Systems Specialist

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled and proactive Systems Specialist to join our Technology Operations team. This role is responsible for the administration, implementation, monitoring, and support of the organization's on-premises infrastructure, ensuring systems are secure, resilient, and aligned with Enterprise Architecture, IT Strategy, and Information Security policies. The successful candidate will play a critical role in managing Microsoft and VMware environments, supporting core infrastructure services, maintaining business continuity, and driving operational excellence across the organization's technology landscape.

Key Responsibilities

Infrastructure Operations & Administration

• Manage, maintain, and optimize enterprise on-premises infrastructure and services.
• Administer and support Windows and Linux server environments.
• Perform operating system upgrades, patch management, and infrastructure maintenance activities.
• Manage Microsoft Active Directory, file services, DNS, DHCP, and identity-related services.
• Support Microsoft 365 services including Exchange Online, Teams, OneDrive, and related collaboration platforms.
• Administer VMware private cloud infrastructure and virtualized environments.
• Manage server hardware, storage platforms, and associated infrastructure services.
• Maintain email, antivirus, anti-spam, endpoint protection, and security platforms.
• Support call center infrastructure and related technologies.
• Administer SCCM, SCOM, Intune (MDM/MAM), and endpoint management solutions.
• Manage proxy and reverse proxy technologies to ensure secure and reliable connectivity.

Monitoring, Incident Management & Security

• Monitor infrastructure performance, availability, and security events across the environment.
• Investigate and respond to incidents, alerts, and service disruptions in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Perform regular system health checks, capacity reviews, and performance assessments.
• Monitor infrastructure risks and address vulnerabilities within agreed remediation timelines.
• Ensure compliance with organizational security standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices.

Backup, Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity

• Manage enterprise backup solutions and recovery processes.
• Execute disaster recovery and business continuity procedures to ensure operational resilience.
• Perform regular testing and validation of backup and recovery capabilities.
• Maintain accurate documentation of recovery plans, configurations, and infrastructure assets.

Infrastructure Improvement & Automation

• Evaluate existing infrastructure designs and recommend improvements aligned with industry best practices.
• Identify opportunities for automation using PowerShell and other administration tools.
• Maintain accurate infrastructure inventories, documentation, standards, and operational procedures.
• Support infrastructure projects, technology upgrades, migrations, and implementation initiatives.
• Research emerging technologies and provide recommendations to enhance services and operational efficiency.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Support

• Work closely with infrastructure, cybersecurity, applications, and service management teams to support business objectives.
• Collaborate on the secure design, implementation, and deployment of new technologies.
• Support security awareness initiatives by helping employees understand technology and information security requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and support during audits, assessments, and compliance reviews.

Desired Candidate Profile

• Essential Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Relevant Microsoft certifications such as Microsoft Certified Administrator or Microsoft Certified Solutions Architect.
• VMware Certified Professional (VCP) or equivalent VMware certification.
• ITIL Certification.
• Preferred MBA or postgraduate qualification.
• Project Management certification (Agile and/or Waterfall).
• ISO 27001 certification or related information security credentials.

Experience

• Essential Minimum 5 years of experience in Systems Administration or Infrastructure Support roles.
• Proven experience managing enterprise on-premises Microsoft and VMware environments.
• Experience administering Windows Server, Linux, virtualization, storage, and networking technologies.
• Preferred Experience managing infrastructure projects and technology implementations.
• Exposure to large enterprise environments with complex infrastructure requirements.

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Essential Strong experience designing, implementing, and supporting on-premises infrastructure solutions.
• In-depth knowledge of compute, storage, networking, virtualization, security, and identity management technologies.
• Expertise in Microsoft ecosystem technologies, including Active Directory, Microsoft 365, SCCM, SCOM, and Intune.
• Hands-on experience with VMware infrastructure and virtualization platforms.
• Experience with PowerShell and other automation tools.
• Knowledge of enterprise backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity solutions.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high service standards.
• Preferred Knowledge of GDPR and international data privacy regulations.
• Understanding of PCI standards, ISO frameworks, and UAE cybersecurity regulations.
• Familiarity with information security governance, risk management, and operational security practices.