Find & Apply For IT Manager / Director Jobs in Bakersfield, California

Job Description The IT Manager is responsible for overseeing and supporting all technology operations across two automotive dealership locations serving approximately 300 employees. This hands-on role ensures that systems are secure, reliable, and aligned with daily business needs while delivering responsive, service-oriented support to employees. Working closely with an internal IT Support Specialist and a Managed IT Service Provider, the IT Manager coordinates IT operations, supports dealership systems, maintains security and compliance standards, and builds strong partnerships across departments and with vendors. The role also supports evolving technologies, including EV charging infrastructure, while promoting efficient, secure, and uninterrupted dealership operations.

Essential Functions:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, including all important aspects of the job whether performed daily, weekly, monthly, or annually; and any duty that occurs at irregular intervals. Provide day-to-day IT support across multiple dealership locations, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations Supervise and support the IT Support Specialist, including task prioritization and performance guidance Coordinate with the Managed IT Service Provider (MSP) to manage escalated issues, monitor systems, and ensure timely resolution Oversee the performance, security, and reliability of Microsoft 365, network infrastructure, and dealership systems Ensure systems are maintained, updated, and backed up to support business continuity Support and maintain dealership applications, including DMS, CRM, and service/parts systems Partner with department managers to troubleshoot issues and improve workflows and system usage Promote and support compliance with the FTC Safeguards Rule and maintain the Written Information Security Program (WISP) Monitor and support IT security practices, including user access controls, data protection, and incident response coordination Oversee EV charging station systems, including vendor coordination and basic troubleshooting Travel between dealership locations as needed to provide onsite support and maintain operations Build and maintain effective working relationships with employees, vendors, and IT partners Perform other duties as assigned to support business and operational needs

Minimum Qualifications:

Minimum of 5 years of experience in information technology, including support, systems administration, or networking roles Demonstrated experience managing or coordinating with external IT vendors or Managed Service Providers (MSPs) Strong working knowledge of Microsoft 365, Windows environments, network systems, and general IT infrastructure Experience troubleshooting hardware, software, and connectivity issues in a business environment Understanding of IT security best practices, data protection, and regulatory compliance (experience with FTC Safeguards Rule or similar standards preferred) Proven ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and follow through to resolution in a fast-paced environment Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to supervise staff and collaborate across departments Excellent communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical users Valid driver's license and ability to travel between dealership locations as needed Ability to work onsite in a hands-on, service-oriented role supporting multiple locations Company Description Become a member of a winning team that offers growth opportunities, excellent earning potential, and leadership that fosters engaged team members. Jim Burke Ford Lincoln is one of the top five Ford dealers in California and a recipient of the Ford Motor Company President's Award—the highest honor bestowed upon a dealership. The dealership corporation was founded in 1913 and is one of the oldest in the nation. With almost 300 employees, our vision of "Building lasting relationships" has become the cornerstone of everything we do. We are always looking for talented, self-motivated individuals to join our team. If you think you are ready to be a part of an exciting team, then we encourage you to continue with this job application! Benefits An AWESOME place to work! Medical Insurance Dental Insurance 401(K) Retirement Plan with 100% Match Paid Vacation Paid Holidays Paid Sick Time Company-Paid Life Insurance Generous Discounts on Sales/Service/Rental Voluntary Benefits Paid Training Cell Phone Allowance IT Manager Work Schedule (subject to change depending on business needs): Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm