Academic Cybersecurity Systems Analyst

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology; Calgary; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology is seeking an Academic Cybersecurity Systems Analyst (Cyber Range Lead) to oversee the cybersecurity training environment. This position involves managing complex virtualized infrastructures, ensuring security standards, and collaborating with other analysts for IT services continuity. Candidates should possess a strong background in IT system administration and cybersecurity practices, along with excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

4 Weeks Vacation

14 Flex Days per year

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience administering server and workstation operating systems (Windows/Linux).
• Experience managing virtualization platforms and cloud infrastructure.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and threat detection tools.

Responsibilities

• Deploy, configure, and maintain cyber range infrastructure and support training exercises.
• Collaborate with Systems Analysts on infrastructure enhancements impacting teaching and learning.
• Provide technical support during cyber exercises and manage user accounts.

Skills

Critical Thinking

Analytical Skills

Troubleshooting

Problem-Solving

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Technical Writing

Education

Two-year post-secondary diploma in Information Technology

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Job description

SAIT’s Information Technology Services department handles all software and hardware needs, as well as technological and networking issues for both employees and students who rely heavily on computer systems across our campuses. Technical support — which includes help with computer hardware and software technical problems, email, audio-visual needs and more — is available to everyone at SAIT, whether the problem occurs at home or on-campus.

The Opportunity

We're hiring an Academic Cybersecurity Systems Analyst (Cyber Range Lead) to join the Information Technology Services (ITS) team. This role is responsible for the back-end administration, configuration, and maintenance of the cybersecurity training environment.

In this critical role, you will deploy and support complex virtualized infrastructures, manage cybersecurity training exercises, ensure high system availability, and uphold stringent security standards.

You will collaborate closely with a team of Systems Analysts, actively participating in cross-training initiatives, team projects, and supporting broader Information Technology Services (ITS) operations to ensure overall business continuity and the delivery of technology-enhanced learning at SAIT.

Success in this role demands technical excellence, strong attention to detail, effective collaboration, proactive communication skills, and a commitment to continuous learning.

The Role

• Cyber Range Administration and Technical Support
• Deploy, configure, secure, and maintain cyber range infrastructure, including servers, networks, and virtualization platforms.
• Ensure high availability, optimal performance, and scalability of the cyber range environments.
• Implement and maintain security controls to safeguard cyber range infrastructure against unauthorized access and threats.
• Monitor system logs and network traffic for potential security incidents.
• Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot cybersecurity tools (IDS/IPS, SIEM, malware analysis platforms).
• Manage virtual machines, container environments, and cybersecurity simulation tools.
• Assist stakeholders in designing and deploying effective cybersecurity training scenarios.
• Provide real-time technical support during cyber exercises, competitions, and simulations.
• Create and manage user accounts, access rights, roles, and permissions.
• Perform routine system updates, security patching, backups, and restorations.
• Document system configurations, processes, troubleshooting methods, and best practices.
• Generate reports on system performance, security incidents, and usage statistics.
• Provide proactive technical training and support to students, instructors, and industry professionals.
• Troubleshoot complex technical issues related to networks, hardware, software, and virtualization

• Team Collaboration and Cross-Training
• Collaborate closely with other System Analysts and ITS teams on cross-functional projects, contributing to infrastructure enhancements and upgrades impacting teaching and learning.
• Engage in professional development and continuous learning initiatives to maintain up-to-date expertise.
• Participate actively in cross-training within ITS teams to enhance team capability, flexibility, and business continuity.
• Provide guidance and mentoring to colleagues as needed, sharing cybersecurity expertise and best practices.
• Advise internal stakeholders on emerging technologies, system upgrades, software compatibility, and compliance requirements.
• Assess and recommend improvements to existing technology and processes to streamline operations and reduce costs.
• Monitor, prioritize, and respond promptly to service tickets, ensuring service levels are consistently met.

Qualifications & Experience

• Two-year post-secondary diploma in Information Technology or a related field (Four-year degree is preferred)
• 3–5 years of experience administering server and workstation operating systems (Windows/Linux) in addition to:
• Experience managing and administering virtualization platforms and cloud infrastructure (private or public)
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles, including threat monitoring, detection tools (e.g., IDS/IPS, SIEM), and incident response procedures
• Experience configuring and troubleshooting network technologies (TCP/IP, VPN, SSL/TLS, firewall management)
• Proficiency in scripting languages such as PowerShell, Bash, or Python for system automation and maintenance
• Class 5 Alberta Driver's License (required for occasional travel between locations)
• Familiarity with IT Service Management (ITSM) practices and ticketing systems
• Experience with Active Directory, including user/group management and group policy administration
• Understanding of data center infrastructure and operational best practices

• The following qualifications are considered assets:
• 7–10 years of progressive experience in IT system administration in addition to:
• Extensive experience with virtualized environments (e.g., OpenStack, OpenNebula, VMware, KVM, or Hyper-V)
• Exposure to managing cybersecurity training environments, simulation platforms, or similar lab environments
• Experience supporting complex IT projects, upgrades, and system integrations
• Knowledge of system monitoring tools, performance optimization strategies, and incident response protocols
• ITIL Foundations or equivalent certification
• General IT certifications (e.g., CompTIA, Microsoft, Linux Foundation, virtualization/cloud technologies)
• Industry-recognized certifications or formal training in virtualization/cloud technologies, cybersecurity, network infrastructure, or system administration
• Demonstrated continuous professional development in IT and cybersecurity

Skills Required

• Strong critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Excellent troubleshooting, diagnostic, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Strong collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills across technical and non-technical teams.
• Capacity for learning and adapting quickly to new technologies.
• Strong documentation and technical writing skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and deliver results under pressure.

Job classification: P2065 - Technical Systems Analyst II

Salary range: $90,000 - $100,000

Paid Leave: 4 Weeks Vacation / 14 Flex Days per year

Hours Per Week: 37.5

Posting closing date: June 30th, 2025

About SAIT

SAIT is a global leader in applied education. Named one of Alberta’s Top Employers, we offer the chance to work with a purpose — preparing the next generation of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates and explorers.

Building on our 100+ year history, we’re looking for innovative, bold and collaborative employees who embrace change and deliver world-class customer experiences. Your future starts now at SAIT.

Community and Belonging is essential to achieving SAIT’s vision to be a global leader in applied education. It creates the conditions for a healthy campus where everyone feels welcome, respected and empowered to succeed. SAIT values fairness, shared accountability and the importance of representation. The institution expects a commitment from its students and employees to continuously develop an equitable and inclusive mindset that celebrates diverse experiences and perspectives. Learn more about Community and Belonging at SAIT.

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