(Our Blog)

Do You Really Need an IT Manager for CMMC Compliance?

When small and mid-sized businesses start hearing about CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification), one of the first questions that comes up is:

“Do we need to hire an IT manager to handle all this?”

It’s a fair question – especially if you’ve never dealt with cybersecurity frameworks before. Let’s unpack what this means and what your real options are.

What an IT Manager Actually Does

An IT Manager (Information Technology Manager) oversees the technology that keeps a business running.

They set up computers, manage networks, help with email systems, handle software licenses, and make sure everything works together.

In a traditional company, their focus is on:

They are essential for business continuity but that doesn’t always mean they’re cybersecurity experts.

Why CMMC Is a Different Kind of Challenge

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is the Department of War’s framework to protect sensitive data across its supply chain.

CMMC isn’t just about keeping computers working, it’s about proving that your systems follow strict security standards.

That includes:

Access control

(who can see what)

Encryption

(how data is protected in storage)

Continuous monitoring

(detecting threats in real time)

Detailed documentation

(keeping your compliance paperwork audit-ready)

Regular assessments

(verifying your security controls with real evidence)

In short: IT keeps your systems functional; CMMC ensures they’re secure and compliant.

Even a skilled IT professional can face a steep learning curve if they’ve never implemented NIST SP 800-171 or dealt with DFARS 252.204-7012 requirements, both of which are part of CMMC.

The Hidden Cost of In-House Compliance

Hiring a full-time IT or Compliance Manager can easily cost between $80,000 to $160,000 per year, depending on experience and certifications. And that’s before benefits, training, or the cost of the cybersecurity tools themselves.

It’s a major investment, one that often doesn’t make sense for small contractors or growing teams that just need to stay compliant, not build a security department.

By comparison, with CMMC managed plans can range between $7,500 to $44,000 per year — fully managed, 24/7 monitored, and audit-ready. That’s a fraction of what a single in-house hire would cost, while gaining the support of an entire team with DoW experience.

You’re focused on operations, client work, and growth, not managing firewalls, endpoint protection, and CMMC documentation.

When Partnering Becomes the Smarter Option

Before investing in a full-time hire, ask yourself these quick questions:

Step 1: CMMC Role

Do I need an IT Manager whose only responsibility will be CMMC compliance?

If yes: You’ll likely save thousands by subcontracting.
If no: Then identify what type of IT expertise your team truly needs. Maybe you need a systems administrator, network engineer, or cybersecurity analyst but not necessarily a compliance manager.

Step 2: IT Workload

Do I need an IT Manager to handle software development or internal systems and to manage CMMC too?

If yes: The recommendation is not overloading your IT department. CMMC adds dozens of technicals and documentation controls a completely different skill set that can derail your team’s productivity.
If no: Great, but ensure someone is still accountable for network security, user access control, and continuous monitoring.

Step 3: 24/7 Readiness

Am I prepared for 24/7 monitoring, incident response, and audit documentation?

If not: That’s where partnering becomes the smarter choice.

You’ll get a full security and compliance team, SOC analysts, auditors, and documentation specialists, working alongside your existing staff without the overhead of new hires.

Transparent CMMC Pricing That Fits Your Level

At Cyber Security Solutions (CSS), we help contractors meet exactly the level that applies – no upsells, no inflated packages, no jargon.

Our pricing is fully transparent and scales with your team size and compliance scope:

Startup Plan — $200 / month / device (Level 1)

For small businesses handling only FCI. Covers up to 3 devices with managed firewall, VPN, SOC monitoring, encryption, and compliance dashboard.

CSS Enclave Plan — $1,250 / month (Level 1 & 2)

For growing teams (4–10 devices) needing full Level 2 alignment and 24/7 U.S.-based SOC support.

CSS Net Plan — $2,100 / month (Level 2 readiness)

For larger organizations (11–25 devices) needing continuous monitoring, documentation management, and enterprise-level control.

Ready to close your business gap?

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Ready to close your business gaps?

Schedule a call with an expert.

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Author

Kamal Ramesh

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close your gaps?

Schedule a call with one of our experts. Don’t worry it’s free!

(Our Blog)

Do You Really Need an IT Manager for CMMC Compliance?