Zayed University

The Opportunity  

The Systems Administrator will be responsible for the day-to-day operations, technical design, planning, implementation, and the highest level of performance tuning and recovery procedures for mission critical enterprise systems. The successful candidate will serve as a technical expert in the area of system administration for complex operating systems and virtual infrastructure, and will recommend the redesign and configuration of operating systems and system applications. In addition, the individual will investigate and analyze feasibility of system requirements, develop system specifications, identify solutions and provide project leadership and management in order to provide a high level of service to the customers of the department.    

The Responsibilities  

Oversees the day-to-day operations of the host computers, servers, virtual infrastructure, virtual desktops, backup by day-to-day administration, monitoring system performance, configuration, maintenance and repair. Ensures that records of system downtime and equipment inventory are properly maintained. Applies revisions to host system firmware and software. Works with vendors to assist support activities. Develops new system and application implementation plans, custom scripts (bash shell scripting, Perl scripting, VB scripting) and testing procedures to ensure operational reliability.

Trains technical staff in how to use new software and hardware developed and/or acquired. Ensures the availability of networking applications by providing first/second level support services for the LAN/WAN with minimal down time Performs troubleshooting as required. As such, leads problem-solving efforts often involving outside vendors and other support personnel and/or organizations. Establishes, maintains and manages users Active Directory accounts and Exchange Mailboxes. Installs, modifies and maintains systems and utility software on server computer systems. Provides server support related to other software.

Establishes guidelines and methods for the installation and management of the host computer operating systems (windows, Linux, Mac), virtual infrastructure (VMware vSphere), virtual desktops (VMware View), storage disk arrays, fiber channel switches, tape libraries, backup (Symantec NetBackup) and other components. Ensures high availability and acceptable levels of performance of mission critical host computer resources.

Develops procedures to maintain security and protect systems from unauthorized use, acts of nature and user abuse. Develops procedures, programs and documentation for backup and restoration of host operating systems and host-based applications. Develops and coordinates project directions and schedules to maximize benefits and minimize impacts on the customer organizations. Provides leadership in planning and implementation of projects for computer operations and enterprise systems administration.

Develops tools, procedures, and training sessions for Operations, Client Support and Systems Development staff to assist with work. Maintains the data center and computer host systems including hardware, software and equipment such as air-conditioning system, UPS (uninterrupted power system) and fire protection system. Stays current with technological developments in systems administration technology and recommends ways for PCC to take advantage of new technology.    

The Requirements  

A Bachelors degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of both education or experience. Minimum of 4 years of work experience in complex systems design, programming and systems software, support, knowledge of network architectures and Microsoft, Linux and VMware expertise. Demonstrated knowledge of programming languages (Perl, Unix Shell script, VB Script) and operating systems; current equipment and technologies in use; Windows/Linux system administration, enterprise backup and recovery procedures, and system performance monitoring tools; effective project management techniques; principles and practices of effective management and supervision.

Experience with Windows Active Directory, Exchange 2010, VMware vSphere, VMware View, Symantec Enterprise Netback, WINS, DNS, DHCP, postfix, sendmail and listserv services. The Benefits The University’s benefits package is attractive, with salary free of tax in the U.A.E., housing allowance, and annual leave benefits.  Educational subsidies for children and healthcare is provided to the employee and sponsored family members.  

To Apply

In addition to fully completing an online application form, attach a cover letter, a current CV, and provide the names and contact details of three professional references.