Senior IT Systems Administrator – Windows & VMware

Senior IT Systems Administrator – Windows & VMware We are seeking a dynamic Senior IT Systems Administrator with expertise in Windows and VMware technologies who can excel in both project leadership and operational excellence. This role requires a strategic thinker who can drive complex infrastructure projects while maintaining operational stability across multiple datacenters, demonstrating strong organizational skills and effective communication throughout all initiatives. Key Responsibilities Windows Infrastructure Management • Design, implement, and maintain Windows Server environments (2019, 2022, 2025) • Oversee patch management, security hardening, and Gold Standard version compliance initiatives • Implement automation solutions using PowerShell and other scripting technologies • Monitor system performance and optimize resource utilization VMware Infrastructure Management • Administer VMware vSphere v8+ environments including VxRail, vCenter, ESXi, and vSAN • Perform virtual machine lifecycle management, capacity planning, and optimization • Execute cluster upgrades and maintenance activities with minimal downtime Project Leadership & Management • Lead end-to-end infrastructure projects including Windows Server upgrades, VMware upgrades, and system migrations across multiple datacenters • Develop comprehensive project schedules, timelines, and resource allocation plans • Provide regular status updates to stakeholders and executive leadership • Coordinate cross-functional teams and manage project dependencies • Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and budget Team Leadership & Task Management • Assign and prioritize tasks across team members based on skills and project requirements • Mentor junior administrators and provide technical guidance • Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing within the team • Act as escalation point for complex Windows and VMware technical issues Operational Excellence • Maintain 24/7 system availability through proactive monitoring and maintenance • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and documentation • Participate in on-call rotation for after-hours critical system support • Ensure compliance with security policies, change management, and regulatory requirements • Drive continuous improvement initiatives and best practices adoption Required Qualifications Technical Skills • 5+ years of hands-on experience with Windows Server administration • 5+ years of VMware vSphere administration experience • Proficiency in PowerShell scripting and automation • Experience with backup and disaster recovery solutions • Knowledge of storage technologies (SAN, NAS, local storage) • Familiarity with monitoring tools and performance optimization • Demonstrated experience following formal change management practices and procedures Leadership & Communication • Proven track record of leading technical projects from inception to completion • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Experience in task delegation and team coordination • Ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders Organizational Skills • Exceptional project management and organizational abilities • Experience with project management methodologies (Agile, ITIL preferred) • Proficiency in project management tools (Jira, Change Gear) • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities • Detail-oriented with ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously Preferred Qualifications • Bachelor's degree Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field • Microsoft certifications (MCSA, MCSE) or equivalent experience • VMware certifications (VCP, VCAP) or equivalent experience • Experience in regulated industries with compliance requirements • Familiarity with NERC CIP regulations and associated compliance obligations Leadership Competencies • Strategic Thinking: Ability to align technical initiatives with business objectives • Team Development: Proven ability to mentor and develop technical talent • Change Management: Experience leading organizational and technical change initiatives • Risk Management: Capability to identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks • Stakeholder Management: Strong relationship-building skills across all organizational levels