Entry-Level Systems Administrator – Higher Education

We are seeking an Entry-Level Systems Administrator to join our Information Technology team at our corporate office in South Austin 78744. This role provides critical support across our multi-campus higher education network and offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in both cloud and on-premises environments.

The position is hybrid in nature, combining systems administration responsibilities with campus-based technical support. Regular travel will be required to our Texas campus locations which includes Austin, Waco, San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, Harlingen, and Pharr.

Key Responsibilities:

Systems Administration

• Monitor and maintain Windows Server environments (on-premises and cloud-based).
• Assist with Active Directory user management, group policies, and domain administration.
• Support cloud infrastructure management (Microsoft Azure, AWS, or similar).
• Perform system maintenance, updates, and patch management.
• Monitor system performance, disk usage, and backup operations.
• Assist with server deployment, configuration, and retirement.
• Maintain accurate documentation for configurations and procedures.

Network & Infrastructure Support

• Support network devices including switches, routers, and wireless systems.
• Assist with firewall configuration and security policy enforcement.
• Troubleshoot connectivity issues and monitor network performance.
• Support VPN and remote access solutions.
• Participate in disaster recovery planning and testing.

Campus Support & Travel

• Provide on-site technical support at multiple Texas campus locations.
• Lead escalated helpdesk requests requiring advanced troubleshooting.
• Support campus server rooms and local infrastructure.
• Partner with campus IT staff on project rollouts.
• Conduct infrastructure assessments and site evaluations.

Security & Compliance

• Assist with cybersecurity initiatives and vulnerability assessments.
• Support higher education compliance (e.g., FERPA).
• Monitor security logs and support incident response.
• Implement endpoint security and coordinate with the cybersecurity team.

Required Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma/GED required.
• Associate’s degree in IT, Computer Science, or related field preferred.
• 2 - 3 years of IT experience preferred.
• Industry certifications a plus (CompTIA Server+, Network+, Security+, Microsoft, AWS).

Technical Skills

• Working knowledge of Windows Server 2022.
• Basic familiarity with cloud platforms (Azure).
• Understanding of Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policy.
• Exposure to virtualization (Hyper-V).
• Knowledge of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, VLANs, routing, switching).
• Basic PowerShell scripting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 administration.
• Understanding of backup/disaster recovery concepts.

Essential Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to travel up to 25% within Texas.
• Must pass a background check.
• U.S. work authorization required.
• Minimum age: 18.

Key Competencies:

Technical Aptitude

• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills.
• Quick learner with ability to adopt new technologies.
• Familiarity with change management processes.
• Comfort working with both legacy and modern systems.

Communication & Leadership

• Clear and professional written/verbal communication.
• Ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical users.
• Strong collaboration skills with cross-functional teams.
• Professional presentation skills for stakeholders.

Work Style & Attributes

• Self-directed with strong time management.
• Detail-oriented with commitment to documentation.
• Adaptable to evolving technologies.
• Customer service mindset for internal/external users.
• Commitment to ethical handling of sensitive data.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary (commensurate with experience).
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision).
• Tuition assistance and educational benefits.
• Professional developmen