IT System Administration - Journey

Salary : $6,939.00 - $9,332.00 Monthly

Location : Spokane County - Cheney, WA

Job Type : Full Time - Permanent

Job Number : 24 IT SYS ADMIN 0753

Department : Office of the Secretary of State

Division : Information Technology

Opening Date : 05 / 09 / 2024

Description

The Office of Secretary of State (OSOS) offers some of the most unique and diverse job opportunities in state government.

Its critical responsibilities include : ensuring a fair and accurate elections process; connecting Washingtonians through the power of libraries;

protecting our important government records; and registering corporations and charities. The Secretary of State also administers vital community programs that inspire giving, document our history, and assist crime survivors in avoiding further abuse.

This independent office under the state Constitution operates from facilities in the Olympia area and statewide.

The OSOS is looking for top-performing employees who embody its core values of integrity, service excellence, visionary leadership, collaboration and teamwork.

It is committed to both employee growth and work-life balance. The benefits of working in state government also include potential eligibility for the federal program. Visit our website at :

The Division of Information Technology (IT) is a support arm of the entire organization touching every program, every division, all staff members, and most stakeholders.

IT is a division comprised of several teams that drive the OSOS IT operations. These teams include Applications Development, ServiceDesk Support, IT Project Management, System Administration and Architecture.

This position reports to the System Admin Sr. Spec Supervisor.

IT Systems Administrator (Journey)

Permanent, Full Time

The IT System Administrator is a fully competent professional who, aligned with the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) framework , uses IT Service Management (ITSM) to support and manage systemsThis position utilizes experienced knowledge to accomplish tasks and an understanding of IT concepts.

This position strives to improve the systems this position supports through learning and understanding OSOS's business needs, interacting with end users and attending statewide technical groups.

This position provides system administration and network and telecommunicationsskills primarily forthe Washington state election system, but will also be assigned to other agency systems, as neededThis position looks beyond current best practices, standards, policies, procedures and uses experience and advanced professional knowledge to take the agency into the future and mature our organization's infrastructure.

The incumbent exercises independent responsibility and judgement in setting standards, as well as designing, developing, and implementing IT solutions that integrate and secure networks throughout the agency.

As the networking subject matter expert (SME), this position has comprehensive networking knowledge and has professional level expertise in multiple IT disciplines including IT Networking, Security, Network, Telecom, and System Administration in order to effectively anticipate impact, combat security threats, create sustainable strategies,troubleshoot complex multi-system problems and implement and audit advanced technical configurations.

Duties

Duty : Administers and maintains IT systems, services and applications as a technically competent IT professional.

Serves as an agency's system administrator and technical subject matter expert of assigned agency wide services, applications, and systemssuch as VoteWA , Microsoft Backend Infrastructure (Active Directory, Group Policy, IIS, SQL, file and print services , Azure Active Directory, Email, M365 application configuration and security), System monitoring tools (Azure app insights , Data Dog, etc.

andPhysical and Virtual Servers Deploys, troubleshoots, maintains, and manages network topology, circuits, IPv4, IPv6, IP addressing, segmentation, security, NTP, DHCP, DNS, certificates and all other WAN and LAN technology.

Tasks :

• Manages all aspects of existing systems, working with journey and entry positions to coordinate security, privacy, networking, data management, system design and integration.
• Oversees the installation, configuration, and maintenance of operating systems and system software.
• Plans and executes system upgrades and migrations.
• Manages and maintains server infrastructure, including both physical and virtual servers.
• Implements security measures to protect systems from unauthorized access, data breaches, and other cyber threats.
• Monitors system performance and troubleshooting issues to ensure optimal uptime and performance.
• Manages and optimizes cloud infrastructure and services (e.g., AWS, Azure).
• Develops and implements backup and disaster recovery plans to minimize downtime and data loss.
• Manages user accounts, permissions, and access controls to ensure security and compliance with company policies.
• Collaborates with other IT teams to integrate systems and ensure compatibility across the network.
• Conducts regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and address potential risks.
• Automates repetitive tasks and processes to improve efficiency and productivity.
• Documents system configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting steps for knowledge sharing and training purposes.
• Keeps team members and other stakeholders informed on system changes, schedules and technology updates.
• Implements and maintains monitoring tools to proactively identify and resolve issues before they impact users.
• Manages software licenses and ensuring compliance with vendor agreements and usage policies.
• Collaborates with vendors and third-party service providers to resolve issues and implement solutions.

Duty : Network and Telecommunications

• Works with agency IT architects to design,of complex network infrastructure including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points.
• Monitors network performance and troubleshoot connectivity issues, ensuring maximum uptime and reliability.
• Independently implements and manages network security protocols, including firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection / prevention systems.
• Evaluates and recommends network hardware and software upgrades to improve performance and efficiency.
• Collaborates with vendors to procure network and telecommunications equipment and services.
• Develops and maintain network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, and policies.
• Leads network infrastructure projects, including planning, implementation, and post-implementation support.
• Collaborates with other IT teams to integrate network infrastructure with other systems and applications.
• Responds to and resolve network and telecommunications-related incidents and service requests in a timely manner.
• Coordinates with third-party service providers for network and telecommunications maintenance and support.

Keeps Current with Technology / Training - Stays current with the latest system administration and network supportbest practices, trends, technology, and threats.

Works with IT staff, system users, and agency management when needed.

Tasks include :

• Proactively keeps current with industry standards and practices for system administration and networking by attending classes, attending seminars and webinars, and reading industry publications.
• Attends trainings, conferences, and other events to maintain or develop skills.
• Maintains awareness of potential external threats or risks to the security posture of the application portfolio.

Miscellaneous :

Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• 4* or more years of professional information technology experience such as troubleshooting, installing and / or maintaining server software or hardware, virtual servers, firewalls or network infrastructure equipment.
• College level degree or completion of accredited training program may substitute for up to 2 years of experience. (Associates would be substituted for 1 year, Bachelors would be substituted for 2 years, and Masters would be substituted for 3 years).

Desired Qualifications

• One year or more of PowerShell Experience
• CompTIA Certificates such as A+, Network+, Security+, and / or Cloud Essentials.
• MicrosoftCertifications such asAzure, IIS, SQL, Servers andCloud Applications
• ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) Certification

Supplemental Information

Working Conditions :

In this position, the incumbent works primarily in an office environment where sitting for long periods of time and extensive use of the keyboard is required.

The standard work hours are Monday-Friday from 8 : 00 AM to 5 : 00 PM though work can be required outside of standard hours to include evenings, weekends, and holidays, particularly when emergency situations arise.

Coordination of personal work schedule with that of the team may be required to ensure consistent availability. Regular travel to local offices is required.

The incumbent must have the ability to move and maneuver objects weighing approximately 50 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodation.

The incumbent must also be able to listen attentively, identify issues, provide options, address requests and resolve complaints or conflicts.

The incumbent in this position must be able to represent the Office of the Secretary of State in a competent, confident, and professional manner, including professional dress.

How to Apply :

• To be considered for this position you must attach the following :
• Letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the duties and qualifications of the position
• Current resume
• Three professional references
• You must complete the supplemental questions at the end of this application. Incomplete responses such as "see resume" will not be considered.

In addition, if the employer you identify in the additional information section is not included on your resume or work experience profile and / or you do not identify an employer, you will not receive credit.

• All veterans must include a copy of your DD214 to receive preference in the hiring process. You must black out your social security number before attaching it to your application.
• Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
• Must have current Washington state driver's license or have requested and obtained an appropriate accommodation

The Office of the Secretary of State is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We do not discriminate on the basis of religion, age, sex, marital status, race, color, creed, national origin, political affiliation, military status, sexual orientation, or any real or perceived sensory, mental or physical ability.

All interested candidates are encouraged to apply. Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this announcement in alternative format, should call (360) 480-4871.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket.

Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security.

That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits :

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months.

Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note : If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses.

Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website.

The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs.

For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note : Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday;

or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours.

Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis.

Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and / or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position.

Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note : Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so.

However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

Where did you hear about the job posting?

Do you have a family member or relative currently employed at the Office of the Secretary of State? *Relative includes : parent, child, spouse, domestic partner, brother, sister, grandparent, aunt, uncle, cousin, niece, any 'step' relations within the preceding categories, any in-law relations within the preceding categories and any others living in the employee's household*

If you answered Yes in the previous question, what is the name of your family member / relative?

PLEASE READ THE BELOW AND TYPE YOUR INITIALS IN RESPONSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THESE STATEMENTS.

The Office of the Secretary of State has a Nepotism Policy that does not allow employment of relatives or family members in the same chain of command.

I acknowledge this policy and I do not have familial connections or household members employed at the Office of the Secretary of State.

I understand that if I am hired and it is discovered that I have a relative or household member working in the same division, my employment will be terminated immediately.

How many years of professional information technology experience such as troubleshooting, installing and / or maintaining server software or hardware, virtual servers, firewalls or network infrastructure equipment do you have?

• I have 4+ years of experience
• I have 3+ years of experience
• I have 2+ years of experience
• I do not have this experience

Please describe your experience in reference to the question above including where and when you gained the experience and the tasks and skills you obtained to gain this experience.

If you do not have this experience, please write "N / A" in the box below.

How many years of experience do you have with PowerShell?

• I have 3+ years of experience
• I have 2-3 years of experience
• I have 1-2 years of experience
• I do not have this experience

Please describe your experience in reference to the question above including where and when you gained the experience and the tasks and skills you obtained to gain this experience.

If you do not have this experience, please write "N / A" in the box below.

Can you efficiently use a personal computer and applicable software to successfully perform the essential job functions of the position?

Did you attach a resume, cover letter and three professional references?

Required Question