Senior System Administrator

Senior System Administrator  

Kings’ Education is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Systems Administrator to join our growing IT team. In this key role, you will be responsible for the overall health, operations, and security of all end-user devices, cloud, and server systems across our Kings’ Schools and Head Office locations. 

Amidst all of this, you will be working towards our common group goal of doing “The Best By Every Child”. We are working to better the student experience, provide them with the tools they need to succeed, and be poised to celebrate their plentiful successes. As part of the IT Department, you will be a central part of the Kings’ Education community. 

Key Requirements and Attributes: 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field 

Requirements  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

Skills:  

• Strong knowledge of operating systems (Windows, Linux, UNIX), virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V), and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure). 
• Experience with network protocols, services, and standards (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, SMTP) 
• Proven experience in managing and optimizing IT infrastructure, including cloud (Azure) and virtualization (VMware) environments.  
• Strong understanding of network security principles and best practices, with experience in firewalls, switches, and Microsoft Office 365 Security solutions.  
• Experience with database management, specifically SQL Server.  
• Knowledge in ERP and HR software (Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce) systems.  
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.  
• Experience working in a multi-school or enterprise environment (a plus).  
• Familiarity with IT compliance/Standards/security frameworks like ISO 27001 (a plus).  

Abilities:  

• Ability to quickly and correctly diagnose system malfunction and provide the best fixes 
• Ability to work with tight deadlines 
• Ability to prioritise tasks 
• Be able to work as part of a team 

Desired:  

• Experience working in education sector. 
• Familiar with interactive boards and projectors 
• Familiar with Apple Mac software 
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)  
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)  
• Security+ certification (or equivalent)  
• Microsoft Certified Solutions Architect (MCSA) or Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certification (or equivalent)  

Job Responsibilities: 

• Oversee the installation, configuration, and maintenance of servers, operating systems, and software applications. 
• Monitor system performance and troubleshoot issues to ensure reliable operation. 
• Manage user accounts, permissions, and access controls. 
• Maintain and configure network hardware, such as routers, switches, and firewalls. 
• Monitor network performance and optimize for speed and reliability. 
• Ensure network security by implementing and managing firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection/prevention systems. 
• Implement and manage security measures to protect systems and data from cyber threats. 
• Perform regular security audits and vulnerability assessments. 
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and industry standards. 
• Develop and maintain backup and recovery plans for critical systems and data. 
• Perform regular backups and test recovery processes to ensure data integrity and availability. 
• Maintain detailed documentation of system configurations, procedures, and changes. 
• Generate regular reports on system performance, security incidents, and other key metrics. 
• Lead and participate in IT projects, such as system upgrades, migrations, and new technology implementations Lead the design, architecture, and implementation of robust and scalable IT infrastructure solutions utilizing Azure services like VMs, Migration, Storage, AD Connect, Networking, Security, and APIs.  
• Oversee and optimize server and storage infrastructure, including complex VMware virtualization environments.  
• Manage and mentor the IT administrators across our schools, providing guidance on network security best practices including FortiGate firewalls, Cisco Meraki/HP/Dell/Aruba switches, and Microsoft Office 365 Security with MFA, Conditional Access, and Intune (MDM/MAM).  
• Champion best practices and security protocols, working collaboratively with security teams to leverage solutions like Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Conditional Access, Privileged Access Management (PAM), Identity and Access Management (IAM), Role-based Access Control (RBAC), Azure Data Loss Prevention (DLP), and Mobile Device Management (MDM).  
• Lead and manage infrastructure projects from conception to completion, ensuring adherence to defined project scopes, milestones, and budgetary constraints.  
• Conduct comprehensive capacity planning to anticipate future infrastructure needs and proactively recommend cost-effective upgrade or expansion strategies.  
• Develop and implement resource optimization strategies to maximize infrastructure efficiency and minimize operational costs.  
• Foster a collaborative environment by working closely with other IT teams (development, operations, security) to ensure seamless integration and knowledge sharing.  
• Provide clear and concise communication to stakeholders at all levels, keeping them informed on project status, potential risks, and implemented solutions.  

How to apply: Candidates are to apply directly through the Kings’ WebHR portal.  

The closing date for applications is 2nd August 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and we reserve the right to appoint a suitable candidate before the closing date. Successful applicants will take up their position in August 2024. 

**Please Note: The school takes safeguarding children very seriously and any offer of employment is subject to rigorous checks, including but not limited to; 

• A verified passport copy 
• Three satisfactory references 
• Attestation of qualification certificates 
• DBS/Police checks