CLOSING DATE:

Open Until Filled
The Illinois State Board of Education is seeking an IT System Administrator to manage, configure, monitor, and support the Agency’s servers, network infrastructure, and end-user systems. This role will be responsible for ensuring system reliability, security, and performance across multiple platforms including Windows, Linux, and cloud environments. Reporting to infrastructure management, this position will oversee system updates, backups, incident response, and troubleshooting, while also collaborating with the Software Solutions team to support application deployments and user access management. The ideal candidate is a proactive, technically skilled professional with strong problem-solving abilities and excellent communication skills. All applicants must be willing to occasionally work after hours during scheduled maintenance windows. Chicago applicants must be willing to occasionally travel to the Springfield office.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or a closely related field with at least five years of progressively responsible experience in system administration, infrastructure support, or related technical roles. Candidates with an Associate’s degree in a related field may also qualify with at least seven years of progressively responsible experience in system administration, infrastructure support, or related technical roles. (COPY OF TRANSCRIPTS REQUIRED AT TIME OF APPLICATION)
• At least five years of hands-on experience in system administration, infrastructure support, or IT operations.
• Experience managing and supporting virtualized server environments (vSphere/VCF).
• Experience with Windows server operating systems including installation, upgrading, and troubleshooting.
• In-depth knowledge of Microsoft operating systems and virtualization technology.
• Demonstrated success in troubleshooting complex technical issues across Windows server environments.
• Familiarity with Active Directory, DNS, virtualization, and NTFS permissions.
• Advanced knowledge of Windows server (2019-2025) operating systems.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.
• Flexibility and ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
• Positive, self-motivated individual who can complete tasks independently.
• Ability to be a team player.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Microsoft certification (MCSE) or equivalent certification in relevant programs.
• Cloud platform experience such as Azure.
• Ability to manage server virtualization technologies like vSphere/VCF.
• A solid understanding of LAN/WAN networking.
• Knowledge of Microsoft IIS administration and configuration.Knowledge of Microsoft 365 apps for enterprise administration, Entra/Active Directory, and PowerShell scripting.

• Manages, configures, monitors, and supports virtual servers, network infrastructure, and end-user systems across Windows, Linux, and cloud platforms.
• Ensures system reliability, security, and performance.
• Troubleshoots and resolves technical issues across the environment.
• Collaborates with infrastructure and software solutions teams to address technical debt through in-place os upgrades, new deployments, and system migrations.
• Serves as administrator for existing and new backend systems.
• Supports application deployments and integrations.
• Administers and supports core Microsoft and VMware technologies.
• Creates and maintains system documentation, including baseline configurations and standard operating procedures.
• Provides training and guidance to technical staff and end users.
• Works closely with cross-functional teams to align system operation with agency goals.
• Mentors/cross trains with team members on existing and new technologies.
• Interacts with customers, vendors, and staff at a technical level, as required.
• Continuously evaluates emerging software solutions, hardware specifications, and infrastructure trends.
• Recommends forward-thinking strategies to improve system efficiency, performance, and modernization.
• Performs other duties as assigned.