POSITION TITLE (Oracle title)

SYSTEMSADMINISTRATORII

WORKING TITLE

SystemsAdministratorII-UNIX

SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT

TechnologyServicesDivision

LOCATION

CrossroadsII,Cary,NC

PAY GRADE

TechnologyBandGrade27

FLSA STATUS

Exempt

ELIGIBILITY FOR EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT

No

WORK WEEK SCHEDULE

Monday-Friday (occasional evenings and weekends) Position is available for a Hybrid Telework workweek

POSITION PURPOSE:

Plays a critical role in managing, maintaining, and optimizing the Linux/AIX server environment across Wake County Public Schools (WCPSS). Responsible for ensuring the stability, reliability, and security of Linux-based systems to support the educational and administrative functions of the school district. Provides expert-level support and guidance to junior IT staff, implements best practices, and contributes to strategic IT planning.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs)

• ComprehensiveknowledgeofLinuxdistributionssuchasRedHat,Ubuntu,andCentOS.Understandingofsystem administration tasks including installation, configuration, and maintenance of Linux servers;
• Proficiencyinshellscripting(e.g.,Bash)andautomationtools(e.g.,Ansible,Puppet,Chef);
• Knowledgeofnetworkingconceptsandprotocols(e.g.,TCP/IP,DNS,DHCP,routing).Understandingofnetworkservices and configurations on Linux systems;
• Familiaritywithwebserveradministration(e.g.,Apache,Nginx)anddatabasemanagement(e.g.,MySQL,PostgreSQL);
• Knowledge of Linux security practices,including firewall configurations (e.g.,iptables, firewall), user permissions,and access controls. Awareness of common security threats and mitigation strategies for Linux environments;
• UnderstandingofbackupanddisasterrecoverysolutionsandmethodologiesforLinuxsystems;
• Familiaritywithcloudservicesandinfrastructure,suchasAWSorAzure,isbeneficial;
• Knowledgeofcontainerizationtechnologies(e.g.,Docker,Kubernetes)andtheirdeploymentandmanagementinLinux environments;
• KnowledgeofITOperationsandDataCenterControls;
• KnowledgeofStorageAreaNetworks(SAN);
• Advanced skills in diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues related to Linux systems, hardware, and network connectivity;
• Skills inmonitoringsystem performance, identifyingbottlenecks, andimplementing optimizationsto ensuresystem efficiency and reliability;
• SkillsinmanagingITprojects,includingplanning,execution,andcoordinationwithotherITteammembersand stakeholders;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences;
• Strong problem-solvingskills to addressand resolve technical challenges efficientlyand effectively;
• Ability to create and maintain detailed documentation for system configurations, processes, and troubleshooting procedures;
• Abilitytoprovidehigh-qualitytechnicalsupportandcustomerservicetoend-usersandITstaff;
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, vendors, and stakeholders to achieve IT objectives and resolve issues;
• Ability to analyze complex systems and data to identify issues, make informed decisions, and implement effective solutions;

• Abilitytoadapttochangingtechnologiesandpriorities,stayingcurrentwithindustrytrendsandbestpractices;
• Ability to pay keen attention to detail to ensure accuracy in system configurations, documentation, and adherence to policies and standards;
• Abilitytomakesounddecisionsunderpressure,balancingtechnicalrequirementswithorganizationalneeds;
• Ability to mentor and guide junior IT staff, providing leadership, support, and training in technical and project-related matters;
• Abilityto managemultipletasksandprojects simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines;
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form using a variety of communication techniques and tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information, collaborative efforts, and feedback;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school system staff, vendors, contractors, external agencies, and the community.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’sdegreeincomputerscience,InformationTechnology,orarelatedfield;AND
• Five years of experience as a Systems Administrator or similar role, with a focus on Linux-based systems.

CERTIFICATION AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

None

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in an educational environment or public sector, with a proven ability to manage large-scale IT infrastructures;
• Experience with cloud services(e.g.,MicrosoftAzure),familiaritywith backup and disaster recoverysolutions, and knowledge of ITIL practices;
• Certification in RedHat Linux and/or IBM AIX (Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC-2 or LPIC-3), Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), or similar advanced Linux certifications).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Installs,Configures,andMaintainsLinuxServers:Overseesthesetup,configuration,andongoingmaintenanceofLinux serverstoensureoptimalperformanceandreliability.Managesuseraccounts,permissions,andgroupmembershipson Linux systems, ensuring proper access controls and security.
2. Monitors and Optimizes System Performance: Uses monitoring tools to track server performance metrics, such as CPU, memory, and disk usage, and address any issues that arise. Performs tuning and optimization tasks to enhance system performance and ensure efficient operation of Linux servers.
3. Security and Compliance: Applies security updates, patches, and configurations to protect Linux systems from vulnerabilities and threats. Regularly performs security audits and vulnerability assessments to ensure compliance with organizational security policies and standards.
4. Manages Backup Solutions: Implements and manages backup solutions to ensure data integrity and availability. Schedules regular backups and test recovery procedures to verify data restoration capabilities. Develops and maintains disaster recovery plans and procedures to ensure quick recovery in the event of a system failure or other disruptions.
5. ResolvesTechnicalIssues:ProvidesadvancedtechnicalsupportforcomplexissuesrelatedtoLinuxsystems,including hardware, software, and network problems. Maintains detailed records of issues and resolutions to aid in future troubleshooting and to improve overall system reliability.
6. Automation and Scripting: Creates and maintains shell scripts and automation tools to streamline administrative tasks and improve system efficiency. Utilizes automation tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet) to automate repetitive tasks and manage configurations across multiple systems.
7. Project Management: Manages and participates in IT projects involving Linux systems, including upgrades, migrations, and new implementations. Works with other IT team members, departments, and external vendors to ensure successful project outcomes.
8. Documentation and Reporting: Develops and maintains comprehensive documentation for system configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting guides. Generates reports on system performance, security status, and project progress for review by IT leadership.
9. Training and Mentoring: Develops and delivers training materials to enhance the technical skills of junior IT staff and end- users on Linux systems and best practices. Offers guidance and support to less experienced team members, fostering their professional growth and development.
10. Collaboration and Communication: Collaborates with other IT teams, departments, and external partners to address system issues, implement solutions, and achieve IT goals. Provides clear and concise communication regarding system changes, project updates, and technical information to various stakeholders.
11. Performsotherrelatedduties,asassigned.