Network Systems Administrator

Job Title: Network Systems Administrator

Location: District 

Reports To: Director of Technology

FLSA Status: Exempt

The Network Systems Administrator will design, install, secure, and maintain the district's wired and wireless hardware, software, and network ecosystems. Working with the Director of Technology, they will manage all academic and administrative technology systems to ensure they are reliable, secure, and resilient, and optimized to support modern instructional goals across all schools.

• Infrastructure Management: Coordinate special projects including network wiring plans and LAN/WAN hardware/software architecture, including switching and wireless infrastructure.
• Virtualization & Server Management: Architect and maintain the district's server infrastructure using Microsoft Hyper-V; manage failover clustering and storage to ensure high availability for core services, including identity, authentication, and network management systems.
• Hybrid Ecosystem Coordination: Manage the Google Workspace for Education and Microsoft 365, and Active Directory systems, ensuring seamless Single Sign On (SSO) and data integrity across both platforms, in coordination with directory and identity services.
• Cybersecurity & Data Privacy: Oversee comprehensive security frameworks, including firewall configuration, anti-virus/EDR endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems, and the protection of server and cloud hosted data.
• MFA & Access Control: Implement and support multi factor authentication (MFA) for staff and administrative systems, and manage secure remote access and VPN solutions in alignment with district security policies.
• Network Protocols: Administer and maintain core network protocols including DNS, DHCP, and modern routing/switching protocols, VLANs, QoS, and role-based access controls to segment student, staff, administrative, and guest networks.
• Wireless & Mobility: Configure, monitor, and tune Aruba wireless controllers, access points, and associated tools to provide secure, high density Wi Fi coverage that supports 1:1 devices, online assessments, and instructional applications.
• Business Continuity: Implement and maintain robust backups and disaster recovery plans for all network, server, and hardware systems, including configuration backups for switches, wireless controllers, and firewalls.
• Communications & Security Systems: Oversee VoIP telephone systems, IP based surveillance, and building security systems, ensuring they are properly segmented and prioritized on the network.
• Vendor & Project Management: Coordinate with vendors to resolve service outages and assist the Director in the selection of new hardware and software, including internet service providers and security vendors.
• Strategic Advisement: Serve on the District Technology Committee and advise the Director on infrastructure trends and best practices in the K 12 environment, including cybersecurity, cloud integration, and network modernization.
• Monitoring & Incident Response: Utilize network monitoring tools and EDR dashboards to track system health, respond to alerts, investigate incidents, and document remediation steps.
• Documentation & Training: Maintain accurate network diagrams, inventories, and configuration records, and provide Tier 3 support and guidance to technology staff on network related issues.
• Continuing professional development to stay current with changing technology.
• Other duties as assigned

Skills:

As outlined above

Knowledge:

Advanced knowledge of Aruba switching and wireless products or equivalent, Microsoft network design, Hyper-V virtualization, and cross platform integration between Windows, Mac OS, and ChromeOS, including experience with VLANs, routing, VPNs, and firewall technologies.  Understanding of endpoint detection and response solutions, MFA, secure remote access, and best practices in network and data security in K-12 environments.  K-12 Context: Understanding of how technologies are used as instructional tools to promote teaching and learning in a K- 12 classroom, including support for online testing and 1:1 programs.

Abilities:

Ability to establish effective working relationships and communicate with people of diverse technical backgrounds while maintaining strict confidentiality, including the ability to explain complex technical issues in accessible language to school and district staff.

Working Environment:

The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions may require the following physical demands: some lifting, pushing, pulling, and fine finger dexterity. Generally the job requires 70% sitting, 10% walking, and 20% standing. This job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment.

Experience:

Proven experience in the operations of computer information systems, network design, and troubleshooting of information technology hardware and software, including hands on support of enterprise wired/wireless networks and security tools in a school or similar environment.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field, or the equivalent work-related experience required (any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the knowledge and abilities to fulfill the position functions will be considered.

Certification(s):

Industry-recognized certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Network+, Microsoft, Aruba, and Google certifications are preferred.