JOB TITLE: System Administrator - Network and Security
FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Non-exempt, hourly employee.
WORK DAYS: 261 days (including paid holidays and paid vacation time).
STANDARD HOURS PER DAY: 8 hours per day (not including a 60-minute unpaid duty-free meal break).
WORK YEAR: The work year for the System Administrator - Network and Security begins on the first weekday in July, and ends 12 months later on the last weekday in June.
SALARY SCHEDULE & BENEFITS: The System Administrator - Network and Security is a salaried, non-certified employee with the salary starting at $78,996, and is eligible for benefits on the “Support Staff” benefits schedule.
REPORTS TO: The System Administrator - Network and Security reports to the Assistant Director of Technology for Infrastructure and Support.
SUPERVISES: The System Administrator - Network and Security does not supervise any other employee(s).
GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES:
The System Administrator is responsible for the comprehensive management and security of the district's technology infrastructure, serving as the primary steward of network operations and cybersecurity across all educational facilities. This role encompasses daily monitoring and maintenance of network hardware, servers, and security systems while ensuring optimal performance for educational technology applications. The position requires installing, configuring, and troubleshooting network equipment including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points, and supporting district camera systems through troubleshooting and vendor coordination, while simultaneously implementing and maintaining robust cybersecurity policies and procedures to protect sensitive student and district data in compliance with FERPA regulations. The administrator manages user accounts and access controls through Google and Active Directory, responds to security incidents, conducts vulnerability assessments, and provides technical support to staff and students. Additionally, this role involves coordinating with vendors for system upgrades and patches, documenting network configurations and security procedures, participating in disaster recovery planning, and staying current with emerging threats and technologies relevant to K-12 education environments.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/ KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Network & Infrastructure Management
Install, configure, and maintain network hardware including routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points
Monitor network performance and optimize bandwidth utilization across multiple school sites
Manage and maintain Windows and Linux server environments
Oversee virtualization platforms and cloud services integration
Implement and maintain backup and disaster recovery solutions
Cybersecurity & Data Protection
Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive security policies and procedures
Monitor security systems and respond to potential threats or incidents
Manage user access controls, authentication systems, and permissions
Conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability testing
Ensure FERPA compliance and student data protection protocols
Coordinate with vendors on security patches and updates
User Support & System Maintenance
Provide technical support for network connectivity and system access issues
Manage user accounts, email systems, and directory services (Active Directory)
Troubleshoot hardware and software problems across the network
Document system configurations, procedures, and troubleshooting guides
Coordinate with educational software vendors and service providers
Sustainability & Innovation
Implement energy-efficient technology solutions to reduce environmental impact
Participate in equipment lifecycle management and responsible e-waste disposal
Research and evaluate emerging technologies that align with our sustainability goals
Support digital transformation initiatives that reduce paper consumption
NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
While the following tasks are necessary for the work of the unit, they are not an essential part of the purpose of this position and may also be performed by other unit members.
Performs related duties as directed.
ENTRY-LEVEL REQUIREMENTS:
EDUCATION/TRAINING/EXPERIENCE:
Holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or related field
3-5 years of hands-on experience in network administration and cyber security
Experience in education or public sector environments preferred
TECHNICAL SKILLS:
Proficiency with network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN)
Experience with firewall configuration and network security tools
Knowledge of Windows Server environments and Active Directory and Google administration
Familiarity with virtualization technologies (VMware, Hyper-V, Scale)
Understanding of cybersecurity frameworks and best practices
Experience with help desk ticketing systems and documentation tools
Experience managing IP-based security camera systems (Avigilon, Verkada)
3. CERTIFICATIONS &/OR LICENSES PREFERRED:
Valid Indiana Driver’s License
CompTIA Network+, Security+, or equivalent
Microsoft Certified: Windows Server or Azure certifications
Cisco CCNA or similar networking certification
4. OTHER: Ability to perform the essential functions, meet the performance aptitudes, and fulfill the physical/sensory/environmental requirements of the job (with or without reasonable accommodations) is required.
TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
Proficient in troubleshooting, diagnosing, and resolving network/security issues
Ability to manage multiple priorities independently
Knowledge of project management and change-control processes
Familiarity with educational technology platforms and student information systems (SIS)
COMMUNICATION & COLLABORATION
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to explain complex technical issues to non-technical users (staff, teachers, administrators)
Strong customer service orientation with responsiveness to staff and student needs
Team-oriented; able to collaborate with cross-functional groups
PERFORMANCE APTITUDES:
Data Utilization: Ability to analyze, categorize, and interpret technical and operational data for decision-making
Human Interaction: Provides guidance and interpretation of procedures to staff and administrators
Verbal Aptitude: Skilled in interpreting and conveying technical/reference information
Mathematical Aptitude: Ability to perform basic calculations involving percentages, decimals, fractions, and data interpretation
Functional Reasoning: Ability to follow complex instructions, exercise professional judgment, and adapt processes to new situations
Situational Reasoning: Ability to evaluate information logically and exercise creativity in solving network and security challenges
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT:
Responsibilities may occasionally require evening or weekend work with limited advanced notice.
Tasks may include lifting or transporting equipment (12–20 pounds) and occasional use of a box truck.
No regular travel is required.
No budgetary responsibilities.
PHYSICAL & SENSORY REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and lift moderate-weight objects
Visual perception and oral communication required for system monitoring and user support
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
Work is primarily performed in standard office/school environments, without exposure to significant hazards (such as dust, fumes, or extreme temperatures).