Systems & Automation Engineer

Ekco; Durbanville; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cloud solutions provider is seeking a Systems & Automation Engineer in Durbanville, South Africa. In this role, you will develop automation solutions, manage patching systems, and ensure compliance. Ideal candidates will have strong scripting skills, experience with Windows Server, and a proactive mindset to drive continuous improvement. The role is focused on delivering secure and efficient outcomes through automation.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in one or more scripting languages.
• Proven background in automation and vulnerability remediation.
• Hands-on experience with Windows Server patching.
• Familiarity with version control tools such as Git.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Rapidly develop automation scripts across various environments.
• Identify and remediate system vulnerabilities in Windows environments.
• Manage enterprise patching systems for timely updates.
• Collaborate with teams to streamline patching workflows.
• Troubleshoot automation and patching workflows.

Skills

PowerShell

Python

Bash

Windows Server Patching

SCCM

Git

Freshservice

ServiceNow

Job description

About Ekco

🚀 Founded in 2016 Ekco is now one of the fastest growing cloud solution providers in Europe!

We specialise in enabling companies to progress along the path of cloud maturity, managing transformation and driving better outcomes from our clients’ existing technology investments.

☁️ In a few words, we take businesses to the cloud and back!

🌍 We have over 1000 highly talented and supportive colleagues (and counting) across a number of regional offices in the UK, Benelux, South Africa, Malaysia & Ireland.

About the Role

We are seeking a Systems & Automation Engineer to join our Central Services team to deliver high impact automation solutions, vulnerability remediate and maintain our patching systems. This is a results driven role, requiring a strong focus on outcomes and efficiency. You will be responsible for rapidly developing and deploying automation scripts across various environments, creating scripted automation, hot remediation for Windows operation systems and maintaining our core Patching platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Rapidly design, develop, and deliver automation scripts using a range of scripting languages (e.g. PowerShell, Python, Bash).
• Proactively identify, assess, and remediate system vulnerabilities across Windows environments and associated infrastructure.
• Manage and maintain enterprise patching systems to ensure timely deployment of updates and hotfixes.
• Oversee patch compliance reporting and work with stakeholders to resolve exceptions or failed deployments.
• Collaborate with Service Delivery and Security teams to automate and streamline patching and remediation workflows.
• Ensure all delivered automation and remediation solutions are reliable, secure, and well documented.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues in automation and patching workflows to minimise downtime and enhance operational efficiency.
• Support time-sensitive initiatives such as platform migrations, upgrades, and service improvements through automation and patch management.
• Deliver measurable results against agreed performance metrics, milestones, and objectives.

Key Requirements

• Strong experience in one or more scripting languages (e.g. PowerShell, Python, Bash), with flexibility to adapt to others as required.
• Proven background in delivering automation and vulnerability remediation within enterprise IT environments.
• Hands-on experience with Windows Server patching, WSUS, SCCM, or equivalent enterprise patch management tools.
• Solid understanding of Microsoft infrastructure and services (e.g. Active Directory, Microsoft 365, Windows Server).
• Knowledge of vulnerability management processes, risk assessment, and remediation prioritisation.
• Familiarity with version control tools such as Git.Experience working with ITSM systems such as Freshservice or ServiceNow.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to design and implement practical solutions at pace.
• Ability to produce clear, concise technical documentation to support handover and ongoing maintenance.

Desirable Experience

• Exposure to cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure and their associated automation and patch management tools.
• Experience with automation and configuration management frameworks (e.g. Ansible, Terraform, DSC).
• Knowledge of vulnerability scanning tools (e.g. Qualys, Intruder, Rapid7) and how to integrate them into remediation workflows.
• Background working within a Managed Service Provider (MSP) environment.

Personal Attributes

• Results oriented, with a clear focus on delivering secure, high-quality outcomes within agreed timescales.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong communicator, capable of engaging technical and non-technical stakeholders to drive progress and resolve issues.
• Detail driven and methodical, ensuring consistency, reliability, and accuracy across all deliverables.
• Proactive mindset with a passion for continuous improvement, automation, and operational excellence.