Specialist - IT Security and System Administration

About the Role:
This position is focused on administering and supporting key infrastructure and security technologies such as Oracle/Microsoft/Open-Source Databases, Cloud Services (Oracle, Microsoft IaaS/PaaS), Servers, and Storage Services. The role aligns with the organization’s policies, processes, and standard operating procedures fostering a secure and efficient IT environment.

Responsibilities:

Plan, Design & Implement

• Plan, design, and implement server and database management infrastructure based on the organization's operating system.
• Analyze new IT technologies and trends through conducting proof of concepts and preparing reports for management to facilitate informed decisions.
• Liaise with Storage, Networking, Desktop, and Application support teams as required to ensure system functionality.

Administration & Operational Support

• Provide technical support for Oracle/Microsoft/Open-Source databases and Cloud Services (IaaS/PaaS), ensuring smooth operation by managing data space requirements.
• Address operational support faults and requests per approved service level agreements, maintain system updates, and resolve bugs.
• Offer 2nd-level technical support to the helpdesk and other technical areas.
• Document system configurations, developments, procedures, and standards.
• Collaborate within and contribute to the development of the ITIL best practice framework for service delivery.
• Escalate system deficiencies and hardware issues to suppliers and supervisors while coordinating with external vendors as necessary.
• Ensure systems are secure through regular patch management, access reviews, and adherence to zero trust principles.
• Continuously monitor IT systems for security breaches and vulnerabilities using appropriate tools and software.
• Adapt security protocols and configurations based on emerging threats to protect sensitive data.
• Conduct regular audits of IT systems for compliance with security policies, performing vulnerability assessments and recommending remediation strategies.
• Assist in configuring operating systems and security applications to meet organizational security standards.
• Engage in patch management and coordinate the acquisition, testing, and application of updates to prevent vulnerabilities.
• Organize and maintain security logs, accurately documenting security events for future reference.
• Manage incident reports related to security breaches, ensuring timely investigations and resolutions.
• Provide initial troubleshooting support for security incidents and escalate complex cases as needed.
• Collaborate with the IT team to deliver security awareness training programs and onboard new employees on IT security protocols.
• Participate in the development and implementation of incident response plans and conduct readiness exercises.
• Stay informed on IT security trends, vulnerabilities, and best practices through professional development opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with established IT security policies and contribute to the development of IT security strategies and practices.
• Aid the Manager of Database & System Administration in managing system integrity and security.

Project Management:

• Support project managers with planning and designing infrastructure requirements.
• Collaborate on project scope, timelines, and resource allocation, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Assist in feasibility studies and provide technical input during project planning.
• Work with vendors and internal teams for the delivery and installation of hardware and software.
• Ensure thorough testing of configuration changes for compliance with security and performance standards.
• Provide regular updates on project tasks and challenges to project managers and stakeholders.
• Maintain detailed documentation of project-related configurations and system changes.
• Provide ongoing support post-project completion by monitoring new configurations and addressing arising issues.

Knowledge:

• Expertise in Microsoft/Oracle Databases, Cloud Services (IaaS/PaaS), as well as IBM AIX/Microsoft Windows/Linux Servers.
• Experience with high-performance stretched clusters and virtualization technologies like Power and VMware.
• Strong understanding of zero-trust security model, patch management, vulnerability scanning, and disaster recovery principles.
• Proficient in diagnosing and resolving system performance issues utilizing diagnostic tools.
• Ability to document configurations and adhere to ITIL best practices in service management.
• Experience in supporting infrastructure projects, focusing on resource allocation and vendor coordination.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity principles, including zero trust and in-depth defense strategies.

Competencies:

• Technical Proficiency: Strong skills in Microsoft SQL/Oracle DB and Oracle Cloud Services (IaaS/PaaS).
• System Optimization: Expertise in troubleshooting and performance tuning to ensure high availability.
• Project Collaboration: Effective support in project teams, contributing to the management of scope, timelines, and resources.
• Documentation & Best Practices: Skilled in maintaining accurate system documentation aligning with ITIL practices.

Qualifications:
Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or equivalent industry experience.
• IT professional certifications from vendors such as IBM, VMware, Veeam, Microsoft, etc. are required.

Experience:

• 3-5 years of experience with installation, configuration, and management of databases and cloud services from Oracle and Microsoft infrastructure technologies.

Professional Certifications:

• Relevant certifications such as Oracle OCI OCP (IaaS/DBCS/PaaS), Microsoft SQL Server certifications (MCSE/MCSA) are required.
• Additional credentials in ITIL, Linux, or Cloud platforms (Azure/AWS) are advantageous.