Sr. Systems Administrator (NY, East Aurora)

Astronics Corporation is seeking a Sr. Systems Administrator to join our cohesive team of IT professionals in our Corporate office in East Aurora, NY.

The Sr. Systems Administrator is responsible for our SQL Server database environments and actively supports related business systems infrastructures. Collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, and cross-functional business teams to ensure system capabilities align with operational needs and production workflows. Utilize deep expertise in Windows and database administration to strengthen business systems resilience, support cloud modernization initiatives, and enable scalable, secure, and future-ready technology platforms. This role will also support ongoing change management initiatives, and participate in SOX audits and controls management.

In addition to a collaborative culture at a long-standing organization committed to continued growth, Astronics offers:

• Competitive base salary with quarterly bonus opportunities
• Hybrid role, work 2 days onsite in our East Aurora, NY office
• 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off
• 401(k) with company contribution, discounted Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life benefits
• Week-long Christmas shutdown and paid holidays

Your Role Will Encompass:

SQL Server Administration

• Provide expert-level troubleshooting support for Windows & SQL Server database environments, ensuring optimal performance, availability and security
• Manage, configure, and optimize SQL Server instances, including backups, restorations, disaster recovery, and performance tuning
• Perform Windows & SQL Server upgrades, updates, and patching to ensure systems remain secure and modern
• Write and maintain PowerShell & TSQL scripts to drive automation, reduce manual effort, and enhance system reliability
• Oversee administration and deployment of Data Warehouses, Azure Data Services, Power BI, and SSRS to support enterprise reporting, analytics, and cloud modernization initiatives
• Serve as a key stakeholder in ensuring high availability, disaster readiness, and secure architecture across on-prem and cloud environments
• Contribute to cloud modernization and infrastructure transformation efforts by evaluating technologies, recommending improvements, and supporting strategic platform evolution
• Develop and implement Windows & database security protocols to safeguard sensitive data, maintain compliance, and strengthen enterprise risk posture
• Support code changes and promote database updates maintain consistency, traceability, and operational stability
• Design and execute disaster recovery plans to protect business systems, reduce downtime risk, and ensure organizational resilience

Business Systems Infrastructure Support

• Design and maintain database connectivity solutions between applications and backend systems
• Configure and manage application servers to ensure optimal performance and reliability
• Deploy and support Remote Desktop Services (RDS) for secure user access and session management
• Implement and manage middleware solutions for seamless system integration
• Develop and integrate APIs for cross-platform communication and third-party integrations
• Troubleshoot infrastructure bottlenecks and optimize system performance
• Ensure high availability and disaster recovery across infrastructure component

Change Management, SOX Audit Assistance

• Execute change management protocols to minimize business disruption
• Document all system changes and maintain comprehensive audit trails
• Comply with Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) requirements for financial systems and controls
• Conduct internal audits and risk assessments of critical systems
• Implement segregation of duties and access controls to meet regulatory standards
• Prepare audit documentation and coordinate with internal/external audit teams
• Monitor and report on system compliance metrics and control effectiveness
• Establish change approval workflows and governance procedures
• Maintain detailed records of all configuration changes and system modifications

What You'll Bring:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field, or equivalent professional experience
• 4+ years of experience in Windows Server Administration, including SQL database backups, recovery, and high availability setup
• Experience in the architecture, design, planning, and execution of SQL Server infrastructure implementations
• Proficiency in managing Data Warehouses, Azure Data Services, Power BI, and SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS)
• Advanced proficiency in TSQL and PowerShell automation and task scripting
• Hands-on experience in Source Code Management Systems
• Experience in Remote Desktop Services architecture and administration
• Proficiency in API design, development and integration
• Knowledge of Sarbanes-Oxley standards and audit procedures
• Hands-on experience in change management highly desired
• Experience with implementation of information technology on a departmental and/or corporate level highly desired
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with vendors, clients, and business partners desired

Why You'll Love Working Here:

• Flexibility that works: 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off
• Direct influence on enterprise engineering systems and next-gen product development
• Flexible hybrid schedule with collaborative, long-tenured IT teams
• Strong benefits with a focus on career growth and work/life balance

Compensation & Benefits:

• Base salary: $108,000 - $135,000, influenced by several factors including experience, skill set, education, certifications, market conditions, and business needs.
• Competitive rewards: Benefits start the first of the month after hire, quarterly bonus tied to company profitability, 401(k) with 3% company contribution, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, paid holidays (including a full Christmas week shutdown), and comprehensive health/vision/dental coverage.
• This position may involve access to items subject to U.S. export-control laws. Employment is contingent upon the employee's authorization to access such items under applicable law. The company does not guarantee and is under no obligation to seek such authorization if it would be necessary.