I.T Specialist

Profile Personnel; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

Profile Personnel is looking for a skilled IT Specialist to ensure the reliability and performance of IT infrastructure in a fast-paced automotive manufacturing environment. Responsibilities include managing hardware and systems, supporting cybersecurity initiatives, and providing end-user support.

The ideal candidate will have a relevant qualification and 2–5 years of experience in IT infrastructure and systems administration. Experience with Windows Servers and networking is essential. A strong focus on compliance and cybersecurity will be beneficial.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years' experience in IT infrastructure, systems administration, or network support.
• Experience supporting Windows Server environments and Active Directory.
• Familiarity with LAN, WAN, VPN, DNS, DHCP, switches, routers, and firewalls.

Responsibilities

• Install and maintain IT infrastructure including desktops and servers.
• Administer and support Windows Server and Active Directory environments.
• Ensure network connectivity and monitor performance.

Skills

Windows Server support

Active Directory management

Networking fundamentals

Cybersecurity awareness

User support

Education

BTech, Bachelor's Degree, or equivalent qualification in IT

Tools

Microsoft 365

ERP systems

Job description

About the Company

Our client, a leading international automotive manufacturing company, is seeking a skilled and proactive IT Specialist to join their team.

Operating within a Tier 1 automotive manufacturing environment, the successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability, security, and performance of the company's IT infrastructure, systems, networks, and production support technologies. This position offers the opportunity to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while contributing to digital transformation, cybersecurity, and continuous improvement initiatives.

The Role

Reporting to the Commercial Manager, the IT Specialist will be responsible for supporting and maintaining the organisation's IT infrastructure, systems, networks, cybersecurity controls, and end‑user environments. The role supports both plant operations and commercial functions, ensuring business continuity, operational uptime, and compliance with automotive industry standards.

Key Responsibilities

IT Infrastructure & Hardware Management

• Install, configure, and maintain desktops, laptops, servers, printers, scanners, handheld devices, industrial PCs, and production floor terminals.
• Support manufacturing and production-line IT equipment.
• Manage hardware lifecycle planning, asset registers, and equipment procurement.
• Coordinate with suppliers and service providers regarding IT equipment and services.
• Manage company mobile device and cellphone contracts.

Systems Administration

• Administer Windows Server environments and Active Directory.
• Manage user accounts, permissions, and access controls.
• Support ERP, manufacturing, and business‑critical systems.
• Administer Microsoft 365 and cloud‑based collaboration platforms.
• Perform system updates, patch management, backups, and disaster recovery activities.
• Support EDI systems and customer portals where applicable.

Network & Connectivity Management

• Maintain LAN, WAN, Wi‑Fi, VPN, and multi‑site network connectivity.
• Configure and support switches, routers, firewalls, and network security devices.
• Monitor network performance and proactively resolve connectivity issues.
• Ensure stable connectivity for production systems, remote users, and business operations.

Cybersecurity & Compliance

• Support cybersecurity initiatives aligned with automotive industry requirements.
• Assist with compliance relating to TISAX, ISO 27001 principles, POPIA, and customer security standards.
• Manage endpoint security, antivirus solutions, and access controls.
• Participate in vulnerability assessments, incident response, and security audits.
• Maintain cybersecurity awareness across the organisation.

Production & Operational Support

• Provide IT support to manufacturing operations to minimise downtime.
• Support barcode scanners, label printers, traceability systems, and quality data capture solutions.
• Assist with automation, digitalisation, and system integration projects.
• Support new production line installations and technology implementations.

End‑User Support & Service Delivery

• Provide first‑ and second‑line support to users across the business.
• Manage onboarding and offboarding processes, including user accounts, devices, and permissions.
• Maintain helpdesk systems and incident tracking.
• Deliver user training and cybersecurity awareness initiatives.

Reporting & Documentation

• Maintain IT policies, procedures, and infrastructure documentation.
• Assist with IT performance reporting and risk management.
• Support commercial reporting, dashboards, KPI tracking, and database maintenance.

Minimum Requirements

• BTech, Bachelor's Degree, Honours Degree, or equivalent qualification in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field.
• 2–5 years' experience in an IT infrastructure, systems administration, or network support role.
• Experience supporting Windows Server environments and Active Directory.
• Strong understanding of networking fundamentals, including LAN, WAN, VPN, DNS, DHCP, switches, routers, and firewalls.
• Experience with hardware support, troubleshooting, and user support.
• Exposure to backup and disaster recovery processes.
• Experience within a manufacturing, automotive, logistics, or industrial environment will be advantageous.

Advantageous Experience

• Microsoft 365 Administration.
• Cybersecurity frameworks and standards.
• TISAX, ISO 27001, or related compliance environments.
• ERP systems and manufacturing technologies.
• Cloud technologies and digital transformation initiatives.
• Power BI, reporting tools, or data analytics platforms.