Role Summary
The Senior Systems Administrator owns the reliability, security, and lifecycle of on-premises and cloud systems that support academic and administrative operations. This role focuses on identity, servers, endpoints, backups, security controls, and SaaS integrations. Network architecture and infrastructure responsibilities are handled by external specialists.
Reporting & Operating Model
- Reports to the Director of IT
- Works daily with external network and security consultants
- Primary point of contact for MSP and systems vendors
- Expected to perform maintenance and upgrades outside business hours when required
Primary Responsibilities
Identity & Access
- Administer Microsoft Entra ID (Azure AD), hybrid identity, and Conditional Access
- Manage SSO integrations (SAML / OIDC)
- Support MFA platforms (e.g., Duo)
- Maintain RBAC, group strategy, and lifecycle automation
Server & Platform Administration
- Administer Windows Server and Linux systems (on-prem and cloud)
- Manage virtualization platforms (VMware or equivalent)
- Maintain directory, DNS, and DHCP services
- Perform patching, upgrades, and lifecycle planning
Endpoint & Device Management
- Support Jamf and Intune device platforms
- Integrate device identity with authentication systems
- Maintain macOS and Windows configuration baselines and compliance
Backup, DR, and Reliability
- Administer backup platforms (Veeam, Druva, or equivalent)
- Test restores and document recovery procedures
- Maintain disaster recovery runbooks and system dependencies
Security Operations (Non-Network)
- Apply OS-level hardening and patching
- Respond to endpoint and server security incidents
- Support audits, logging, and compliance controls
- Coordinate with security vendors and consultants
SaaS & Application Support
- Own backend administration for Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Blackbaud, and core platforms
- Maintain service integrations and provisioning flows
- Troubleshoot authentication, sync, and access issues
Documentation & Process
- Maintain system documentation and diagrams
- Create operational runbooks and escalation procedures
- Support change management and configuration tracking