Join a rapidly growing technology-driven organization as an IT Support Specialist in a contract-to-hire role based in Grapevine / Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. This position goes far beyond traditional help desk responsibilities, blending cybersecurity compliance, automation engineering, and AI-driven operational efficiency into a single multidisciplinary technical role. You'll function as a technical right-hand to IT leadership, helping monitor and secure the IT environment while developing automation and supporting compliance initiatives. The role plays a critical part in supporting cybersecurity posture and preparing the organization for CMMC Level 2 certification by Q4. This position is ideal for a curious, hands-on technologist who thrives in a fast-moving startup-style environment and enjoys building systems, improving processes, and solving complex technical problems. The company operates in a highly collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where experienced professionals leverage emerging technologies, automation, and AI to build scalable operational systems.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join a rapidly growing organization during a critical growth phase with significant expansion expected over the next several years. Unlike traditional IT support roles limited to help desk tickets, this position combines cybersecurity operations, automation development, and AI integration into a unique multidisciplinary role. You'll have direct collaboration with IT leadership, functioning as a trusted technical partner rather than just support staff. The focus on CMMC Level 2 certification provides valuable experience in regulated environments and defense sector compliance that's highly sought after in the market. You'll gain hands-on experience developing SIEM capabilities, implementing security monitoring, and building automation that drives operational efficiency. The startup-style environment means your contributions have immediate, visible impact while working alongside experienced professionals. With opportunities to develop automation scripts, build API integrations, and implement AI-enabled workflows, you'll expand your technical skillset across multiple domains. The company values hands-on capability over certifications, creating an environment where practical problem-solving and demonstrated skills are rewarded. The role offers significant autonomy to build systems from the ground up while having high levels of trust and access to sensitive systems. Starting onsite in Grapevine/DFW area with flexibility once core systems are established provides work-life balance after the initial buildout phase.
Required Skills & Experience
- Experience with cybersecurity operations or security-focused IT support
- Scripting and automation experience using Python, Bash, or similar languages
- Experience working with APIs and system integrations
- Familiarity with SQL databases and data management
- Understanding of NIST cybersecurity frameworks
- Experience supporting or preparing organizations for CMMC compliance
- Experience with system monitoring, logging, and auditing practices
- Ability to operate as AI power user, integrating AI tools into workflows
- Strong problem-solving ability and technical curiosity
- Comfort working in early-stage, fast-moving environment
- High adaptability and resilience in dynamic situations
- Strong communication skills and comfort with direct feedback
- Growth mindset and desire to build systems from ground up
- Ability to handle high levels of trust and access to sensitive systems
- Located in or willing to relocate to Dallas-Fort Worth / Grapevine area
- Comfortable with onsite work during initial role buildout
Desired Skills & Experience
- Experience with SIEM platforms and security monitoring
- Familiarity with MCP protocols
- Exposure to Notion API integrations
- Background in infrastructure automation or DevOps practices
- Security certifications such as CompTIA Security+ (hands-on experience valued more than certifications)
- Experience with CMMC Level 2 compliance preparation
- Understanding of defense sector regulatory requirements
- Python development beyond basic scripting
- Experience building internal tools and integrations
- Background in startup or high-growth environments
- Database administration or advanced SQL skills
- Cloud security experience
- Vulnerability assessment and remediation experience
What You Will Be Doing
Tech Breakdown
- 30% Cybersecurity Compliance and Monitoring (CMMC prep, NIST frameworks, security monitoring)
- 25% Automation and Scripting (Python, Bash, API integrations, operational tooling)
- 25% IT Operations Support (infrastructure support, system maintenance, technical troubleshooting)
- 20% AI Integration and Innovation (AI-enabled workflows, operational efficiency initiatives)
Daily Responsibilities
- 40% Security and Compliance Work (monitoring, logging, auditing, CMMC preparation)
- 30% Automation Development (scripting, API integrations, tool building)
- 30% IT Support and Collaboration (system support, leadership collaboration, infrastructure projects)
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