Entry Level Linux Network Administrator Jobs in Illinois

The System Administrator will serve as an integral member of the infrastructure management and support team, with a primary focus on Windows servers, backup solutions, Microsoft 365 (O365), and VMware environments. In this role, the individual will collaborate with team members to design, deploy, oversee, and support technology infrastructure across a 75 site organization. Responsibilities include installing and configuring hardware and software, deploying and maintaining application infrastructure, and providing comprehensive support for both cloud-based and on-premises systems to ensure reliability, security, and optimal performance across the enterprise.

This position is based at our Corporate Headquarters in Wood Dale, IL, with a planned relocation to the Merchandise Mart (Chicago) in early 2027.

What you will be responsible for:

• Builds, installs, and manages physical and virtual server environments. 
• Knowledge of the Microsoft Server platform and its components including Active Directory, certificate services, IIS, and other related technologies.
• Remediates vulnerabilities in the environment.
• Install and configure applications.
• Ensure data availability by monitoring backups and testing recovery plans.
• Utilize system monitoring software to build dashboards, reports, and alerts. 
• Consistently communicate with customers and team members
• Review and resolve server and networking issues. 
• Automate redundant tasks and improve processes. 
• Escalate issues when necessary. 
• Collaborate with other IT professionals on intradepartmental projects. 
• Perform other duties as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  A System Administrator should have knowledge of VMware, Windows Server, and SAN technologies for performing maintenance and upgrading the systems, including patches, service packs, security configurations, hot fixes and disaster recovery. They must be capable of acquiring more knowledge by continuing education or through other avenues. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

What you need to be successful in this role:

• Solid Experience with configuration, installation, and administration of VMWare.
• In-depth working experience in Windows Server 2016-2025.
• Experience with data storage and SAN technologies.
• PowerShell scripting.
• Motivated, self-starting individual with strong quantitative and problem-solving skills. 
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with others to achieve improved business processes. 
• Strong IT customer service skills for supporting end user application issues. 
• Strong focus on creativity, attention to detail, and productivity. 
• Capable and motivated to pursue technical issues to resolution. 

• Motivation and vision for applying advanced automation techniques to manual systems. 

• Travel to other AAR locations when needed.

Additional Positives for the Position:

• Holding credentials that demonstrates ability to perform a specific level of tasks related to Windows server and VMware.
• Able to review and make decisions regarding the software and hardware required to meet the organization's needs. 
• Linux experience 
• Strong IT customer service skills for supporting end user application issues. 
• Strong focus on creativity, attention to detail, and productivity. 
• Capable and motivated to pursue technical issues to resolution. 
• Motivation and vision for applying advance automation techniques to manual systems. 

The rewards of your career at AAR go far beyond just your salary: 

• Competitive salary and bonus package
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Generous paid time off program

• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

Physical Demands/Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about the facility.
• The environmental characteristic for this position is an office setting.
• Candidates should be able to adapt to a traditional business environment.
• AAR provides accommodation in accordance with applicable laws through all stages of the hiring process. If you require accommodation for any part of the application and/or hiring process, please advise Human Resources.

Compensation:
The anticipated salary range for this position is $90,000 to $120,000 annually. This range reflects the base salary for candidates who meet the requirements of the role, including experience, education, and location. [In addition to base pay, this role is eligible for a 10% bonus.] AAR offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/dental/vision/life/and AD&D insurance, 401(k) savings plan with employer match, paid time off and holiday pay, as well as opportunities for professional development and growth.

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