Position Function:
System Specialist is a position under administrative supervision of the Manager of System Services. Specific activities include: installation, maintenance, and support of software and hardware for Linux and Windows servers in an enterprise networked environment; the management and coordination of enterprise level computing projects; and the support of both physical and virtual computer lab environments.
Salary Grade: 15
Please see Staff Compensation Structure for salary ranges.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Responsible for day-to-day administration, evaluation, troubleshooting, deployment, maintenance, monitoring, and oversight of Windows and Linux server operating systems and hardware.
2. Develop and maintain custom network applications, utilities, and scripts.
3. Assist in developing solutions for computer labs, physical and cloud-based server infrastructure, backup, recovery, and data replication.
4. Provide technical support to other ITS units and to the MSU community at large.
5. Meet regularly with internal and external stakeholders to achieve institutional goals and coordinate large scale projects.
6. Be available weekends and nights for the performance of duties as required.
7. Periodically perform on-call duties by carrying a pager that alerts of system emergencies requiring immediate response 7x24.
8. Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field.
Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience in at least one of the following areas:
• Administration and installation of Microsoft Windows, Active Directory, Red Hat Enterprise Linux or Apple OSX in an enterprise environment.
• Configuration and management of cloud services such as Amazon Web Services, M365 and Azure Cloud.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Microsoft MCSE certification or Red Hat CSA certifications.
• Experience in the configuration, operation, and support of Microsoft Windows Server environments.
• Experience in the configuration, operation, and support of Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server environments.
• Experience with MySQL, Microsoft SQL database environments.
• Experience with design, implementation, operation, and support of enterprise class server environments including backup / recovery, or Storage Area Networks.
• Experience with enterprise virtualization and containerization platforms such as VMware ESXi. Docker, or Kubernetes.
• Experience with enterprise automation platforms such as Ansible, MECM, Terraform or similar solutions.
• Experience with Microsoft System Center suite.
• Experience with Amazon Web Services, M365 and Azure cloud services.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
1. Programming experience with C#, PHP, Java, PowerShell, Python or Perl.
2. Certification in an IT related field.
3. Experience with Apple MacOS administration.
4. Experience with installation and support of Windows and Linux server operating systems.
5. Experience with network protocol analysis/interpretation.
6. Well-developed interpersonal communication skills.
7. Strong written and verbal communications skills.
8. Personal initiative.
9. Ability to efficiently deal with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
10. Ability to meet deadlines and efficiently coordinate unrelated activities.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
1. Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.
2. Job occasionally requires standing, stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
3. Vision requirements: ability to see information in print and/or electronically.
4. Sitting: required to be able to sit for long periods of time, as typical days will involve sitting at computer consoles or sitting in meetings.
5. Dexterity and visual acuity: required to be able to use computer screens and keyboards and manipulate small devices and parts.
6. Hearing requirements: Ability to hear and respond to telephone conversations.
Instructions for Applying:
All applicants must apply online at www.msujobs.msstate.edu by attaching a cover letter and resume which includes the names and addresses of 3 professional references. We will accept applications only from persons with indefinite employment authorization in the U.S., and will not sponsor for nonimmigrant or immigrant status for this position.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
