IT Infrastructure Specialist

Job Description The IT Infrastructure Specialist is responsible for ensuring the reliability, security, and optimal performance of the organization’s server and network infrastructure. This position is a six‑month contract engagement intended to provide hands‑on infrastructure support while transferring knowledge to an internal IT team member who will assume these responsibilities full‑time. The successful candidate will be an experienced infrastructure professional capable of working independently with minimal ramp‑up time while mentoring, coaching, and developing internal staff through daily operational activities, documentation, and best practices. This role requires strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills, and a passion for knowledge transfer. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Administer and maintain physical and virtual servers. Configure, monitor, and troubleshoot network devices, including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless infrastructure. Manage and monitor data backups to ensure reliability and recoverability. Monitor system and network performance to identify and resolve issues proactively. Implement security measures to protect servers, network systems, and cloud resources. Maintain accurate documentation of infrastructure configurations, procedures, and changes. Track and manage IT hardware and software assets. Collaborate with IT team members on infrastructure projects and initiatives. Assist in disaster recovery planning, documentation, and testing. Provide hands‑on mentoring and day‑to‑day training for an internal Infrastructure Specialist to ensure a successful transition of responsibilities. Develop standard operating procedures, technical documentation, and knowledge‑transfer materials. Demonstrate infrastructure administration best practices and guide the internal team member through troubleshooting and problem resolution. Provide helpdesk support during peak periods or staff shortages when necessary. Be self‑motivated to complete assignments on time while providing guidance and mentorship to other IT staff. Establish and maintain effective relationships with all levels of users. Ensure an outstanding level of customer service by providing direct IT support throughout the organization. Prioritize service issues based on multiple competing priorities and objectives. Assist with maintaining computer room infrastructure, network cabling, and department documentation. Non‑business hour work may be required to perform maintenance, upgrades, and troubleshooting activities. Prepare cost requests and assist with equipment procurement to meet business needs. Ensure all technical support activities comply with global Harsco compliance standards and procedures. Dependability, regular attendance, and the ability to work extended hours are required. Ability to lift a minimum of 40 lbs. Perform other reasonably related tasks as assigned by management. Qualifications Expert knowledge of Windows Server administration and enterprise infrastructure. Strong experience configuring and troubleshooting enterprise networking equipment including switches, routers, firewalls, VPNs, and wireless infrastructure. Extensive experience with virtualization technologies such as Hyper‑V and VMware. Experience supporting Microsoft Azure and hybrid cloud environments. Strong understanding of Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Group Policy, Microsoft 365, and identity management. Experience with backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity solutions. Strong understanding of IT security principles and best practices. Exceptional troubleshooting and analytical problem‑solving skills. Excellent communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills. Proven ability to mentor and train junior IT staff through hands‑on knowledge transfer. Ability to multitask and prioritize work in a fast‑paced environment. Experience using infrastructure monitoring tools and IT service management platforms. Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate technical documentation. Education and Work Experience Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field preferred. Equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. Minimum of 8 years of experience in enterprise IT infrastructure, server administration, and network management. Extensive hands‑on experience with virtualization platforms such as Hyper‑V and VMware. Proven experience supporting enterprise Windows Server environments, networking infrastructure, storage, and cloud technologies. Experience with Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 administration preferred. Demonstrated success mentoring or training other IT professionals. Experience with backup solutions, disaster recovery planning, and IT security best practices. Manufacturing or global enterprise experience is preferred. Additional Information We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or genetics. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. #J-18808-Ljbffr