The Systems Administrator is responsible for the design, administration, optimization, and long-term reliability of server and endpoint infrastructure across both customer premises and cloud environments. This role serves as a subject matter expert and technical authority driving proactive improvements in security, automation, patching, and infrastructure standards. This role also provides mentoring to Tier 2 technicians and top tier escalation for complex issues. This position requires a high degree of independence, sound technical judgment, and the ability to balance operational stability with continuous improvement across a diverse MSP environment. RESPONSIBILITIES: Infrastructure Ownership & Engineering • Own the health, performance, and long-term stewardship of Windows and Linux server environments across customer and internal platforms • Architect, implement, and maintain hybrid and cloud-first environments (Azure primarily; AWS/GCP familiarity beneficial) • Lead server and infrastructure modernization efforts, including migrations, hardening, and standardization • Serve as a senior technical advisor for complex infrastructure decisions and customer escalations Security, Patch Management & Resilience • Proactively evaluate, test, and deploy OS, application, and firmware patches, prioritizing stability, CVE mitigation, and business impact • Design, validate, and regularly test backup, recovery, and disaster recovery strategies • Participate in incident response activities, including root cause analysis and post-incident remediation • Collaborate with security and compliance teams to align infrastructure with best practices and regulatory requirements Escalation & Mentorship • Act as a final escalation point for complex or high-impact issues unresolved by Tier 2 technicians • Provide technical guidance, coaching, and mentorship to junior administrators and help desk staff • Design and deliver effective solutions by converting complex technical requirements into clear, actionable outcomes for internal teams and customers Process Improvement & Automation • Evaluate existing systems, workflows, and procedures to identify opportunities for automation, standardization, and efficiency gains • Develop and maintain PowerShell scripts and automation tools to reduce manual effort and improve consistency • Drive documentation standards and contribute advanced resolutions and architectural guidance to the Tier 2 knowledgebase Operational Excellence • Manage assigned tickets and projects to completion, maintaining a strong balance between urgency, quality, and long-term outcomes • Stay current on evolving technologies, security threats, and tooling relevant to managed services environments • Participate in on-call rotations and planned after-hours work for maintenance or incident response. EDUCATION: • Bachelor of Science in Information Systems preferred or equivalent relevant job experience EXPERIENCE: • Bachelor's degree in Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related field preferred, or equivalent combination of education and significant hands-on experience • 5-7+ years of progressive experience in systems administration within complex, multi-tenant, or MSP environments OR • Demonstrated senior-level capability with infrastructure ownership, architectural decision-making, and escalation leadership Preferred Certifications (or equivalent experience) • Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) or higher • Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900) or Enterprise-level Microsoft certifications • Equivalent certifications in AWS or Google Cloud strongly considered • Security-focused certifications are a plus (AZ-500, SC-300/400, etc.) SKILLS / KNOWLEDGE / ABILITIES: • Expert-level troubleshooting skills with a strong analytical and root-cause mindset • Deep experience with: • Active Directory & Entra ID architecture and best practices • DNS, DHCP, Group Policy, and identity management • PowerShell scripting and automation • Virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper-V) • Cloud networking and hybrid connectivity • Strong working knowledge of: • Windows Server, Linux, and macOS environments • Backup, recovery, and business continuity strategies • Web-based and SaaS application support • Proven ability to: • Lead through influence rather than authority • Communicate clearly with both technical and non-technical stakeholders • Operate independently with minimal oversight • Availability for on-call rotation and after-hours work as required • Ability to pass a Fingerprint-Based Background Check REQUIREMENTS: • Remain stationary for extended periods • Ability to communicate information • Ability to operate a computer Get ready to plug into the perks at ALLO: • Free internet? You bet. Plus, awesome discounts on other ALLO services. • Retirement Plan: The fiber future isn't the only one we care about. We match your 401(k) savings up to 5%. • Health and Wellness: Participate in quarterly wellness challenges, and we'll deposit extra cash into your checking or health savings accounts. • Benefits: Our benefits include medical, vision, and dental with low employee costs. Not to mention generous Earned Time Off (ETO) program. • Sponsorships: Are you passionate about a local fundraiser or philanthropy? We strive to give back to what matters most to our communities. • Tuition Assistance: Have a thirst for knowledge? We like that, which is why we're proud to offer assistance with the cost of your tuition.