Cloud & Application Engineer

Inside Higher Ed; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Inside Higher Ed is seeking a Systems Administrator II in Los Angeles to manage our cloud-based application support. This role involves ensuring reliable system operations, enhancing automation, and providing technical support across various platforms.

The role demands strong organizational skills, a deep understanding of IT support principles, and the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders. A Bachelor's Degree in IT or related field is preferred, alongside 3+ years of related experience.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of IT support principles and practices.
• Experience with cloud platforms, hardware, and software troubleshooting.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Support and enhance the department's technology environment.
• Assist in design and implementation of cloud-based tools.
• Collaborate across teams to resolve technical issues.

Skills

IT support principles

Cloud platforms knowledge (Azure, AWS)

Scripting and automation (PowerShell, Python)

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in IT, Computer Science, or related field

3+ years of experience in systems administration or IT support

Tools

Microsoft 365

Teams

SharePoint

Job description

Department Summary

The LADCFS + UCLA Academy of Workforce Excellence operates under a Title IV-E training contract between UCLA and the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (LADCFS). In collaboration with seven universities—UCLA, USC, CSULB, CSULA, CSUN, CSUDH, and APU—the Academy provides comprehensive training programs designed to equip LA Department of Children and Family Services (LADCFS) staff at all levels with the skills and knowledge necessary for child welfare services. The Academy facilitates foundational training, in‑service education, and specialized off‑site programs to enhance professional development. With a focus on workforce preparedness, operational excellence, and innovative training methodologies, the Academy plays a critical role in shaping the future of child welfare professionals in Los Angeles County.

Position Summary

The Systems Administrator II – Cloud & Application Support plays a key role in supporting and enhancing the department’s technology environment through a combination of advanced IT support and cloud‑based application solutions. This position ensures reliable day‑to‑day system operations while contributing to the development of automation, integrations, and scalable cloud services. The incumbent provides technical support across end‑user systems and enterprise platforms, while also assisting in the design and implementation of cloud‑based tools and workflows that improve efficiency and data management. This role works closely with internal stakeholders, central IT, and external partners to resolve issues, support initiatives, and drive continuous system improvements. Additionally, the position supports documentation, system maintenance, and operational processes to ensure consistency, security, and performance across the technology landscape. A critical component of this role is the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and contribute to both operational support and strategic technology efforts.

Salary & Compensation

• UCLA provides a full pay range. Actual salary offers consider factors, including budget, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business considerations. Salary offers at the top of the range are not common. Visit UC Benefit package to discover benefits that start on day one, and UC Total Compensation Estimator to calculate the total compensation value with benefits.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of IT support principles and practices, including troubleshooting hardware, software, and network‑related issues across multiple platforms. (Required)
• Working knowledge of systems administration practices, including user account management, operating systems, permissions, system configurations, and performance monitoring. Knowledge of system integration concepts, including APIs, data workflows, and automation tools. (Required)
• Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., Microsoft Azure, AWS) and understanding of cloud‑based infrastructure and services. Ability to support and maintain enterprise applications such as Microsoft 365, Teams, SharePoint, and other collaboration tools. (Required)
• Skill in scripting and automation using tools such as PowerShell, Python, or similar technologies to improve operational efficiency. (Required)
• Demonstrated ability to work independently in a satellite location and be adept at managing multiple and frequently changing priorities. Ability to interact effectively with Center staff, trainers, other staff and all levels of DCFS staff by telephone, email, or in person to accurately perform task (Required)
• Ability to interact effectively with Center staff, trainers, other staff and all levels of DCFS staff by telephone, email, or in person to accurately perform tasks and responsibilities. (Required)
• Oral communication skills to speak effectively, to engage in fact finding, to convey information clearly and accurately, and to clarify conceptual issues and policy matters related to the Center on Child Welfare. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. (Required)
• Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times and to represent the Director of Facilities and Operations in a professional and courteous manner. (Required)
• Ability to support and maintain enterprise applications such as Microsoft 365, Teams, SharePoint, and other collaboration tools. Ability to support and maintain systems used for training and data tracking, ensuring data accuracy, reporting functionality, and system reliability. (Required)
• Ability to create and maintain logical and well‑organized computer and digital or paper files and records. Strong organizational and documentation skills, with the ability to maintain accurate system records, procedures, and technical documentation. (Required)
• Ability to interpret, apply and explain training rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the AWE to trainees. (Required)
• Ability to provide own transportation to travel to training sites including but not limited to; Norwalk, Palmdale, Glendale, DTLA, Whittier and surrounding LA County areas. (Required)

Education, Licenses, Certifications & Personal Affiliations

• Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience. Master’s degree preferred in a related field (e.g., Information Systems, Computer Science, Business Administration, or Technology Management). (Preferred) Or
• 3+ years of experience in systems administration, IT support, cloud technologies, or application support, with an equivalent combination of education and hands‑on technical experience. (Preferred) Or
• 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in IT support, systems administration, cloud platforms, or technical operations may be considered in lieu of a degree. (Preferred)

Special Conditions for Employment

• Background Check: Continued employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.
• Live Scan Background Check: A Live Scan background check must be completed prior to the start of employment.
• E-Verify Check: The position is funded by federal contracts/subcontracts requiring UCLA to notify job applicants that an E-Verify check will be conducted and the successful candidate(s) must pass the E-Verify check.
• Age Requirement: Candidate(s) must be 18 years or older to be eligible to be hired.
• COVID and Flu Vaccinations: The position is subject to providing evidence of inoculation.

Schedule

8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Union/Policy Covered

TX-Systemwide Technical