Systems Administrator – Principal

Salary Range: $68,778-$110,732   

Purpose of Classification:

The purpose of this classification is to independently administer the County's largest, most complex and critical information systems; plan and implement departmental and enterprise solutions for County-wide and multi-agency systems as assigned; and provide lead guidance and direction to less experienced Systems Administrators.   

Essential Functions: 

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Leads and coordinates daily work activities of assigned co-workers; confers with supervisor to obtain direction regarding work assignments and priorities; organizes tasks in order to complete assigned work; monitors status of work in progress and inspects completed work; confers with co-workers, assists with complex/problem situations, and provides technical expertise; assists with training and instructing co-workers regarding operational procedures and proper use of equipment; and assists with supervision of co-workers by reporting employee problems and providing input on disciplinary action and employee performance evaluations.

Defines requirements, plans, researches, and evaluates capability of technology systems; and coordinates, configures, installs and maintains information technology systems hardware, software, backup and restore devices, databases, security solutions and peripheral devices; coordinates information and resources to insure proper and timely installation and maintenance activities; verifies availability and proper operation of products for installation; schedules installations; converts old system data to new system; tests installed products per agency standards; completes installations and conversions; and provides initial training to customers on new products as needed.

Supports network system access; defines, recommends, implements and maintains enterprise server and work station components; defines security access levels; sets up accounts for new employees and closes accounts when no longer necessary; increases account capacity when existing blocks are insufficient for work requirements; establishes port connections for new equipment to network as needed;  resolves network problems per established guidelines; limits user access to specific areas according to user needs; and documents procedures and changes on all systems.

Performs network administration; configures, operates and maintains programs, databases and/or infrastructure related systems; manages and configures servers to maintain updates; backs up and monitors event logs; analyzes event logs; identifies potential problems; monitors the performance and security of programs, databases and/or infrastructure systems; checks and maintains connectivity; upgrades servers; adds/deletes computers to/from network; manages user and email accounts and passwords; monitors network settings, network software, and drivers; and maintains databases and a variety of server software.

Provides technical support and training to system users; troubleshoots problems with programs, databases and/or infrastructure related systems; resolves problems; escalates problem to vendors or other personnel as appropriate; and ensures continual operations of customers’ network applications; and utilizes diagnostic tools and other resources as appropriate.

Supports development and implementation of new technology; researches and evaluates computer systems, software, and technology issues; develops technology solutions; advises departments on technology business strategies; evaluates departmental information systems and communications requests; and works with vendors to implement new, and upgrade existing, technology. 

Maintains an awareness of new applications, technologies, technical methods, trends, and advances in the profession; reviews professional publications, technical manuals, and websites to increase knowledge of network operations; and attends conferences, workshops, and training sessions as appropriate.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Information Technology, or related field required; five years of progressively responsible experience in systems administration in a large-scale information technology environment; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Specific License or Certification Required:  Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.