Senior Server And Storage Specialist

Kingston University; England; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Kingston University Information Technology Services is seeking a skilled sysadmin to manage large server fleets and a partly on-premises datacentre environment. The role emphasizes independent time management, project work, and effective communication with service owners across campus.

Applicants should be comfortable with Windows, VMware, and datacentre hardware; cloud skills are encouraged and training is provided to build AWS and automation capabilities.

Qualifications

• Experience as a sysadmin managing large server fleets.
• Proficient with Windows and VMware environments.
• Ability to work independently and on projects without micromanagement.
• Strong communication with service owners across the university.

Skills

Sysadmin experience

Windows

VMware

Datacentres

Linux

AWS knowledge

Independent project work

Communication skills

Tools

VMware

Windows Server

AWS (basic)

Linux

Job description

Our team is responsible for the university data centres and cloud; we are looking for a skilled technician who can self-manage their time and work on projects without micromanagement.

AWS experience is preferred, though not required. An interest in the cloud and being trained in cloud skills is necessary for the role. At the same time, we continue to manage a server environment on the premises for the short and near term.

The successful candidate needs experience as a sysadmin, working with large server fleets, Windows, DC’s and VMware. Experience working in universities is beneficial.

For a full list of areas of responsibility, please refer to the attached job description.

The Person

We are currently modernising our native AWS cloud environment, where we host most of our servers. Whilst cloud experience is beneficial, it is not required, we are training and upskilling our existing staff in cloud skill. This job is perfect if you want to gain cloud skills and work operationally.

Knowledge and experience of system administration and managing large server environments is essential.

The ideal candidate will have experience working independently and as part of projects. You must be able to communicate effectively with service owners from all parts of the university; therefore, good communication skills are essential. You must be able to work independently.

Whilst the job description lists various skills, knowledge of Windows, VMware and Datacentres and hardware will be key to the job. Understanding backups, Linux, AWS and automation is advantageous.

Directorate/Function

The Directorate for Finance, HR, and Infrastructure plays a critical role in shaping and supporting the University’s strategic and operational success. With a focus on excellence, efficiency, and people-centred practices, it delivers vital services that influence the daily experience of staff and students while enabling long-term institutional growth. These services span financial management, workforce development, and the maintenance of both physical and digital infrastructure - ensuring the University’s operations and ambitions are fully supported. With a clear focus on service quality, innovation, and people-first practices, the Directorate operates in close partnership with academic faculties and senior leadership to ensure institutional goals are achieved. It is driven by a commitment to excellence, service, and sustainable progress, promoting a culture where collaboration, innovation and transformation thrive. This is an opportunity to join a proactive, solutions-focused team whose work directly contributes to the University’s continued success.

Work at the forefront of digital technology

Information and Technology Services provides and supports digital services and facilities for students and staff to enable learning, teaching, research and administration. Our key functions are to innovate, implement and support an extensive range of digital services across the University to assist our community access and process information to achieve their goals.

In addition to making a valuable contribution to sustainability across the University, our staff share a high customer service ethic and commitment to continuous improvement.