Come work at a place where innovation and teamwork come together to support the most exciting missions in the world!Lead IT Systems Administrator
Role Overview And Key Responsibilities
The Lead IT Systems Administrator is responsible for overseeing the strategic planning, design, implementation, and management of the organization's entire IT infrastructure, encompassing both on-premises and cloud-based environments. This leadership role is crucial in ensuring the reliability, security, and optimal performance of servers, storage systems, networks, and core business applications. In addition to serving as the principal technical authority, the Lead IT Systems Administrator provides direction to the IT team, leads major projects, drives continuous improvement, and fosters a culture of innovation and excellence throughout IT operations.Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Systems Management: Oversee the installation, configuration, and maintenance of various operating systems, including Windows Server and Linux, as well as virtualization platforms like VMware and Hyper-V. Direct the management and support of enterprise storage solutions. Set standards for system performance monitoring, troubleshooting, and resource optimization to ensure efficient operations.
- Cloud Administration Leadership: Lead the provisioning, configuration, and management of cloud resources across platforms such as Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services (AWS). Supervise the integration and security of virtual machines, storage, networking, and security components to align with organizational goals.
- Office 365 Administration Oversight: Manage and support Office 365 environments, including user account provisioning, license management, and configuration of productivity tools such as Exchange Online, SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive. Ensure organizational security and compliance, monitor service health, and provide guidance to maximize adoption and effective use of Office 365 tools.
- Network Infrastructure Leadership: Possess a strong understanding of network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls, and VPNs. Establish and enforce protocols for secure and reliable connectivity between on-premises systems and cloud environments.
- Security & Compliance Management: Develop, implement, and oversee comprehensive security policies. Lead regular audits and vulnerability assessments to ensure the organization meets industry standards such as ISO and SOC.
- Backup & Disaster Recovery Strategy: Design, implement, and maintain robust backup and disaster recovery procedures. Lead regular testing of disaster recovery plans and ensure rapid restoration of services in the event of disruptions.
- Performance Monitoring Oversight: Direct the use of monitoring tools, including PRTG, Elasticsearch, and PagerDuty, to proactively manage system health and address issues before they impact business operations.
- Documentation & Reporting: Ensure the creation and maintenance of comprehensive documentation for all systems, processes, configurations, and procedures. Prepare and review detailed reports on system performance, incidents, and resolutions to support transparency and data-driven decision-making.
- Team Leadership & Collaboration: Lead and mentor the IT team, providing technical guidance, support, and professional development opportunities. Collaborate with the help desk and other IT teams to resolve escalated issues and drive complex troubleshooting efforts.
- Continuous Improvement & Innovation: Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies. Champion and implement improvements to enhance system efficiency, security, and reliability. Encourage a growth mindset and foster ongoing learning within the IT team.
- AI Tools & Automation Leadership: Lead the adoption of AI-powered tools and automation platforms to streamline system administration, improve operational efficiency, and advance organizational objectives.
- Vendor & Stakeholder Management: Manage relationships with third-party vendors for hardware, software, and services procurement. Evaluate, recommend, and implement new tools and technologies to support evolving business requirements.
Key Skills And Qualifications
Educational Background: Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field preferred. Equivalent work experience will be considered.Experience: Minimum of 7 to 10 years of experience in systems administration, network management, and IT infrastructure roles, including significant leadership or supervisory experience. Must have hands-on expertise with enterprise-class systems, cloud platforms, and security protocols.Technical Skills:- Advanced expertise in Windows Server, Linux, VMware/Hyper-V, and enterprise storage systems.
- Strong knowledge of cloud platforms such as Azure and AWS, including provisioning, configuration, and management.
- Experience with Active Directory, Okta, SSO/MFA, and identity and access management solutions.
- Advanced network administration skills, including routers, switches, firewalls, and VPNs.
- Familiarity with monitoring tools such as PRTG, Splunk, and PagerDuty.
- Expertise in backup and disaster recovery solutions.
- Proficiency in scripting and automation using PowerShell, Bash, and Python.
- Experience with AI-powered tools and automation platforms.
- Leadership & Soft Skills:
- Proven leadership, mentoring, and team-building abilities.
- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Ability to work independently and guide teams to achieve organizational goals.
- Demonstrates adaptability, curiosity, and a proactive approach to professional growth and innovation.
- Certifications (Preferred but Not Required):
- Microsoft Certified: Windows Server, Azure, or related certifications.
- ITIL Foundation certification.
- Okta Certified Administrator.
- Office 365 certification.
