Systems Admin Contract Role - Cork, Ireland (6 months)
My client is looking for an experienced senior system administrator to join their team. The Senior Systems Administrator will be responsible for ensuring that systems are functioning properly, within the design and security specifications established by IT, and that all applicable policies, processes, and procedures are properly documented, communicated, and followed. This role requires the successful candidate to be onsite 2 days a week in West Cork.
The Job:
* Infrastructure Installation & Maintenance: Lead the installation, configuration, and ongoing management of servers, storage, network devices, and other infrastructure components. Ensure systems are stable, secure, and optimized for performance.
* Systems Administration: Manage and monitor operating systems (Windows, Linux, etc.), virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper-V), cloud environments, and other infrastructure. Apply patches, updates, and configurations to maintain system security and compliance.
* L1.5 Helpdesk Oversight: Oversee escalated helpdesk support (L1.5), ensuring that complex technical issues are resolved in a timely and efficient manner. Establish procedures for troubleshooting and ensure effective communication with users to minimize downtime and improve service levels.
* Backup & Disaster Recovery: Implement and manage backup systems and disaster recovery plans to ensure data integrity and availability. Test disaster recovery processes regularly to confirm readiness in the event of system failure or data loss.
* Security & Compliance: Ensure that infrastructure components adhere to the organization's security policies. Monitor systems for potential vulnerabilities and mitigate risks by applying necessary patches and updates. Support the implementation of security measures like firewalls, intrusion detection, and encryption.
* Network Management: Configure and maintain the organization's network infrastructure, including switches, routers, firewalls, and wireless access points. Optimize network performance and troubleshoot connectivity issues as needed.
* Automation & Scripting: Use scripting (e.g., PowerShell, Bash) and automation tools to streamline repetitive administrative tasks, improve system efficiency, and reduce human error.
* Documentation & Knowledge Sharing: Maintain detailed and up-to-date documentation of system configurations, processes, and procedures. Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior staff and contribute to continuous improvement of helpdesk and infrastructure processes.
* Vendor Management: Work with external vendors for hardware and software procurement, warranty services, and third-party support. Coordinate with vendors for system upgrades, installations, and repairs when necessary.
* Monitoring & Performance Tuning: Proactively monitor systems for performance issues, bottlenecks, or failures. Tune systems to optimize resource utilization and ensure high availability of critical infrastructure.
Have you:
* Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Equivalent experience will be considered.
* 5+ years of experience in systems administration, infrastructure support, or related IT roles.
* Experience in managing enterprise-level infrastructure (servers, storage, and networking).
* Experience with helpdesk support, especially handling escalated issues beyond L1 support.
Technical Skills:
* Experience with monitoring tools and systems.
* Experience with Hyper-V and VMware 6.x and up environments.
* Performance monitoring and management.
* Problem remediation for ESX servers, vCenter, and related VMware technologies.
* Backup, Replication, and Disaster Recovery.
* Extensive experience with Windows Server OS and related technologies.
* AD design, architecture, sustainability, and support.
* GPO design, architecture, sustainability, and support.
* DHCP, DNS, FRS, architecture, sustainability, and support.
* Moderate experience working in complex networked environments.
* Thorough understanding of WAN/LAN troubleshooting and support.
* Administration of Office 365 tenants.
* Experience with Cisco, Palo Alto, firewalls, switches hardware and wireless configurations.
* Project and problem management, including effectively identifying and communicating goals, risks, stakeholders, timelines, options, and costs.
* Proficiency in Windows and Linux operating systems administration.
* Strong understanding of virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper-V) and cloud infrastructure (e.g., AWS, Azure).
* Expertise in networking, including LAN/WAN, DNS, DHCP, VPN, and firewall management.
* Experience with backup solutions (e.g., Veeam, Acronis, Rubrik) and disaster recovery planning.
* Knowledge of Active Directory, Group Policy, and Microsoft 365 administration.
* Scripting and automation experience (e.g., PowerShell, Bash) for system administration tasks.
* Familiarity with ITSM ticketing systems (e.g., Halo, ServiceNow, Jira) and L1/L1.5 support processes.
* Familiar with SaaS, IaaS, Conditional Access Policy management, Azure MFA, InTune.
* Exposure to PAM solutions such as CyberArk would be advantageous along with knowledge of other platforms such as Crowdstrike, Palo Alto Firewalls.
* CCNA/CCNP would also be desirable.
Berkley Business & Technology is a specialist consultancy, recruiting professionals for organizations throughout Ireland, UK & Europe; for more information go to www.berkley-group.com.
If you would like to discuss this vacancy further or to discuss your career options in confidence, please send your profile to jburke@berkley-group.com
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