Client Systems Administrator

PURPOSE OF THIS POSITION:

The Client Systems Administrator is responsible for developing, administering, distributing, and supporting centralized solutions for managing the desktop computing environment using enterprise tools, utilities, and applications. Responsibilities include developing solutions that support client endpoint management (security management, asset management, patch management), software packaging, desktop imaging, and desktop virtualization.

These centralized enterprise desktop management system tools, including Microsoft Intune, Active Directory, Group Policy, Policy Preferences (GPO, GPP), System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), virtualization, and scriptwriting to automate operational tasks.

When necessary, the Client Systems Administrator provides advanced desktop support for client systems, offers training, and serves as the primary technical escalation point for the Service Desk and Desktop Support staff. They may also function as a project lead for small to medium-sized projects or as a resource for large-sized projects.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

This position requires a wide range of experience and knowledge related to information technology management and processes.  This individual must have a good understanding of the work and challenges related to customer service, application development, desktop support, network management, and general technology and information processing standards.  This uniquely broad skill set is vital, as it enables the Client Systems Administrator to work effectively within all areas of the OIT organization. The Client Systems Administrator will work collaboratively with server administrators and desktop support staff to effectively create and distribute solutions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Please list in order of importance, with the first duty being the most important.

• Administer the central desktop management suite. This includes system configuration, user access privileges, system maintenance/upgrades, performance monitoring, software utilization monitoring, custom content (fields) for asset tracking, desktop agent management, ect.
• Manage Active Directory and Group Policies.
• Configure, administer, and monitor the anti-virus central management solution to ensure that client systems are up-to-date and to trigger pro-active action upon detection of suspected viruses.
• Client system patching. This includes Operating System patches as well as various application patches and agent updates. Patch management involves testing, deployment, and ongoing monitoring of patch implementations.
• Administration of the desktop imaging solution and process. Includes ongoing maintenance of the image library and associated system drivers, as well as the documenting of the imaging processes.
• Development of software packages through the central desktop management suite.
• Management of the software library for use by the Desktop and Service Desk teams.
• Administration of the software site license server.
• Administration of the lab configuration protection solution, either through GPO or other software.

MARGINAL DUTIES: 

• Evaluate service tickets for ongoing performance improvement opportunities and reduction of endpoint incidents.
• Install, configure and troubleshoot hardware, including desktops, laptops and peripheral equipment as needed.
• Recommend process improvements, technical enhancements, and projects to address operational issues and emerging end user needs.
• Create scripts to automate common operational tasks or in support of software packaging.
• Perform as the project lead for small to medium sized projects or as a resource for large sized projects.
• Analyze desktop software utilization and license compliance.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITIES: 

• Must possess excellent people skills with a strong customer support focus and a strong working knowledge of the type of work and the challenges faced by all areas of technological support. 
• Must have a strong software development methodology background, quality assurance experience, extremely strong organizational skills, strong data analysis skills (specifically working with relational databases), expert level desktop computing technical skills, and a strong understanding of basic networking methodologies and security standards and issues.
• Able to independently develop technical skills through online resources.
• The ability to quickly grasp and learn new technologies pertaining to software and hardware advances.
• The ability to effectively utilize web resources to research technology or solve problems.
• Ability to resolve problems effectively, efficiently, and independently.
• The ability to work effectively and cooperatively with a group to achieve a goal.
• The ability to work effectively in a structured environment utilizing established processes, while also possessing the skills to effectively articulate suggestions for improvements to those processes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills,
• Excellent organization and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to travel as needed to participate in professional meetings, conferences, and events.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously and effectively in a demanding environment.
• Ensure compliance with professional and technology standards, license and regulatory requirements, and Western New England university standards, polices, and procedures.
• Able to work after hours as necessary for general maintenance and support.

 ERGONOMIC REQUIREMENTS: 

• Ability to read computer screens and printed materials.
• Ability to effectively communicate via the telephone and in person.
• Ability to lift and carry 25 pounds.
• Ability to freely traverse campus.

HOURS:
 

Some night and weekend work will be required and scheduled flexibly based on needs. Position may be eligible for hybrid work.

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS:

In addition to the “knowledge, Skill and Abilities” listed above, the successful candidate must have:

• Earned bachelor’s degree in technical discipline from an accredited College or University, or equivalent education and experience.
• At least four years of experience working within various areas of information and technology support.
• Knowledge of infrastructure systems architecture, security, and administration.
• Strong server skills.
• Skill and at least two years of experience administering enterprise desktop management tools.
• Experience with Active Directory and GPO management.
• Expert level desktop hardware and software computing and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong knowledge of a variety of state-of-the-art software packages and operating systems used in higher education. (Windows, MAC, Linux).
• Script writing experience in support of desktop configuration/software installation automation.
• Strong knowledge of recent and current versions of Microsoft Office Software Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access);
• Virtual Desktop infrastructure development and troubleshooting skills.
• Detailed knowledge of best practices for imaging and application packaging.
• Experience providing analytical data using a relational database.
• Job history of progressively earning added responsibilities and duties.
• Maintain strict confidentiality with personnel and business data.

Western New England University is committed to enhancing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging by acknowledging and embracing diversity of thought, opinion, and approach with colleagues regardless of background, culture, and organizational level. WNE encourages diversity in our job applicants to ensure the best culture and work outcomes.