System Administrator

City of Kenai • Kenai, AK

8d • Hybrid

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Information Technology (IT) Manager, the System Administrator supports the City’s information systems by installing, maintaining, securing, and troubleshooting computer infrastructure, servers, and related hardware and software. This position plays a key role in daily operations of the City’s IT environment, ensuring system availability, data integrity, reliable connectivity, and timely technical support for end users. Responsibilities include monitoring network devices, assisting with server administration, supporting cybersecurity measures, resolving workstation issues, and providing technical guidance to users. Work requires a high degree of technical proficiency, sound judgment, and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in a related field, or at least three (3) years of experience supporting computer networks, systems or IT infrastructure in a multi-user environment, or an any combination of education and experience that provide the applicant with the knowledge, skills and ability to perform the essential job functions.
• Must possess or obtain a valid, unrestricted Alaska driver’s license within thirty (30) days of employment or prior to operating a vehicle for work purposes.
• Applicants will be required to submit a Division of Motor Vehicles record upon request.
• Must be available to work varying schedules, including weekends, holidays, and shift extensions into the late evening hours in order to respond to after-hours emergencies and alter the work schedule to minimize the impact on users and the general public.
• The employee must be able to respond to emergency call-outs when available.
• Must pass a criminal background check and other background investigations to meet security requirements for using networks and protected databases.
• The applicant (and employee after hire) must be eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance for the Alaska Public Safety Information Network (APSIN).
• Must have professional work experience with enterprise-wide email systems, virtualization, server administration, and IP telephony.

Nice To Haves

• A bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Strong written and oral communication skills are highly desirable.
• Work experience showing success or potential for success in dealing with people.
• Industry certifications such as CompTia A+, Net+, Linux+
• Strong Linux skills
• Specific experience with Microsoft Exchange Server, VMWare, and Cisco IOS preferred.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and maintain computer hardware and systems as directed by the IT Manager.
• Assist with basic server administration tasks, including updates, account changes and routine monitoring.
• Perform regular system maintenance and updates, including firmware, patches, and software upgrades.
• Support cybersecurity practices such as monitoring alerts, enforcing security policies, managing user access, and assisting with incident response.
• Maintain documentation, including diagrams, configurations, asset inventories, and change logs.
• Support backup and recovery operations, including verifying backup integrity and assisting with data restoration.
• Provide technical assistance to City employees; respond to service requests and assist with workstation, printer, and peripheral troubleshooting when escalated from Desktop Support.
• Assist in the configuration and deployment of new workstations, laptops, mobile devices, and peripheral equipment.
• Assist with VoIP systems, including user setups, troubleshooting, and coordination with vendors as needed.
• Participate in planning and implementing system improvements, upgrades and projects.
• Research and recommend hardware, software, and technology solutions in coordination with the IT Manager.
• Maintain system logs, security alerts, and network monitoring tools; escalate critical issues promptly.
• Support disaster recovery operations and participate in testing continuity plans.
• Operates personal or City-owned vehicles to travel to remote work sites, City facilities, and other off-site locations as necessary to install, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and support information technology systems, network infrastructure, hardware, software, and related equipment.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with contractors, vendors, agencies, consultants, City employees, and the general public.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information that is non-public and comply with privacy laws and regulations.
• Maintain regular, reliable, and predictable attendance at work.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• The City of Kenai is an equal opportunity employer. Employment is based on qualifications free of personal and political considerations, with equal opportunity for all with no discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, changes in marital status, pregnancy, parenthood, genetic information or any other basis prohibited by law.
• Upon initial appointment to a position, the employee will receive the minimum compensation for the position except in cases when unusual difficulty in filling the vacancy is experienced or when the appointee is exceptionally qualified.
• When an employee is exceptionally qualified, the City Manager may approve compensation at a level above the minimum but not more than the maximum range.
• An exceptionally qualified applicant will have IT certifications (CompTia+, Net or Linux+) or a bachelor's degree in a related field; or five years or more of experience supporting computer networks, systems or IT infrastructure in a multi-use environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree