Network Administrator - City of Starkville : Job Details

DescriptionGENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:The Network Administrator implements and manages the core technology platforms of the Utilities Department and to serve as the technical lead for the operation of said platforms. This position also performs technical work functions associated with computer system administration, technology training, network administration, database design and maintenance, and computer operations/maintenance. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Conducts research, designs and manages IT hardware and software installations, maintains and operates Utilities wide area and local area networks, network operating systems, protocols, servers, workstations, fiber optics, routers, bridges, switching hubs and other network equipment; manages the installation and maintenance of computer hardware and software.
• Supervises and participates in development and/or purchase of new software systems, evaluation and approval of standards for PC based software, and IT related training for Utilities employees; directs production, inventory and documentation activities, data base administration, purchase of PC software and hardware, creation, procurement and maintenance of imaging capabilities, participate and advise others in creation and management of Internet Web pages.
• Administers/operates Utilities computer systems and peripheral equipment; manages and monitors system activities; manages disk space and disk usage; manages print jobs and automated scheduled jobs; coordinates and controls system security; resolves problems in program operations and commands; identifies and repairs corrupt data files; resolves hardware problems; analyzes system errors; evaluates system performance and modifies.
• Administers networking systems; identifies and resolves network problems; establishes printing capabilities; establishes communications between networks; establishes/troubleshoots access capabilities; adds new users; changes or deletes user accounts.
• Configures, installs and repairs computer hardware and peripheral equipment, specifically: servers, personal computers, monitors, printers, disks, bridges, routers, switches, telecommunication equipment, keyboards, modems, and scanners; tests and evaluates new hardware.
• Broad functional experience with network security principles, including analysis, identification and responses to security risks.
• Directs the installation and management of facility security elements, enhancements and protocols and ability to direct improvements or troubleshooting issues.
• Installs new software programs; upgrades existing programs; repairs software problems.
• Develops customized system parameters, reports, tables, application screens, scripts and programs.
• Works with department management to develop and prioritize the technology training strategy; conducts training needs assessments and develops training curriculum to meet identified needs; develops and maintains an IT training calendar and catalog.
• Coordinates Help Desk operations and technical maintenance activities; receives requests by telephone, e-mail, or in person for assistance in resolving computer problems; prioritizes service requests; discusses problems with users to determine source of specific problems and potential solutions; reviews technical manuals/guides as needed to research problems or provide instructions to users; refers more complex situations to technical staff or outside vendors; performs follow-up as needed to ensure resolution of problems.
• Manages configuration and functionality of the service desk ticketing application and ensure this platform is supportive of technology users.
• Functional experience with the Microsoft Windows networking environment, including Active Directory, Group Policy and supporting technologies such as DNS, DHCP and Remote Access.
• Ability to configure LAN spanning multiple sites including mobile VPN.
• Participate in short- and long-term strategic planning for network infrastructure and services, including the preparation of budgetary and implementation plans.
• Provides technical expertise, troubleshooting and recommended improvements to the Utilities SCADA system.
• Perform testing and evaluation to ensure compliance of new systems, software, hardware and platforms with existing network systems.
• Provides end-user technical support for off the shelf applications, custom applications, desktop operating systems and server operating systems.
• Must accomplish the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations, in a timely manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of client-server network environments, multi-platform computer languages, computer and network operating systems administration, installation, configuration, programming, maintenance, and support.
• Uses, capabilities and requirements of computer systems, the technology of computer and networking equipment design and construction.
• Laws and ordinances affecting information technology, cable and other telecommunication systems.
• Networking devices, servers, and Microsoft operating systems; their uses, configuration, administration and operation.
• Fiber communication networks along with protection and usage strategies.
• Network servers and Microsoft operating systems and its uses, as well as configuration, administration and operation, to include Active Directory, DNS and DHCP.
• Principles and practices of Windows based client-server network environments, server and client operating systems administration, installation, configuration, programming, maintenance and support.

Skill and Ability to:

• Display strong customer service and business acumen, with the ability to carefully evaluate and improve the organization's efficiency, effectiveness, and productivity.
• Can understand and work in a political, public-sector environment; and be flexible, thick-skinned, and able to adapt to changing priorities.
• Strong personnel management and employee relations skills; able to delegate authority and responsibility while promoting individual accountability.
• Flexible and adaptable; works well in a high volume, demanding environment with multiple priorities
• Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of goals.
• Calm under pressure, possessing a positive attitude and a good sense of humor.
• Work from command line interfaces to configure, troubleshoot and maintain network equipment; this experience shall be functional and current as this is a critical function of this position.
• Handle multiple tasks simultaneously with frequent interruptions and communicate the status of ongoing tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing, and to keep records and prepare reports. Able to communicate to all levels of employees and differing levels of knowledge and experience. Facilitates interdepartmental communications between divisions.
• Instill a culture of cooperation, collaboration, and communication between responsible divisions and team units.
• Encourage and motivate employees to engage, progress, and improve their individual performance as well as the organizational effectiveness.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence and independent judgment within general policy, procedural and legal guidelines.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or Technology related field or a related discipline from a college or university accredited by a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Considerable experience in the field of information technology, including some supervisory experience; or any combination of education, training and experience that demonstrates the above listed knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Would consider an associate degree with exceptional leadership and related experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience of current Microsoft Windows System Administrator work experience is desired.
• Current certification in Microsoft methodologies (i.e., MCSA, MCSE, or other industry certifications) is highly desired.
• Experience with Microsoft SQL Server is desired.
• Expertise in Windows, VM Ware, SQL Server, Microsoft 365, and Active directory management, Security management and VoIP.
• Understanding and familiarity with Metering and Billing/ AMI software, processes, and principles.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Must possess and maintain a valid Mississippi Driver's License and acceptable MVR.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• Direct deposit and eligibility to work in the United States are required.
• Meet qualification/eligibility/background requirements for this position.
• A one-year probationary period may be required.
• Satisfactorily complete an employment verification and pre-employment drug screening.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:Work is performed both indoors and outdoors. The work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts that require normal safety precautions typical of office environments. Work requires frequent physical tasks such as sitting, walking over rough surfaces, bending, stooping, climbing, and lifting containers up to seventy-five pounds in weight.