Systems Support Analyst

Job Code: SSA/PNT

Number of Positions Open: 1

Reports To: Systems Manager

Location: Kenya

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Summary

Our client comprises of three operating businesses in Kenya and one in Zimbabwe.

The business of the organization is information technology, with particular emphasis on electronic (e)-business solutions in the banking sector.

They operate with a simple goal of delivering added value to customers through solutions by which technology may enhance efficiencies.

Whilst its primary skills are technology- based, the success of their company is built upon recognizing the value of relationships and thus management and people skills are considered critical.

The Systems Support specialist will be expected to work well in a team-oriented environment.

S/he will work closely with the Systems Manager and lead staff team in making decisions about technical and systems development within our client’s organization.

As the key technical resource for the organization, the incumbent will exercise a high degree of independence and autonomy in setting the direction for technical developments and overseeing implementation of projects.

This position has broad latitude in planning and scheduling work, and may deploy staff and equipment to achieve Unit goals and objectives.

The Systems Manager is primarily interested in the results of the positions’ actions: smooth and consistent operation of our client’s systems, the timely implementation of new systems to meet clients’ needs, the quality and quantity of work performed by incumbent, effective project management, and thorough documentation of technical projects.

Primary Responsibilities

(50%) Technical Support

Manage all projects in the areas of system administration, software development and network security and provide direct technical support in at least one of these areas.

1. Software Implementation, Support and Documentation

a. Collaboration with internal staff, clients and IT management to ensure that the current suite of Internal Systems is meeting the needs of clients and technical support staff.

The Internal Systems include:

• Microsoft Windows 2003 Server
• Microsoft SQL Server
• Microsoft Exchange
• Microsoft Active Directory
• Microsoft IIS
• Microsoft CRM
• Microsoft ISA Server
• Siemens ConCenter Call Center
• Siemens HiPath PABX Unified Messaging
• Internally developed user applications
• Company Intranet and Internet applications
• Microsoft Office

b. Ensure that configuration documents are drafted for all new software applications and oversee documentation of implementation consistently throughout the process.

c. Ensure prompt and professional responses to bug reports.

2. Cross Skill into Unix-based Services and Support

a. The incumbent will have the opportunity to cross-skill into support of our client’s Unix based production systems including:

• Sun Solaris
• RedHat Linux
• Oracle DBMS
• Informix DBMS
• Oasis IST/Switch
• CTL Suite of Card Management applications

3. Cross Skill Into ATM Application Support

a. With a strong Microsoft background, the incumbent will have the opportunity to cross-skill into support of our client’s Wincor-Nixdorf ATMs including:

• Wincor Protopas
• Wincor Procash NDC
• Wincor HTML Web Extensions
• SST Agent

4. Network Security and Development

• Implement Microsoft ISA for firewall, policy and intrusion detection
• Implement SurfControl
• Work with the Security Consultant to enforce Appropriate Use Policies
• Ensure secure operation of all servers and services through the use of security and encryption tools such as SSH, SSL, PGP, GnuPG, and through extensive staff training and documentation
• Maintain network management software
• Investigate network upgrade options
• Work with our client’s technical staff to develop and maintain tools for compiling network usage statistics
• Support the DHCP, DNS, Proxy infrastructures
• Support the Cisco range of routers
• Support the Sarian range of GPRS/Edge routers and concentrators

5. System Monitoring

a. Implement the Performance of IT ProIT and ProXI range of system, application and network monitoring

b. Develop reports to ensure compliance with SLA guidelines

c. Investigate, specify and project manage integration between the Monitoring System and Microsoft CRM

d. Train technical and operations staff in the use of the Monitoring System

e. Manage ongoing operation of the Monitoring System by our client’s technical and operations staff

(25%) Supervision and Training

1. Meet regularly with lead staff and the Systems Manager to assess progress on projects
2. Conduct annual performance evaluations for all direct reports
3. Develop appropriate internal training for internal systems

(20%) Project Planning and Analysis

1. Develop proposals as necessary for upgrading existing systems and developing new systems
2. Ensure consistent documentation of all technical projects
3. Stay abreast of emerging technologies to plan for the future
4. Prepare estimated budgets for technical projects (time and materials)
5. Develop strategic plans for our client’s long-term development. Participate in Lead staff retreats
6. Serve as a technical resource to technical teams
7. Monitor project expenditures (time and materials) to meet budget constraints

(5%) Professional Development

1. Meet regularly with our client’s Technical staff to share ideas, experience and resources
2. Consult with the Manager of Residential Computing regarding supervisory and management skill development
3. Keep abreast of computing technology

Qualifications and Requirements

• BS/BA Degree in Computer Science or equivalent experience preferred. Alternatively;

1. Cisco Certified Network Associate
2. Cisco Certified Network Professional
3. Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer

• 5+ years of hands-on experience with server applications in a Microsoft networked environment. Experience of Cisco, Solaris, Oracle or Informix is an advantage
• The incumbent should demonstrate high level of expertise in the following areas:

1. Windows 2000/2003 Server
2. Active Directory management
3. Security management, including Group Policy Objects
4. Administrative scripting (highly preferred)
5. Project management and documentation skills
6. High level of initiative and dedication
7. Outstanding customer service and interaction skills, as well as excellent verbal and written communication skills
8. Demonstrated ability to be a team player and willingness to lend a hand with any project

How to Apply

Interested candidates holding the necessary requirements, good performance and / or references are encouraged to apply with detailed CV’s, inclusive of names and contacts of 3 referees, current telephone number and email address by mailing them to recruiter@personnelresource.com.

Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

“Personnel Resource is an equal opportunity employer”