System Administrator

Salary: $70,000 - $75,000 per year

Job Description:

As a System Administrator at Appalachian Network Services Inc, you will be the final escalation point within our IT support department, crucial for ensuring optimal performance, security, and reliability of all IT systems. This role demands a deep understanding of a wide range of IT systems and a commitment to solving complex network and server issues across multiple client environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the highest escalation point for the Helpdesk, troubleshooting complex technical issues related to networks, servers, and IT systems.
• Administer, maintain, and optimize network equipment, including routers, switches, and firewalls, ensuring high performance, reliability, and security.
• Manage and maintain camera and access control systems, ensuring operational functionality and security.
• Support voice and audio/video systems, managing any issues to ensure optimal performance.
• Implement and maintain robust data backup and recovery solutions, safeguarding critical client information.
• Provide expert support for Microsoft Server environments, including installation, configuration, and maintenance.
• Collaborate closely with the Helpdesk team to improve support processes and develop knowledge base articles to aid in problem resolution.
• Monitor system performance and capacity, proactively addressing potential issues to prevent system failures.
• Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments, implementing necessary security measures and updates.

Additional Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide high-level technical guidance and support to both clients and internal teams.
• Lead and contribute to IT infrastructure projects, ensuring successful execution and alignment with strategic IT initiatives.
• Engage in continuous learning and certification to keep up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices in IT security and system management.
• Consistently maintain service level agreements by swiftly responding to and resolving service tickets within prescribed timeframes. Accurately record all billable hours and services performed, both internally and for customers, using ConnectWise. Ensure daily productivity aligns with departmental goals by effectively managing and documenting work tasks to meet operational standards and client expectations.

Licensing and Compliance Requirements: This role requires active participation in obtaining a NC Alarm System License Registrant. This licensure is essential for any team member involved in the installation, maintenance, or remote access to Camera Systems, Alarm Systems, or Access Control Systems. Management of the licensure process will be overseen by our NC Alarm System License Licensee to ensure all legal and regulatory requirements are met.

Company Culture:

• At Appalachian Network Services Inc, we embody core values of Excellence, Security, Technological Agility, and Teamwork, which guide our commitment to innovation and safety in all our operations.
• We encourage professional development and growth within our teams, offering opportunities to advance and lead in a technology-driven environment.
• We uphold a zero-tolerance policy for workplace negativity and toxicity, actively fostering a culture that rewards problem-solving, innovation, and teamwork. Our commitment to a positive work atmosphere ensures that every team member feels valued and supported.
• Every employee is encouraged to take initiative and contribute ideas to ongoing improvements. By promoting an environment where all voices are heard and respected, we ensure that team members feel part of our collective success and are supported in their efforts to excel.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

• Expertise in managing and configuring enterprise-wide LANs, WANs, WLANs, VPNs, etc.
• Experience with major networking components, network operating systems, and basic network management.
• Strong understanding of network infrastructure and network hardware.
• Ability to think through problems and visualize solutions.
• Ability to implement, administer, and troubleshoot network infrastructure devices.
• Knowledge of application transport and network infrastructure protocols.
• Ability to create accurate network diagrams and documentation for design and planning network communication systems.
• Provides specific detailed information for hardware and software selection.
• Ability to work with all levels of staff within and outside of IT and outside the organization.
• A self-starter able to work independently but comfortable working in a team environment.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Dependable and flexible when necessary.
• Network security experience.
• LAN and WAN experience.

Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in systems administration with a strong background in network and server management.

Professional Certifications:

• Required: Associate-level certifications from Microsoft, Aruba, Fortinet, and Veeam(e.g., Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate, and Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals, Aruba ACSA, Fortinet FCF, and Veeam VMCE).
• Preferred: Advanced/Professional level certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate, Microsoft 365 Administrator Expert, and VMWare VCTA are advantageous for higher-level responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Full medical coverage provided for each employee, with optional upgrades and family additions available through employee contributions.
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Available for employee enrollment at their own expense.
• Life Insurance and Health Savings Account (HSA): Optional life insurance and HSA available.
• Flexible Time Off: We provide flexible time off to support work-life balance.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: A 401(k) plan with a company match to aid in your longterm financial planning.
• Performance-Based Incentives: We offer incentives that recognize and reward outstanding performance.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities for professional growth in a rapidly expanding company.

Schedule:

• Full-time, 8-hour shift, Monday to Friday
• Potential on-call responsibilities as needed

Company's Website:

As part of this process, the selected candidate will be subject to a criminal background check, FBI finger Printing, and drug testing to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.