Senior Systems Administrator, Servers & Storage at Langara College

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Systems Administrator, Servers & Storage
Company: Langara College
Location: Main Campus, Building A, Vancouver, Canada
Job Type: Temporary (Fixed Term)
Category: Server Administration
Date Posted: 2025-02-10
Experience Level: 5-10 years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Technical Leadership: Provide senior-level technical expertise in infrastructure solutions and project management.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with various IT teams and external consultants to deliver business-centric infrastructure solutions.
Mentorship: Coach and mentor junior IT members to build a high-performing team.
Industry Best Practices: Ensure service provisioning and maintenance align with College goals, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a high level of technical proficiency and experience in infrastructure management, making it suitable for senior-level server administrators with a strong background in project management and team leadership.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Infrastructure Management: Evaluate, install, and maintain infrastructure systems, including data and telecommunication networks, business applications, cloud integrations, hosted, and cloud environments.
Third-Level Technical Support: Provide advanced technical support to end-users, internal IT groups, and external vendors.
Project Management: Plan, coordinate, and execute IT projects and initiatives, ensuring they meet business requirements and deadlines.
Policy Development: Participate in the planning and implementation of policies and procedures to ensure consistent service provisioning and maintenance.
Security and Compliance: Design, implement, and maintain security systems to protect infrastructure and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role involves a wide range of technical responsibilities, requiring a broad skill set and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Two-year diploma in computer systems technology, computing studies, or equivalent technology diploma.

Experience:

Over six years of recent related experience in systems/network administration (on-premise, hybrid, and cloud solutions) and security system design.
Two years of experience providing third-tier advanced level support in an organization with established ITIL practice and modern IT Service Management practice.

Required Skills:

Expert knowledge of server/storage technologies (e.g., Microsoft on-premise and cloud Administrator certification or Role-based Certification, VMWare, Linux, Citrix, etc.)
Expert knowledge of network administration and security systems design and administration (e.g., Juniper Network, Palo Alto Network, Citrix Load Balancer, Cisco Wireless, etc.)
Knowledge and experience in integrating on-premise systems/infrastructure with cloud systems/infrastructure and deploying cloud infrastructure.
Knowledge and experience in designing, planning, and deploying high availability/fault-tolerant infrastructure and systems for business continuity and disaster recovery planning.
Working knowledge of computer programming, with training and experience in Java or C++; experience in scripting languages such as PowerShell, Python, and Unix shell scripts.

Preferred Skills:

IT project management and ITIL certifications (e.g., PMI’s CAPM).
Experience as the subject matter expert implementing various IT enterprise-class projects utilizing project management principles, techniques, and methods.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates with a strong background in infrastructure management, project management, and team leadership are highly sought after for this role. Relevant certifications and experience in enterprise-class project management will be a significant advantage.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Detailed documentation of infrastructure projects, including network diagrams, server configurations, and security measures.
Case studies demonstrating problem-solving, performance optimization, and user experience improvements.
Examples of successful project management, including project charters, stakeholder communication plans, and project closure reports.

Technical Documentation:

Comprehensive technical documentation, including system architecture, configuration management, and change management processes.
Security assessments and penetration testing reports.
Disaster recovery and business continuity planning documents.

📝 Enhancement Note: As this role involves a wide range of technical responsibilities, candidates should provide a diverse portfolio that demonstrates their expertise in infrastructure management, project management, and team leadership.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $45.73 - $52.09 CAD per hour

Benefits:

Extensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
Hybrid-work program for eligible positions
Generous vacation package plus paid time off during college winter closure (1 week in December)
Employer-paid defined benefit pension plan
Potential eligibility for educational, training, and developmental programs
Access to on-site daycare (subject to availability)
Tuition waivers for courses at Langara College (subject to space availability)
Course/program tuition reimbursements
Wellness classes and campus engagement events

Working Hours: 8:30am - 5:00pm Monday to Friday

📝 Enhancement Note: Langara College offers a competitive benefits package that reflects its commitment to overall health, financial security, and work-life balance. The salary range provided is based on the information available and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Langara College is a public post-secondary institution focused on delivering high-quality education and community services.

Company Size: Langara College has approximately 1,700 full-time employees and 2,000 part-time employees, making it a medium-sized organization in the post-secondary education sector.

Founded: 1965

Team Structure:

The IT Infrastructure team consists of various roles, including IT Infrastructure Manager, Infrastructure Lead, Senior Systems Administrators, Systems Administrators, and IT Support Specialists.
The team works collaboratively with other IT teams, such as Application Development, IT Support, and IT Security, to deliver comprehensive IT services.

Development Methodology:

Langara College follows ITIL best practices for IT service management, ensuring consistent and high-quality IT services.
The IT Infrastructure team employs Agile project management methodologies, focusing on iterative development, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.

Company Website: https://langara.ca/

📝 Enhancement Note: Langara College values collegiality, innovation, and integrity, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment. The IT Infrastructure team plays a crucial role in supporting the College's mission by delivering reliable, secure, and efficient IT infrastructure services.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Senior Systems Administrator, Infrastructure - This role requires a high level of technical proficiency and experience in infrastructure management, making it suitable for senior-level server administrators with a strong background in project management and team leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Systems Administrator reports to the IT Infrastructure Manager and is coordinated by the Infrastructure Lead to execute projects and IT initiatives. This position provides coaching and mentorship to junior IT members and works collegially with cross-functional groups and external consultants.

Technical Impact: This role has a significant impact on Langara College's IT infrastructure, ensuring the availability, performance, and security of critical systems and services. The Senior Systems Administrator plays a crucial role in planning, implementing, and maintaining infrastructure solutions that support the College's strategic objectives and business continuity initiatives.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Growth: Enhance expertise in emerging technologies, such as cloud infrastructure, containerization, and microservices.
Leadership Development: Develop leadership skills through mentoring, coaching, and team management opportunities.
Architecture Decision-Making: Gain experience in architecture decision-making, contributing to the College's long-term IT strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers numerous growth opportunities for senior-level server administrators looking to advance their careers in infrastructure management, project management, and technical leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Main Campus, Building A - Langara College's main campus is located in Vancouver, British Columbia, offering a modern and collaborative work environment.

Office Location(s): Main Campus, Building A, 100 W 49th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Y 2Z6, Canada

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Workspace: The IT Infrastructure team works in a collaborative, open-concept office space, fostering communication and knowledge sharing.
Development Tools: Langara College provides its IT team with access to industry-standard tools, such as virtualization platforms, cloud management platforms, and network management tools.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: The IT Infrastructure team works closely with other IT teams and departments, such as Application Development, IT Support, and IT Security, to deliver comprehensive IT services.

Work Schedule: 8:30am - 5:00pm Monday to Friday, with a one-week college winter closure in December.

📝 Enhancement Note: Langara College's main campus offers a modern and collaborative work environment, with easy access to public transportation and nearby amenities. The College values work-life balance and provides a flexible work schedule, including a one-week winter closure.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Technical Preparation: Review the job description, focusing on required skills and experience. Familiarize yourself with Langara College's IT infrastructure, including server and network technologies, cloud integrations, and security systems.
Application Screening: Langara College's recruitment team will review your application and resume, focusing on relevant experience and qualifications.
Phone or Video Screening: A brief phone or video call to discuss your application, assess your communication skills, and answer any questions you may have about the role.
Technical Interview: A comprehensive technical interview focusing on your infrastructure management experience, project management skills, and technical problem-solving abilities. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio, case studies, and technical challenges you've faced in previous roles.
Final Evaluation: A final evaluation based on your technical interview performance, cultural fit, and alignment with Langara College's values and mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Portfolio Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, highlighting your role, responsibilities, and achievements. Include relevant documentation, such as network diagrams, server configurations, and security measures.
Case Studies: Develop case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving, performance optimization, and user experience improvement efforts. Focus on the results and impact of your work.
Technical Documentation: Include comprehensive technical documentation, such as system architecture, configuration management, and change management processes. Highlight your attention to detail and commitment to documentation best practices.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Technical Assessment: Familiarize yourself with Langara College's IT infrastructure and prepare for a technical assessment focusing on your infrastructure management, project management, and team leadership skills.
Problem-Solving Scenarios: Practice problem-solving scenarios related to infrastructure management, network administration, and security systems design. Focus on your ability to analyze complex situations, develop effective solutions, and communicate your approach clearly and concisely.
Project Management Scenarios: Prepare for project management scenarios, demonstrating your ability to plan, coordinate, and execute IT projects and initiatives. Focus on your experience with project management methodologies, stakeholder communication, and risk management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Langara College's technical interview process is designed to assess your technical proficiency, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit. By following the tips and preparation strategies outlined above, you'll be well-equipped to succeed in the interview process and secure the Senior Systems Administrator, Infrastructure role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Systems Administrator, Servers & Storage position at Langara College:

Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience in infrastructure management, project management, and team leadership. Include specific examples of your technical accomplishments, problem-solving skills, and leadership initiatives.
Portfolio Preparation: Prepare a comprehensive portfolio showcasing your infrastructure management experience, project management skills, and technical expertise. Include relevant documentation, case studies, and technical documentation to demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to best practices.
Application Submission: Submit your application through the Langara College Careers portal, following the instructions provided on the job posting.
Technical Interview Preparation: Review the job description, familiarize yourself with Langara College's IT infrastructure, and prepare for the technical interview process. Practice problem-solving scenarios, project management scenarios, and portfolio presentation strategies to ensure you're well-prepared for the interview.
Company Research: Research Langara College's mission, values, and culture to ensure you're a strong fit for the organization. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview process, demonstrating your interest in the role and the College's goals.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web technology industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Langara College before making application decisions.

Senior Systems Administrator, Servers & Storage