System Administrator

Role: Systems Administrator

Location: Evanston, IL 60201

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Job Overview

Our client is seeking an experienced Systems Administrator with strong analytical, troubleshooting, and technical support skills to manage and maintain Windows systems, network infrastructure, servers, applications, and end-user technology.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with Windows Server, Active Directory, DNS, virtualization, Microsoft 365, networking, hardware/software support, and cybersecurity technologies . This role will work closely with the IT team, business users, vendors, and management to ensure systems remain secure, reliable, and available within established service levels.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows servers, operating systems, network hardware, software, and office technology .
• Support LAN, WAN, internet connectivity, network equipment, and data communications .
• Monitor system and network availability and perform preventive maintenance.
• Monitor and test website performance to help ensure corporate websites operate reliably.
• Perform server and application patching, upgrades, software deployments, and bug fixes .
• Manage data backups, restores, and disaster recovery operations .
• Coordinate hardware and server installations, upgrades, repairs, and maintenance.
• Provide technical support for desktops, laptops, printers, copiers, scanners, phone systems, postage equipment, and other office technology.
• Manage user onboarding and offboarding , including account and access-related activities.
• Maintain accurate system, network, maintenance, and repair documentation.
• Provide timely technical updates and resolution information through the JIRA Help Desk .
• Coordinate with vendors and contractors regarding purchases, repairs, renewals, and technical services.
• Support Microsoft applications, Microsoft 365, Office, Outlook, and Windows 11 environments.
• Assist with network troubleshooting, analysis, planning, and infrastructure coordination.
• Follow cybersecurity best practices related to MFA, antivirus, website certificates, and system security .
• Work closely with IT management to ensure systems meet established service levels.
• Participate in a 24x7 on-call rotation for critical IT issues.
• Perform additional IT and systems administration responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is preferred.
• 3–5 years of Windows Server administration experience .
• 3–5 years of desktop, network, hardware, and software support experience .
• Hands-on experience with:
• Microsoft Management Console (MMC)
• Windows Server Manager
• PowerShell
• Windows Services
• Active Directory domains and trusts
• DNS and networking protocols
• Windows 11
• Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Office
• User onboarding and offboarding
• Application installation and deployment
• Experience with server virtualization technologies such as VMware and Hyper-V .
• Knowledge of network infrastructure and troubleshooting.
• Working knowledge of cybersecurity, MFA, antivirus solutions, and website certificates .
• Strong documentation, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work effectively with executives, managers, employees, vendors, and technical teams.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with limited supervision.
• Strong customer service skills with a focus on timely issue resolution and user satisfaction.
• Knowledge of software licensing, hardware warranties, maintenance, renewals, purchase orders, and vendor processes.

Preferred / Nice-to-Have Skills

• Knowledge of Linux .
• Experience with firewall configuration .
• Experience with Cisco and/or Meraki networking equipment.
• Experience supporting enterprise network and server environments.