Senior Infrastructure Engineer

Metacom; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 900 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading IT services company in South Africa is looking for a Senior Infrastructure Engineer to enhance the reliability and security of their IT infrastructure. Candidates should have over 5 years of experience in system administration, expertise in automation with Python and Ansible, and a solid background in cloud technologies and Linux environments. This role includes leading server management and implementing innovative technologies.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Linux environments (Red Hat, CentOS, or Ubuntu).
• 5+ years of experience in system administration focusing on automation.
• Expert-level skills in Python and Ansible for automation.
• Experience with infrastructure as code tools like Terraform or CloudFormation.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the management of server infrastructure and ensure high availability.
• Develop and implement automation solutions to streamline tasks.
• Design and deploy containerized applications using Docker and Kubernetes.
• Manage security compliance across all systems and applications.
• Mentor and guide junior system administrators.

Skills

Linux expertise

Cloud technologies

Automation with Python and Ansible

Containerization with Docker and Kubernetes

Microsoft Exchange Server

Active Directory management

Email security solutions

Networking concepts

Problem-solving skills

Education

5+ years of system administration experience

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Ansible

AWS

Azure

Google Cloud

Veeam

Bitdefender

Job description

Introduction

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Infrastructure Engineer to join our NOC team.

You will play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability, performance, and security of our critical IT infrastructure, leading the implementation and maintenance of innovative technologies.

This position requires a strong foundation in traditional system administration practices, coupled with expertise in automation, cloud technologies, containerization, Linux environments, Microsoft / Exchange Server and Active Directory, and email security solutions.

Duties & Responsibilities

Infrastructure Leadership : Lead the management and maintenance of server infrastructure, including Dell iDRAC, HP iLO, and virtualization platforms like VMware ESXi and Nutanix HCI. Design, implement, and optimize system configurations for high availability, scalability, and performance. Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for system configurations, processes, and troubleshooting procedures. Automation & Scripting : Develop and implement automation solutions using Python and Ansible to streamline routine tasks, provisioning, and infrastructure management. Automate system deployments, configuration changes, and security updates to minimize manual intervention and ensure consistency. Collaborate with other teams to integrate automation into their workflows and improve overall efficiency. Cloud Technologies & Containerization : Lead the implementation and management of cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, including infrastructure as code (IaC) and deployment strategies. Design and deploy containerized applications and microservices using Docker and Kubernetes. Manage container orchestration and lifecycle management using Kubernetes. Ensure the security and resilience of containerized environments. Linux Expertise : Possess strong knowledge of Linux environments, including Red Hat, CentOS, or Ubuntu. Proficient in administering, updating, and deploying applications and services in Linux environments. Experience with package management systems like yum and apt. Expertise in managing system logs, troubleshooting Linux-specific issues, and implementing security hardening techniques. Microsoft / Exchange Server & Active Directory : Demonstrate in-depth knowledge and experience with Microsoft, specifically Exchange Server and Active Directory. Proficient in managing user accounts, mail flow, security policies, and other Exchange Server features. Experience with migrating on-premises Exchange environments to Microsoft / Exchange Online. Experience with Active Directory management, including user and group management, permissions, and security policies. Email Security : Experience with email security solutions like Mimecast for spam filtering, phishing protection, and email archiving. Proficient in configuring and managing email security policies. Understanding of email security best practices and industry standards. Security & Compliance : Ensure the security and compliance of all systems and applications. Implement and maintain security controls, access management policies, and vulnerability management practices. Stay up-to-date on evolving security threats and best practices. Team Leadership & Mentoring : Mentor and guide junior system administrators, providing technical expertise and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Collaborate with other IT teams to ensure seamless integration of systems and services.

Desired Experience & Qualification

Minimum Qualifications : 5+ years of proven experience in system administration with a strong focus on automation, cloud technologies, containerization, and Linux environments. Expert-level proficiency in Python and Ansible for automation and infrastructure management. Experience with containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes. Strong understanding of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and cloud-native architectures. Proficient in Linux system administration (Red Hat, CentOS, or Ubuntu), including scripting, package management, and security hardening. Experience with infrastructure as code (IaC) tools like Terraform or CloudFormation. Strong knowledge of networking concepts and protocols. Excellent problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues. Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Preferred Qualifications : Relevant certifications in technologies like AWS, Azure, Kubernetes, Docker, Ansible, and Linux (e.g., Red Hat Certified System Administrator).

Experience with various database technologies, including MariaDB, SQL Server, and MySQL. Experience with backup solutions (Veeam) and antivirus management (Bitdefender).

Experience with DevOps methodologies and CI / CD pipelines. Experience with incident management and troubleshooting. Experience with security tools and practices (e.g., firewalls, intrusion detection systems, vulnerability scanning).

Personal Attributes

Strong analytical and critical thinking skills. Detail-oriented and meticulous in work execution. Passionate about technology and a continuous learner. Strong work ethic and a commitment to exceeding expectations.

Interested?