Network Administrator

Job Summary

Secure and maintain the organisation’s computer systems’ network
Maintain a reliable, secure and efficient data communications network

Key Performance Areas

Plan and Set Up Network Infrastructure
Maintain High Availability Network Infrastructure
Conduct Research on Latest Networking Practices
Perform General Administrative Functions

Key Tasks (By KPA for clarity)

Plan and Set Up Network Infrastructure
Specify network requirements and design solutions
Implement, configure and maintain LAN
Implement, configure and maintain WAN
Assist System Administrators
Plan and report on network capacity within the company
Negotiate and provide reciprocal network support and access between the company and third party vendors

Maintain High Availability Network Infrastructure

Set up user accounts, permissions and passwords
Install and configure network equipment to update/fix hardware/software issues
Install and integrate new server hardware and applications
Support and administer third-party applications (Network and Firewall applications)
Maintain computer networks and systems including software, Virtual hosts, VPNs, routers and other physical hardware
Tune network performance
Check for and respond to network security and connectivity alerts and incidents
Monitor network performance (availability, utilization, throughput and latency) and test for weaknesses
Update virus protection software to keep data and communications protected
Diagnose and identify root causes of network and security issues.
Research and resolve network performance issues in a timely manner
Provide accurate solutions to problems escalated from the 1st line support team
Provide remote infrastructure support/troubleshooting within agreed SLAs
Monitor and respond to new capacity threshold alerts

Conduct Research on Latest Networking Practices

Identify and review appropriate software updates, patches and firmware releases
Research and make network recommendations on server system operations
Research and review networking best practices and applications

Perform General Administrative Functions

Define network policies and procedures
Communicate networking issues to other IT Teams, Supervisors and management
Resolve software and hardware configuration issues for users
Track system’s end of life and specify replacements when needed.
Document existing systems and formulate comprehensive plans for the implementation of new systems
Establish and maintain a good working relationship with customers
Undertake Extraneous-to-IT Activities

Other requirements

Undertake cross-functional tasks for, and provide assistance to, System Administrators
Liaise with third party providers in a professional manner.
Undertake UPS operational/functionality checks per prescribed checklist(s)
Check that OEM UPS suppliers’ maintenance regimes are completed per SLA
Process “first point of contact” calls for UPS and systems issues and/or failures
Retrieve camera footage for managers’/supervisors’ review
Monitor and maintain camera hardware and cabling
Occasional night-time driving and working

Physical activities

Must be able to carry heavy loads (minimum 20 Kg)
Working at heights and in confined spaces
Exposed to sharp and jagged finishes to infrastructure and equipment

When the job will be performed

Typically, during standard working hours (Monday to Friday 08:00 – 17:00)
Occasional after hours call outs (including weekends and public holidays)
Scheduled standby and call out shifts

Where the job will be performed

Predominantly Benoni based
When required data centres and other sites

Essential Qualifications (Have-to-Have)

Matric
A+ Certificate
N+ Certificate
Linux LPIC-1
OR
An equivalent certification at NQF Level 7 (e.g. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Aruba Certified Switching Associate (ACSA), Fortigate)

Desirable Qualifications (Nice-to-Have)

MCSE
MCIPT
Fortigate NSE 4

Essential Experience (Have-to-Have)

Proven experience in a network administrator role
Verifiable experience in the design and implementation of routing and switching in large-scale, multi-vendor networks (Aruba, Cisco).
Direct experience in Network Security (e.g. Sophos, Fortigate)
Applied experience with Aruba routing and switches
Practical experience with wireless networks
Relevant experience with firewalls, Internet VPNs remote implementation, troubleshooting, and problem resolution

Desirable Experience (Nice-to-Have)

Hands on experience in Windows server 2019-2016, hyper v, Designing and Implementing a Server
Practicable experience with Infrastructure, Linux Server, Microsoft Systems
Working experience with VMware

Knowledge and Skills

Solid familiarity with backup and recovery software and methodologies
Intense knowledge of internet protocols, services and standards.
Solid understanding of network automation, telemetry, and SDN (Software Defined Networking)
Knowledgeable in network security standards, best practices, and implementation of them to operating procedures and configurations.
Strong understanding of physical cabling
Practicable knowledge of best practices around management, control, and monitoring of server infrastructure
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
Excellent problem solving skills
Exceptional organising skills
Ability to diagnose and resolve product, hardware and performance issues independently
Ability to set up and configure server hardware
Strong scripting skills
Robust ability to configure and maintain networking stacks.

Attributes (Keep short and relevant – Max 5)

Attention to detail/accuracy.
Able to work in a team and independently.
Deadline conscious.
Calm under pressure.
Responsible and accountable.
Self-motivated.
Honest, Hardworking and Humble

Assets Controlled.

What level and value of ASSETS does this role control?
All Network Assets at Data Centres, Server Rooms and in transport under business insurance.