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 development budget for training and certifications.
• Flexible work arrangements when not traveling.
• Mentorship from senior administrators and clear career progression paths.
• Exposure to cutting-edge technology in higher education.

Training & Career Growth

We are committed to developing IT talent from within. New hires benefit from structured onboarding, mentorship, and certification support. Regular performance reviews include individualized development planning, with clear pathways for advancement into senior technical and leadership roles.

Preferred Additional Skills

• Familiarity with monitoring tools.
• Basic database administration.
• Understanding of automation technologies.
• Exposure to containerization.
• Experience with ticketing systems.
• Basic programming/scripting skills.

Application Process

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and relevant certifications. Include details on your experience with cloud and on-premises systems, comfort with travel, and interest in higher education IT. GitHub repositories, lab projects, or portfolio demonstrations are welcomed.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity, innovation, and excellence in higher education technology.