Sr. IT Systems Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Manchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the IT sector is seeking a Sr. IT Systems Engineer in Manchester. The role focuses on supporting high-complexity technical issues, managing Windows Server environments, and ensuring seamless client interactions. Ideal candidates will bring strong communication skills, deep technical expertise, and a commitment to delivering exceptional IT service.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of IT support experience; 5+ years in a Level 3 role.
• Expert-level experience with Windows Server and advanced troubleshooting.
• Strong scripting skills in PowerShell or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary escalation point for complex technical issues.
• Provide expert-level support for Windows desktop OS and Microsoft 365.
• Manage endpoint security, EDR platforms, and compliance best practices.

Skills

Windows Server

Advanced troubleshooting

Networking protocols

Scripting

Communication

Education

Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate

CompTIA Security+

Cisco CCNA

Tools

ServiceNow

PowerShell

Microsoft 365

FortiGate

Palo Alto

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

We are seeking a highly experienced Sr. IT Systems Engineer to serve as a senior technical resource in a fast-paced, high-profile environment. This role will provide expert-level support for desktops, systems, networking, cybersecurity, and infrastructure. You will drive the resolution of complex business-critical issues while acting as a technical lead and trusted advisor to clients.

The ideal candidate will have deep technical expertise in Windows Server operating systems, including installation, configuration, performance tuning, role-based services (such as DNS, DHCP, AD DS, File Services), and advanced troubleshooting. You must be able to manage and recover from server-related failures in live production environments, as well as guide infrastructure improvement projects.

Our ideal candidate is a polished and professional engineer who can communicate effectively with executive stakeholders while delivering high-value technical outcomes across modern IT environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the primary escalation point for all high-complexity technical issues across end-user systems, networking, and application environments.
• Provide expert-level support for Windows desktop OS, Microsoft 365, and related productivity tools.
• Install, configure, and maintain Windows Server environments (2016, 2019, 2022) including domain controllers, file servers, print servers, and other core infrastructure services.
• Perform root cause analysis and remediation of Windows Server issues affecting availability, performance, or security.
• Support and administer platforms including Active Directory, Azure AD, and Single Sign-On (SSO) integrations.
• Perform advanced troubleshooting of LAN/WAN networking, VPN connectivity, DNS/DHCP, and wireless infrastructure.
• Manage endpoint security, EDR platforms, vulnerability remediation, and compliance best practices.
• Lead technical implementations for client-specific solutions, including rollouts, upgrades, and migrations.
• Own and manage documentation, asset tracking, ticket resolution, and knowledge base updates.
• Collaborate with MSP engineering teams and third-party vendors to resolve infrastructure or service-related escalations.
• Deliver white-glove support to VIP and executive users, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum discretion.
• Identify recurring issues and recommend/implement proactive solutions to improve the end-user experience and reduce support demand.
• Expertise working with tools like FortiGate, Palo Alto, Azure, AWS, and the Microsoft ecosystem.
• Advanced networking expertise and the ability to understand and design complex IT architectures.

Required Qualifications:

• 10+ years of IT support experience, with 5+ years in a senior or Level 3 technical role.
• Expert-level experience with Windows Server installation, configuration, patching, and role management.
• Proficient in advanced troubleshooting of server-related issues including hardware, software, Active Directory replication, DNS, and Group Policy management.
• Expertise in Windows 10/11, Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive), and mobile device management (iOS, Android).
• Deep knowledge of Active Directory, Azure AD, Exchange Online, and Group Policy.
• Advanced understanding of networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP), VPNs, VLANs, and firewall configurations.
• Hands-on experience with security tools such as EDR, MFA, email security gateways, and compliance frameworks.
• Strong scripting or automation skills in PowerShell or equivalent.
• Familiarity with virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V) and cloud computing fundamentals.
• Excellent communication skills, with proven success in supporting C-level and high-sensitivity users.
• Proficient in ITSM platforms (e.g., ServiceNow, HaloPSA, ConnectWise) and RMM/monitoring tools.
• Ability to work independently and own outcomes from troubleshooting to resolution.
• Industry certifications such as Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert, CompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA, or equivalent are strongly .
• : Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate or similar.

Desired Qualifications:

• Prior experience supporting VIP users in legal, financial, media, or other executive-heavy industries.
• Familiarity with ITIL practices and process-oriented service delivery.
• Experience with MDM tools (Intune, Jamf) and endpoint management policies.
• Exposure to AV/conference room systems, Zoom Rooms, or Microsoft Teams Rooms.
• Strong analytical thinking and the ability to identify and mitigate systemic issues.
• Track record of mentoring junior techs and improving team performance.
• Project management experience or exposure to formal project workflows (Agile, PMP, etc.).