Senior Systems Administrator

The University of Pikeville is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Systems Administrator to join our dynamic IT department. As a Senior Systems Administrator, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of our university's information systems and infrastructure. You will play a critical role in ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of our technology systems, while also providing technical support to end users. This position will also focus on cloud technology, particularly Microsoft Azure, Office 365, JAMF, etc.

Responsibilities:

1. System Administration:
   • Manage and maintain the university's server infrastructure, including physical and virtual servers, operating systems, and network services.
   • Oversee the installation, configuration, and optimization of server hardware and software components.
   • Monitor system performance, identify issues, and proactively resolve or escalate problems to ensure maximum uptime and performance.
2. Network Infrastructure Management:
   • Design, implement, and maintain the university's network infrastructure, including switches, routers, firewalls, and wireless access points.
   • Monitor network performance, identify bottlenecks, and optimize network configurations for maximum efficiency.
   • Ensure network security by implementing and maintaining appropriate access controls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and network monitoring tools.
3. Cloud Technology Implementation:
   • Collaborate with the IT team to design and implement cloud-based solutions using Microsoft Azure and Office 365.
   • Manage Azure infrastructure, including virtual machines, storage accounts, networking, and security.
   • Configure and administer Office 365 services, such as Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, and Microsoft Teams.
4. User Support and Training:
   • Provide technical support to end users, including troubleshooting hardware and software issues, resolving connectivity problems, and assisting with system configurations.
   • Develop and deliver user training programs and documentation to enhance system knowledge and promote efficient and secure usage of technology resources.
5. System Upgrades and Patch Management:
   • Plan and coordinate system upgrades, including operating systems, applications, and infrastructure components.
   • Perform regular patch management activities to ensure system security and compliance with industry standards and best practices.
6. Backup and Disaster Recovery:
   • Develop and implement backup and disaster recovery strategies for critical systems and data.
   • Test and validate backup and recovery procedures to ensure the integrity and availability of data in the event of system failures or disasters.
7. Project Management:
   • Lead and participate in IT projects related to system upgrades, migrations, and new technology implementations.
   • Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to define project requirements, timelines, and deliverables.
8. Other duties as assigned.

Relationships:

Position requires daily contact with co-workers, faculty, staff, and students in order to plan, organize, and implement daily workflow and projects, as well as to train, inform, and assist with any inquiries. These relationships are maintained through e-mail, telephone, and person-to-person contact.

Education/Skill Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• Proven experience as a Systems Administrator, preferably in an enterprise-level environment.
• Strong knowledge of Windows and Linux server operating systems, including installation, configuration, and administration.
• Experience with virtualization technologies, such as VMware or Hyper-V.
• Proficiency in network administration, including LAN/WAN, TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and VPN.
• Familiarity with Active Directory, Group Policy, and other directory services.
• Familiarity with JAMF.
• Experience with cloud technologies, particularly Microsoft Azure and Office 365.
• Solid understanding of backup and disaster recovery principles and practices.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with end users and team members.
• Project management experience is a plus.

The University of Pikeville offers a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. UPIKE offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, telemedicine, long-term disability, tuition waivers, a 403(b)-retirement plan, and HSA, FSA, & dependent care accounts. UPIKE also offers a generous holiday schedule and paid leave program.

Important Notes: Resume and other application materials will be reviewed to determine if you meet the required qualifications for the position. If it is determined that you meet the required qualifications, your application materials will be used to identify a top group of the most highly qualified candidates. Please, specifically address the qualifications, competencies and desired qualifications in your resume and application materials.

The University of Pikeville is committed to providing a safe and productive learning, living and working community. To achieve this goal, we conduct background investigations for all final applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial and/or motor vehicle history.

The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students. 

For more information about the University of Pikeville, please visit http://www.upike.edu. Interested applicants should complete the online application by visiting http://jobs.upike.edu. In addition to the application, interested applicants are requested to attach to their application a letter of interest, current resume, and the contact information for three to five professional references.