Systems Administrator

About the role

We are seeking System Administrators to join a specialist IT team supporting a federal government client in Ottawa. The team owns and operates a complex Data Centre and distributed IT infrastructure used for the acquisition, production, management, and distribution of geospatial data and products in support of federal operations. Working on-site at the client's Ottawa facility, successful candidates will help sustain advanced IT systems spanning servers, storage, virtualization, networking, and GIS platforms. Two positions are available, and candidates will be placed at a level commensurate with their experience.

Key responsibilities

• Support Data Centre operations including server virtualization, storage systems administration, and network configuration — encompassing installation, configuration, optimization, maintenance, testing, and troubleshooting

• Install, configure, and maintain operating systems including Windows Desktop/Server OS, Active Directory, Group Policy Objects (GPOs), and Unix/Linux environments

• Manage Microsoft SCCM/SCOM for enterprise software deployment, Windows updates, and security patching

• Administer Microsoft Exchange servers, Virus Scan Enterprise software, and network security appliances including routers and switches

• Install, configure, and maintain GIS, image processing, and database platforms including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Server, Portal for ArcGIS, MS Server, and MS SQL Server

• Perform data replication, backups, and failover procedures to the Disaster Recovery site

• Establish virtual server, virtual desktop, and cloud hardware architectures and produce corresponding technical build documentation

• Develop and execute system testing plans and produce test results reports

• Analyze system performance and recommend improvements

• Troubleshoot and resolve end-user technical issues; prepare and deliver presentations and demonstrations as required

• Other duties as assigned by the Technical Authority

Required qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in system administration within an enterprise or Data Centre environment; senior candidates with 7+ years are encouraged to apply

• Experience with Windows Server OS, Active Directory, GPOs, and Unix/Linux administration

• Experience with server virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V) and enterprise storage systems

• Experience with Microsoft SCCM/SCOM, Microsoft Exchange, and enterprise endpoint security tools

• Experience configuring and supporting network security appliances, routers, and switches

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues

• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Government of Canada security clearance; a Visit Clearance Request (VCR) is required prior to site access

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with GIS platforms and database environments, particularly ArcGIS Server, ArcGIS Pro, and MS SQL Server

• Experience working in a government, defence, or similarly regulated IT environment

• Familiarity with Controlled Goods requirements or classified information handling procedures

• Experience producing technical architecture documentation, system build guides, or testing plans

• Relevant certifications (e.g., Microsoft Certified, CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or Esri Technical Certification)

Job Type: Fixed term contract

Contract length: 720 days

Pay: $50,000.00-$100,000.00 per year

Experience:

• System administration: 3 years (required)

Licence/Certification:

• Government of Canada Security Clearance (required)

Work Location: In person