Senior Systems Administrator

Safran S.A.; Redmond (WA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Safran S.A. is seeking a senior IT Infrastructure lead responsible for designing, implementing, and securing the organization’s IT stack. You will manage servers, networks, storage, and virtualization while guiding junior staff and driving high-impact projects.

Responsibilities include system optimization, incident resolution, and cloud migrations (AWS/Azure). Strong leadership and architectural skills are essential for delivery and compliance across the enterprise.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in CS/IT or a related field.
• 5–10 years of professional systems administration experience is a prerequisite, with a proven track record of managing complex IT environments.
• Proficiency with Windows Server, Linux, and virtualization technologies (VMware).
• Strong understanding of networking concepts (LAN/WAN, TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP) and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure).
• Experience with storage systems (SAN/NAS, Fiber Channel, iSCSI) and some database administration tasks.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and maintain servers and network devices.
• Monitor performance and implement upgrades, patches, and capacity planning.
• Implement security controls, access management, and data protection measures.
• Troubleshoot complex hardware, software, and network issues; mentor junior staff.
• Lead IT projects such as upgrades, migrations to cloud platforms, and new deployments.
• Design and test backup and disaster recovery procedures.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Leadership

Project management

Independent worker

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/IT or related field

Tools

VMware

Windows Server

Windows

Linux

AWS

Azure

SAN/NAS

Fiber Channel

iSCSI

Networking (LAN/WAN, TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP)

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Responsible for the organization's entire IT infrastructure, focusing on the design, implementation, maintenance, and security of complex systems. This is a senior-level position that often involves project leadership, mentoring junior staff, and resolving the most complex technical issues.

Key Responsibilities

• System and Network Management: Install, configure, and maintain servers, network devices (routers, firewalls), operating systems (Windows, Linux/Unix), and software applications.
• Performance and Optimization: Monitor system performance, analyze data, and implement enhancements, upgrades, and patches to ensure optimal performance, availability, and capacity.
• Security and Compliance: Implement, and monitor security protocols, including access controls, firewalls, and data protection measures, to safeguard the organization's data and systems.
• Troubleshooting and Support: Diagnose and resolve complex hardware, software, and network issues, often serving as an escalation point for junior IT staff or internal customers of IT.
• Project Management: Lead or serve as a subject matter expert on IT projects, such as system upgrades, migrations to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and new system deployments.
• Backup and Disaster Recovery: Design and implement robust backup and recovery procedures and test disaster recovery plans to ensure business continuity.
• Automation and Documentation: Automate routine tasks using scripting languages (e.g., PowerShell, Python) and create and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, policies, and procedures.
• Leadership and Mentoring: Supervise, train, and mentor junior IT staff members, promoting professional development and effective teamwork.

Education

• A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is required. However, extensive experience may be a substitute in certain situations.

Experience

• 5-10 years of professional systems administration experience is a prerequisite, with a proven track record of managing complex IT environments.

Technical Expertise

• Proficiency in various operating systems (Windows Server, Windows, Linux).
• Experience with virtualization technologies (VMware Specifically).
• Strong understanding of networking concepts (LAN/WAN, TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP).
• Familiarity with cloud computing platforms (AWS and Azure at a minimum).
• Experience with the deployment and maintenance of storage systems (SAN, NAS) both Fiber Channel and iSCSI is required.
• Some experience with database administration tasks is a required.

Soft Skills

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact with technical and non-technical staff.
• Leadership and project management abilities.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.