Systems Administrator

Reporting to the IT Systems Architect and working closely with the Network Administrator, the Systems Administrator provides technical and administrative support for server hardware, storage hardware, network and server operating systems, and server-based applications and services. This individual must maintain adequate knowledge of existing and proposed hardware and software in order to maximize efficiency and user satisfaction. The Systems Administrator constantly strives to identify, implement and maintain technologies that best serve The Hotchkiss School.

He or she may also perform ITS department responsibilities involving LAN/WAN network infrastructure. This position manages server operating systems, cloud based systems, Microsoft Active Directory, and other server-based applications and services. The Systems Administrator may also supervise external contractors and must be experienced in leading and managing IT projects.

As a member of the ITS team, the system administrator also resolves tier 2 and tier 3 tickets as assigned through the ticketing system. All ITS staff are included in an on-call roster for critical after hour and weekend issues. Occasionally extra hours are required due to special project work, school functions or after hour critical issue resolution.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Systems implementation and development
  • Plans, installs, and configures campus-wide enterprise equipment and software, coordinating assistance from third parties when necessary
  • Develops and maintains installation and configuration procedures
  • Anticipates needs and works proactively to implement solutions
  • Evaluates new technologies, both hardware and software solutions
  • Installs, configures, optimizes, supports and secures all server operating systems.
  • Manages Active Directory Group Policy
  • Installs and oversees the maintenance and support of server-based applications and services.
  • Participates in technology planning and operational activities to ensure IT objectives are addressed
• Systems maintenance, and documentation
  • Performs maintenance and troubleshoots campus-wide enterprise equipment
  • Analyzes and resolves problems
  • Monitors critical system parameters such as logs and performance, and reacts to problems at all times without prompting
  • Applies operating system patches, upgrades, and configuration changes on a regular basis
  • Assures the creation, existence, quality, and accuracy of necessary server / systems related documentation. Maintains full, current documentation for all systems and processes.
  • Automates and streamlines tasks to improve operational efficiency.
  • Regularly reports to management regarding system health, uptime, security, and ongoing project progress.
  • Maintains adequate knowledge of operating systems/application software being used to provide high level of support to users
  • With Systems Architect, implements and manages backup and disaster recovery systems and policies. Plays a key role in disaster recovery and business continuity planning.
  • Assists in the development of appropriate procedures and policies to maintain consistency, effectiveness and efficiency of operations
  • Manages end user accounts, permissions, access rights, and storage allocations in accordance with best-practices regarding privacy, security, and regulatory compliance.
  • Works collaboratively with the Systems Architect on strategic systems management, infrastructure, disaster recovery planning and security initiatives.
• Systems monitoring and security
  • Monitors daily backup operations ensuring all file systems and data are backed up to primary and secondary locations
  • Ensures the integrity and security of enterprise data on host computers, multiple databases, and during data transfer in accordance to business needs and industry best-practices regarding privacy, security, and regulatory compliance.
  • Assistance in hardening and addressing vulnerabilities on server operating systems
  • Assists Systems Architect in the remediation of IT risk review findings
  • Works with Systems Architect on producing information for audit requests
• Project management
  • Efficiently manages all aspects of assigned projects, from requirement gathering through design and implementation.
  • Provides project updates to both technical and non-technical individuals
• Additional duties and responsibilities as needed and assigned.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Bachelor's Degree in a technical discipline such as Computer Science or related field with a minimum of 5-7 years of progressively responsible technical experience managing a network and systems operation or equivalent experience
• Current MCSE, A+, and Network+ certifications or equivalent experience a plus
• Demonstrated ability to negotiate and manage vendor agreements
• Experience managing detailed information technology projects.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Windows Server 2008, 2012, and Active Directory
• Familiarity with SQL Server as well as remote access, backup solutions and firewall technologies.
• Familiarity with enterprise IT Service Management / Ticketing systems
• Familiarity and ability to utilize scripting languages such as Visual Basic for administrative purposes
• Basic knowledge of Unix or Linux would be a plus. Experience with Enterasys/Extreme Networking products preferred.
• Thorough understanding of Active Directory security. Demonstrated proficiency with IT security issues and forensic tools, both for networks and workstations
• Must have a strong grasp of computer security (e.g. firewalls, intrusion detection systems, certificates, etc)

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong judgment, initiative, and problem solving skills
• Facility and initiative to manage multiple projects with specific objectives and deadlines
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of information.
• Creates and Delivers effective written and oral presentations

PHYSICAL CONDITIONS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Hotchkiss has an expansive campus with several buildings; the nature of this position will require that the individual visit many of the facilities.

• Some lifting, up to 40 pounds
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to type at a computer keyboard, or controls
• The position is often sedentary, however the employee may be required to work in tight spaces and on their hands and knees
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate
• Willingness to work long hours, weekends, and on holidays whenever required and when necessitated by school requirements or system failure.

TO APPLY:

Please send an application, cover letter, and résumé to:
Human Resources Department
The Hotchkiss School
11 Interlaken Road
Lakeville, CT 06039-2141
email: hr@hotchkiss.org

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The essential functions and basic skills have been included. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate.

The Hotchkiss School does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, religion, race, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, or national or ancestral origin in the administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic and other School-administered programs, or in the administration of its hiring and employment practices.

The Hotchkiss School is a tobacco-free environment.