Senior IT Systems Administrator

Job Type Full-time Description The Senior IT Systems Administrator role is responsible for designing, implementing, documenting, supporting, and maintaining technology solutions and services for the organization. This role utilizes experience and technical knowledge in server technologies, networking, security, identity access controls, and administering systems to enable seamless business operations. This role also brings modern technical solutions to life from concept through implementation. Responsibilities: System Design & Implementation: Lead the design, configuration, and deployment of systems, services, and technology to support organizational needs. Architect and implement robust networking solutions, including VLANs, VPNs, and firewall configurations, ensuring secure and scalable infrastructure. Plan and execute technology upgrades and migrations, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations. Manage identity and access control systems including multi-factor authentication, role-based permissions, and secure identity management. System Administration: Administer and maintain on-premise and cloud-based servers, optimize performance, and manage storage and backups. Oversee user and system administration tasks such as account creation, access control, and role-based permissions, ensuring adherence to security policies. Manage and administer enterprise applications, databases, and virtual environments to support business operations. Maintain Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and other critical system services to ensure smooth operation. Conduct routine software updates, patches, and system upgrades to ensure systems remain secure, compliant, highly available, and up to date. Security & Compliance: Implement and manage network security protocols, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and patch management. Establish and enforce security policies, procedures, and protocols that align with industry standards and compliance requirements. Conduct vulnerability assessments, penetration tests, and risk assessments, addressing any identified gaps. Project Management: Manage multiple IT projects simultaneously, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and in line with business requirements. Coordinate with vendors and service providers to manage technology contracts, service-level agreements (SLAs), and system upgrades. Track and report on project milestones, performance metrics, and outcomes to leadership and stakeholders. Maintenance & Support: Monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot server environments, networks, and security systems to ensure high availability, optimal performance, and data integrity. Perform routine system audits, backups, and disaster recovery exercises to protect critical business data. Provide ongoing support and technical expertise to resolve escalated IT issues, ensuring timely and effective problem resolution. Oversee the administration and maintenance of cloud infrastructure, ensuring scalability and security. Assist in the development of and adherence to an Incidence Response Plan. Documentation & Knowledge Sharing: Create and maintain comprehensive documentation of systems, configurations, and administrative processes to ensure accurate knowledge transfer and system continuity. Develop user guides, technical documentation, and operational runbooks for the IT team and end-users. Train and mentor junior IT staff on systems management, troubleshooting, and best practices. Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Research and evaluate new technologies, tools, and best practices to improve the organization's IT infrastructure, efficiency, and security posture. Lead initiatives to modernize legacy systems and processes, ensuring the company remains at the cutting edge of technology. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align with business objectives, supporting scalability and growth. Leadership & Collaboration: Serve as a subject matter expert, providing technical leadership on Microsoft services, systems, networking, and security. Collaborate with department heads and other business units to ensure IT solutions align with business goals and operational needs. Provide strategic recommendations to improve system performance, reduce downtime, and enhance overall IT functions. Requirements Education: Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent work experience. Experience: 5 years of hands-on experience in designing and implementing technology solutions and services. Proven track record of designing, implementing, maintaining, and supporting enterprise-level infrastructure and networking solutions. Experience in managing and administering cloud-based Microsoft services including Intune, Exchange, Entra, Purview, and SharePoint. Experience administering on-premise Windows Server environments, including Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Group Policy, network shares, and other essential system services. Expert background in networking technologies, including switches, routers, firewalls, VLANs, VPNs, and wireless networks. Technical Skills: Proficiency in managing physical and virtual server environments and server operating systems. Expert understanding of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPNs), network security, and performance optimization. Experience with security best practices, including firewall configuration, identity and access management, encryption, patch management, and vulnerability assessments. Proficiency in scripting languages (PowerShell, Python, etc.) to automate tasks and optimize system management. Experience implementing and maintaining data backup solutions and disaster recovery procedures. Certifications (Preferred): MCSE or equivalent Microsoft certification CCNA or equivalent networking certification Soft Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to troubleshoot and resolve complex IT issues. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple projects simultaneously. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to system maintenance and improvement. Leadership and mentoring abilities, with experience guiding junior IT staff and providing technical expertise. Excellent time management and prioritization skills. Other Requirements: Ability to work occasional evenings or weekends as necessary for system upgrades, maintenance, or urgent technical issues. Strong commitment to continuous learning and staying up to date with evolving technologies and best practices.