Windows System Administrator

Job Introduction

Serco has made significant contributions at EUMETSAT in Darmstadt, supporting a diverse range of meteorological satellite missions and projects. Serco provides essential engineering, technical, and management services, playing a crucial role in the operation and maintenance of satellite ground segments. Its expertise in satellite control, data processing, and system integration has earned the company accolades, including “Excellence in Service” awards from EUMETSAT. Serco’s dedicated efforts ensure the reliable dissemination of vital weather and climate data, underscoring its commitment to innovation and excellence in the field of meteorological satellite operations.

We are looking for a Windows System Administrator to provide operational and lifecycle management of the Windows Server infrastructure supporting mission-critical meteorological satellite systems. The successful candidate will ensure 24/7 system stability, security compliance, and performance optimisation.

Key Responsibilities

Routine Operations

• Monitor Windows Server systems and identify hardware, software, and performance issues.
• Perform initial investigations and act as the primary point of contact for Windows-related operational matters.
• Participate in daily mission operations coordination meetings and regular anomaly review boards.
• Maintain configuration baselines, system inventories, and configuration management documentation.
• Administer enterprise server platforms, including Cisco UCS, Dell PowerEdge, HPE ProLiant, and Lenovo systems.
• Monitor system health through the analysis of system logs and operational telemetry.

Preventive Maintenance

• Plan and execute hardware and software upgrades, ensuring compatibility and minimal operational impact.
• Install, configure, and optimise operating systems and software for performance.
• Administer infrastructure components, including server chassis and network switches.
• Develop and maintain PowerShell scripts and operational procedures to automate routine tasks.
• Create and maintain technical documentation for system upgrades and configuration changes.

Corrective Actions

• Ensure operational configurations can be restored following hardware or system failures.
• Define, maintain, and verify backup and recovery procedures.
• Liaise with external service providers for hardware and software maintenance activities.
• Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, storage, and performance issues.
• Provide stand-by and on-call support to ensure operational continuity.

Optimisation & Engineering

• Identify recurring operational tasks and implement automation solutions.
• Leverage AI-assisted tools to improve operational efficiency and knowledge management.
• Recommend system enhancements and operational improvements through re-engineering initiatives.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex system anomalies and service outages.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation and maintenance procedures.

Skills and Experience

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience.
• Expert-level experience in Windows Server administration, including installation, patching, hardening, and troubleshooting.
• Experience administering and securing Active Directory, DNS, and DHCP.
• Proficiency in PowerShell scripting and automation.
• Experience with backup and disaster recovery procedures.
• Knowledge of security hardening and Privileged Access Management (PAM).
• Experience with enterprise server platforms, including Cisco UCS, Dell, HPE ProLiant, and Lenovo systems.
• Knowledge of storage connectivity and integration.
• Good understanding of TCP/IP networking.
• Knowledge of ITIL service management principles.
• Experience working in 24/7 operational environments.
• Ability to produce technical documentation and work independently.
• Professional proficiency in written and spoken English.

Desirable

• Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator (AZ-800).
• Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator (SC-300).
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) and/or Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305).
• CompTIA Security+ certification.
• Experience administering Cisco UCS environments.
• Experience in the aerospace or satellite industry.

Package Description

• Relocation allowance (flight to Germany, airport transport, one month paid accommodation).
• Hybrid working model for flexibility. 
• 30% discount on the Deutschland ticket for easy travel.
• Subsidised Wellpass – access to 12,500+ fitness and wellness options across Germany.
• Pension and health schemes.
• Corporate Benefits discounts
• 30 days of holiday for balance and exploration.