Systems Administrator Tier 2 Team Lead

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionDescription: Systems Administrator – Tier 2 Team LeadBirmingham, AL (Onsite at Client Location) Lead with excellence. Innovate with purpose. Grow with DataPerk. For more than two decades, DataPerk has been a trusted technology partner for organizations across the Southeast, delivering secure, scalable, and thoughtfully engineered IT solutions. Our mission is rooted in providing exceptional service through proactive support, simplified technology, and outstanding collaboration with our clients and community. We are seeking an experienced Systems Administrator – Tier 2 Team Lead to support one of our largest clients in Birmingham, AL. This role combines hands-on Tier 2 technical responsibilities with day-to-day leadership of a small, high-performing support team. This individual will serve as the onsite technical point of escalation, ensure service quality, and help cultivate a culture of excellence, accountability, and continual growth. This role is ideal for a seasoned technician who loves solving complex problems and also thrives in a leadership position—someone who is ready to guide a team, shape client relationships, and represent DataPerk at a high level. Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Responsibilities (Tier 2)Provide advanced troubleshooting and resolution for escalated hardware, software, networking, and systems issues Manage and maintain servers, workstations, backups, and network infrastructure in accordance with DataPerk standards Collaborate closely with the client's management team as well as our internal staff, project teams, and leadership to ensure seamless service delivery Support the deployment and configuration of new systems, applications, and security tools Ensure documentation is accurate, thorough, and up to date Team Lead ResponsibilitiesServe as the onsite lead for a dedicated support team at one of DataPerk’s largest client locations Provide coaching, mentoring, and daily guidance to Tier 1 and Tier 2 technicians Oversee task assignment, prioritization, and workflow management to ensure SLA compliance Act as the primary technical escalation point for complex issues and client-impacting events Conduct regular check-ins, performance feedback, and help cultivate a culture of continuous improvement Partner with DataPerk leadership to identify training needs, process improvements, and efficiency opportunities Foster a positive, professional, and solutions-oriented relationship with the client’s key stakeholders Lead by example, demonstrating accountability, strong communication, and exceptional customer service What Makes This Role UniqueThe opportunity to lead while still engaging in hands-on systems administration High visibility at one of DataPerk’s most important client sites A leadership role within a company that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth A chance to build a high-performing team and directly influence client satisfaction and service excellenceOther Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Basic NetworkingUnderstand physical network infrastructure and perform cable troubleshooting.Identify and explain differences between various types of switches (managed, non-managed, layer 2/3, etc.).Demonstrate knowledge of DHCP and DNS, including their roles in network troubleshooting.Configure DHCP and DNS on Windows Server, Fortigate, Cisco, and Meraki.Navigate Fortinet OS, perform firmware upgrades, and troubleshoot SSL-VPN and client configurations.Navigate Meraki controller, troubleshoot SSL-VPN, and manage client configurations.Navigate Unifi controller for wireless setup and troubleshooting.Test and troubleshoot network faults.Create and review work instructions.CablingIdentify various cabling types (Fiber, Cat5-Cat7).Recognize basic tools and hardware for cabling (plates, biscuits, fish poles, etc.).Terminate Copper Cabling (Jack and RJ45).Server AdministrationNavigate Windows Server OS and demonstrate knowledge of server roles.Troubleshoot Windows Server domains.Understand server backups (Altaro), both local and remote.Manage file sharing, drive mapping, and server/client relationships.Configure and deploy UPS (PowerChute).Configure and deploy NAS (PowerChute).SecurityInstall and troubleshoot ESET, Cisco Umbrella, and Sentinel One.Review spam emails and perform PC virus cleanup.Service ManagementNavigate Ninja One platform, install agents, and review managed devices.Provide Microsoft service support and engage their support structure.Coordinate with first- and third-party software vendors as needed.Complete managed service sheets and reviews.Perform on-call duties as required.Tier 2 Technician Server ResponsibilitiesInstall, configure, and troubleshoot Windows virtual server environments and Hyper-V Hosts.Manage Azure servers and services.Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows domain environments.Utilize PowerShell and scripting for automation.Proficiently handle storage technologies (RAID configurations, SAN, NAS).Implement backup solutions and disaster recovery procedures.Add/Remove roles from Windows Server and manage enterprise software installations.Assist with complex server environments and projects.Intermediate Server Engineering capabilities.We offer an excellent benefits package including BCBS Health, Dental and Vision plans, Short and Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance, Simple IRA plan, Paid Holidays and Paid PTO. Our company culture is built on appreciation, collaboration and continued learning!Requirements: Education:Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience.Certifications:Must possess two or more of the following: Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals (MS-900)Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals (SC-900)Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)CompTIA A+ / Network+ / Security+Cisco Certified Support Technician (Cybersecurity and/or Networking)Fortinet NSE 1-3Plus two or more from the following: Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator AssociateMicrosoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer AssociateMicrosoft Certified: Windows Server Administration FundamentalsCompTIA Server+CompTIA Security+Certified Ethical HackerVMware Certified Professional (VCP)Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Administration Fundaee meWntals