teams and global operations.
Company:
Official account of Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. Dedicated to research, innovation, and empowering brilliant minds in AI. Founded in 2019, the company is headquartered in Abu Dhabi, ARE, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.