Senior Systems Engineer

Senior Systems Engineer

The Senior Systems Engineer is responsible for the architecture, implementation, and management of the district's virtual server infrastructure, core enterprise services, and cybersecurity posture. This role serves as the technical lead for Active Directory, Group Policy, M365, and shared network resources while maintaining a strong backup and planning partnership with the Director of Network Services for infrastructure and network systems. The Senior Systems Engineer is a critical asset in ensuring secure, stable, and scalable systems that support district operations, instructional technology, and data systems.

Minimum Qualifications

Education/Certification

• Bachelor's degree, Associate's degree, or verifiable work experience
• Valid Texas driver's license with a safe driving record (must meet and maintain liability coverage eligibility)
• Candidates must have a satisfactory outcome of fingerprinting background check. Non-refundable fee (approximately $50.00) paid by employee.

Knowledge/Skills

• Advanced proficiency in Active Directory, Group Policy, M365, DNS, and DHCP administration.
• Strong knowledge of Windows Server environments, VMware virtualization, and core network services.
• Working knowledge of Linux, Google Workspace (Admin Console), and Office 365 Exchange Management. Experience managing and troubleshooting multi-OS environments, network protocols, and server hardware/software issues.
• Demonstrated understanding of cybersecurity principles, tools, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Skilled in resolving server, data storage, and backup system problems efficiently.
• Ability to work independently while thriving in collaborative, team-based environments.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to clearly support users and stakeholders.

Required Experience

• Three (3) years' experience in VMware and Windows Server environment
• Project Management
• VMware View Administration
• VMware vSphere Server Administration
• SAN Management

Major Responsibilities and Duties

• (The following statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned and should not be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions that may be assigned or skills that may be required.)

Professionalism

• The Educators' Code of Ethics is set forth in the Texas Administrative Code to provide rules for standard practices and ethical conduct toward students, professional colleagues, school officials, parents, and members of the community.
• Rule §247.1 Purpose and Scope; Definitions
• Rule §247.2 Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators

Infrastructure and Server Management

• Lead administrator for a complex virtual environment including Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, NTP, file shares, internal applications, and core infrastructure services
• Manage domain ownership, internal and external SSL certificates, and ensure service uptime and availability across all systems.
• Serve as the primary backup to the Director of Network Services for all major network and infrastructure operations, projects, and outages.
• Collaborate with the Director of Network Services and Network Technician to plan and implement improvements to infrastructure and security architecture.

Cybersecurity

• Implement cybersecurity best practices across systems, including patch management, secure configurations, account provisioning/deprovisioning, and email security.
• Support and partner with the Cybersecurity team to ensure continuity and assist in security-related system configurations.
• Monitor system vulnerabilities and maintain compliance with security standards and requirements.
• Assists with implementation of a disaster recovery plan.

Directory Services and Identity Management

• Full ownership of Active Directory, including Group Policy design and implementation, user and device management, and domain trust relationships.
• Manage M365 integrations, licenses, mail flow, and security configurations.
• Oversee access to shared local network drives and district file storage.
• Serve as the primary administrator for Google Admin Console, focusing on email configuration, delivery, and account-level security settings.

Account Provisioning and Identity Services

• Support NIM account provisioning and Single Sign-On (SSO) integrations.
• Work closely with the Cybersecurity team to maintain identity management workflows.

Software Deployment and Application Management

• Coordinate the technical setup and deployment of approved software applications, particularly those requiring installations on district devices.
• Maintain familiarity with ClassLink systems, offering support as needed for Data Services and instructional technology deployments.
• Assist with the integration, authentication, and configuration of web-based educational platforms, as needed.
• Establishes and maintains regular written and in-person communication; develop and maintain technical documentation related to assigned functions and responsibilities.
• Participates in long range planning; contributes to planning and administering the assigned budget; assigns priorities to tasks and projects.
• Creates training support materials, including but not limited to, web-based training materials.
• Works collaboratively to integrate technology solutions and model exemplary instructional strategies which utilize effective and appropriate technology tools in the classroom.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervision of assigned personnel.

Equipment

• Computer, scanner, printers, video equipment, sound systems, projection system, digital equipment, handheld devices, wireless hubs, calculator, telephone, copier, scanner, fax machine, and other equipment applicable to the position.

Working Conditions Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

• Works irregular and extended work hours to include holidays and weekends.
• Works with frequent interruptions and maintains emotional control under stress.
• Prolonged use of computer and telephone, walking, lifting, carrying, stooping, bending, kneeling and moving equipment.
• Limited exposure to hot and cold temperatures.
• Drive district van or personal vehicle as needed.
• Occasional work on-call and after hours.
• Prolonged hours in emergency equipment situations is required.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.