IT Senior Systems Administrator

Primary Purpose:  
Performs advanced (senior level) systems administration work. Work involves coordinating the upkeep, configuration, and reliable operation of systems. Installs and upgrades computer components and system software. May supervise the work of others. Works under minimal supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. This is a senior-level position and involves substantial responsibility for the overall health, operations, and security of all computers and servers on Montgomery ISD infrastructure. The Senior Systems Administrator works closely with the Operations Manager, IT Operations Specialists, and other Systems Administrators to provide guidance and serve as a subject matter expert in fulfilling their respective responsibilities. It is the expectation that this position will be able to plan for and solve the most complex server, virtualization, storage, network, and security issues that may exist within the district.
Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, IT, MIS, or related field, or 7+ years' experience in a role as a systems/network administrator.  Certifications are a plus but not required.
• At least three (3) years of work experience in network infrastructure systems support, including network security software, MDM, and network operating system support.
• Functional knowledge of Python and PowerShell scripting/programming languages, Linux and Microsoft operating systems, compute/storage/networking/workstation technologies; VMWare, IaaS, and PaaS cloud systems administration, mobility, Identity and Access control/RBAC/Group Policy, implementing BC/DR procedures and tools, and system performance monitoring tools.
• Must have a demonstratable experience with Microsoft 365 admin, AzureAD/ADUC Admin, GPO/IAM, VMWare 6+, HP/Nimble/Aruba, Microsoft Server/Client OS support, and maintenance.
• Demonstrated ability to design solutions for the delivery of project tasks in an efficient manner, and ability to effectively collaborate on operational objectives with minimal guidance and supervision.
• Ability to plan, organize and document complex system design activities and to configure systems to be consistent with district security policies/procedures.
• Communicate technical/complex information both verbally and in writing to coordinate with other departments and internal IT staff.
• Perform multiple tasks concurrently and respond to emergency situations in a cool and organized manner.

   

• Responsible for ensuring systems availability at the datacenter and campus level. 
• Develops new system and application implementation plans, custom scripts, and testing procedures to ensure operational reliability.
• Ability to coordinate with project leads on technical project tasks and provide best practice solutions for objectives within the department.
• Develops and coordinates solutions and identifies task schedules to minimize the impact to district campuses for solution implementation.
• Provides leadership to Jr. staff on tasks related to systems operations and systems administration.
• Manages and obtains approvals for all change requests, particularly regarding scope and timelines.
• Ensure the security of the infrastructure by implementing industry best-practices regarding privacy, security, and regulatory compliance.
• Provide automation solutions through scripting languages such as PowerShell, Python, or Bash.
• Monitor, respond to, and resolve System Performance Monitoring alerts and messages.
• Manage, administer, and deploy solutions related to the cloud infrastructure (Google, Microsoft Azure, Mosyle, Microsoft 365, Intune).
• Triage and prioritization of issues and determine the impact on the business environment within the district.
• Ensures adherence to district Change Management and Incident response protocols and procedures.
• Develops tools, procedures, and training sessions for district campuses/departments, IT Desktop Support, and Help Desk staff.
• Manages and responds to incidents related to the data center, infrastructure, and endpoints, including hardware, software, and equipment (HVAC, MDF/IDF, Telecom/Fire Panel, UPS) located at each campus.
• Maintains up-to-date knowledge and stays current with technological developments in systems administration technology, networking, and security.
• All other duties as assigned.

   

• One or more programming/scripting languages and operating systems.
• System administration, hardware, and software management for a Microsoft Office/M365 environment.
• VMWare, vSphere, ESXi, including management of resource pools, VMFS, and virtual switch configuration.
• Storage/Compute architecture design and licensing administration
• Active Directory, Group Policy, RBAC, IAM Azure AD, SSO, and SCIM.
• Domain Name/SSL Administration/Management for root domains.
• BC/DR procedures and system administration.
• Cybersecurity best practices implementation and administration.
• Applies tools, techniques, and processes to track, log, and correct problems and incidents, ensuring the protection of assets and components from unauthorized change, diversion, and inappropriate use.
• Effective project management and listening skills.
• Customer service practices that are required to meet and exceed end-user expectations.
• Ability to connect and communicate effectively in a team environment; resolve issues efficiently and with minimal supervision.
• Ability to understand and anticipate district technology needs and apply the appropriate designs and technologies to develop and implement a solution according to department guidelines.
• Ability to communicate with business users and all levels of management
• Excellent analytical, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills.