Microsoft Systems Administrator

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ITS-SERVERS AND NETWORKS - Microsoft Systems Administrator

Job Classification

Salaried Full-time (75-100%)

Position summary

The Microsoft Systems Administrator is responsible for the configuration, maintenance, monitoring, and security of the university's on-premise and cloud-based servers and services. This role ensures the availability and performance of core IT infrastructure, including Active Directory, virtualization, storage, backups, and enterprise applications. Working closely with network, security, and application teams, the Systems Administrator helps sustain a robust technology foundation that supports Andrews University's academic, administrative, and research missions.

Qualifications summary

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field, or equivalent experience.

• 3+ years of hands-on experience managing enterprise systems in a mixed OS environment.

• Strong knowledge of Windows Server, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policy.

• Experience with virtualization platforms (e.g., XCP-NG/Vates, Hyper-V) and backup systems (e.g., Veeam, Commvault).

Must be a Seventh-day Adventist in good and regular standing.

Duties and responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

Server Administration

• Deploy, manage, and troubleshoot Windows and Linux servers in virtualized (XCP-NG/Hyper-V) and cloud (Azure/AWS) environments.

• Manage system services including Active Directory, Group Policy, file and print services, DNS, DHCP, and authentication systems.

• Ensure timely application of security patches, firmware updates, and performance optimizations.

Cloud & Hybrid Infrastructure

• Support integration and management of cloud-based services (Microsoft 365, Azure AD, cloud storage, and backups).

• Assist in planning and executing migrations to cloud or hybrid environments.

• Monitor and maintain identity federation and single sign-on (SSO) systems (e.g., SAML, ADFS, Azure SSO).

Storage, Backup & Recovery

• Manage enterprise storage systems (SAN/NAS) and ensure data integrity, availability, and performance.

• Implement and monitor backup and disaster recovery solutions, conducting periodic testing and documentation reviews.

• Support business continuity efforts in collaboration with security and compliance teams.

Monitoring & Automation

• Monitor system health, performance, and uptime using tools such as PRTG, or Zabbix.

• Develop scripts and automation routines (PowerShell, Bash, Python) to streamline repetitive tasks and improve reliability.

• Troubleshoot system and application issues, identifying root causes and implementing solutions.

Documentation & Support

• Maintain detailed documentation of system configurations, procedures, and workflows.

• Provide Level 2/3 technical support for escalated issues related to servers, authentication, or enterprise applications.

• Collaborate with Help Desk and application teams to resolve user-impacting system incidents.

Supervisory responsibilities

N/A

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Networking, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of experience supporting enterprise networks in a multi-site environment.
• Proficiency in managing Layer 2/3 networks, VLANs, STP, OSPF, BGP, and QoS.
• Experience with enterprise wireless systems and security protocols (e.g., WPA2/WPA3, RADIUS).
• Strong troubleshooting skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or equivalent (e.g., CompTIA Network+, Aruba Certified Mobility Associate).
• Experience with Cisco/Meraki/Aruba networking equipment in a higher education or campus environment.
• Familiarity with VoIP systems (e.g., Zoom Phones, Teams Phone) and video[TF1] conferencing infrastructure.

Knowledge of ITIL, network automation (e.g., Python, Ansible), or network access control systems (e.g., ClearPass).

Must be a Seventh-day Adventist in good and regular standing.

Technical competencies

N/A

Interpersonal interactions

N/A

Physical demands

Typical Office Environment with options to assist in projects in more challenging environments (optional)

Work environment

• On-site role with occasional evening or weekend work for upgrades or emergency troubleshooting.
• Ability to lift equipment (up to 50 lbs), climb ladders, and work in wiring closets and data centers.
• Some projects may require work at, or inspection of work performed in, underground enclosed spaces
• Some projects may require work at, or inspection of work performed at, elevated locations
• Participation in on-call rotation may be required.