Virtual Server Administrator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Overview

We are seeking a skilled IT Manager to join our IT team in Austin, TX. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience managing Windows Server environments, expertise in Hyper-V virtualization, proficiency in database administration (specifically MS SQL Server), and the ability to perform basic networking administration. This role will be responsible for maintaining, securing, and optimizing our IT infrastructure, including servers, virtual environments, databases, and network components, to ensure high availability, performance, and reliability. The IT Manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams to support business operations and drive technological improvements. The IT Manager role will be hands-on while also managing a small team of help desk technicians and junior administrators.

Key Responsibilities

• Windows Server Administration:
  • Manage, configure, and maintain Windows Server environments (e.g., Windows Server 2019, 2022, 2025), including Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, and file services.
  • Perform regular system updates, patch management, and security hardening to ensure compliance with organizational and industry standards.
  • Monitor server performance, troubleshoot issues, and implement solutions to minimize downtime.
  • Manage user accounts, permissions, and access controls within a domain environment.
  • Establish and maintain regularly scheduled data purge activities in compliance with data retention policies.
• Hyper-V Virtualization:
  • Deploy, configure, and manage virtual machines (VMs) using Microsoft Hyper-V in production and non-production environments.
  • Optimize virtual infrastructure for performance, scalability, and resource efficiency.
  • Implement and maintain high-availability configurations, including failover clustering and VM replication.
  • Perform backup and disaster recovery operations and testing for virtualized environments using tools like Windows Server Backup or third-party solutions (e.g., Veeam).
• Database Management:
  • Administer and maintain databases (e.g., Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL), including installation, configuration, and performance tuning.
  • Perform routine database maintenance tasks, such as backups, restores, indexing, and query optimization.
  • Ensure database security by managing user access, roles, and encryption.
  • Monitor database performance and troubleshoot issues related to connectivity, queries, or resource utilization.
• Basic Networking Administration:
  • Configure and maintain network services, including DNS, DHCP, and basic firewall rules on Windows Server.
  • Monitor network performance and troubleshoot connectivity issues using tools like ping, tracert, or Wireshark.
  • Manage VLANs, IP addressing, and basic routing configurations in collaboration with network administrators.
  • Assist in maintaining network security by implementing access controls, monitoring for unauthorized access, and applying security patches.
  • Be able to setup and troubleshoot VPN tunnels with our clients.
• System Monitoring and Maintenance:
  • Monitor system and network health, performance, and capacity using tools like Windows Performance Monitor, SCOM, or third-party solutions (e.g., SolarWinds).
  • Proactively identify and resolve system and network bottlenecks, vulnerabilities, and performance issues.
  • Maintain documentation for system and network configurations, processes, and procedures.
• Security and Compliance:
  • Implement and enforce security best practices for servers, virtual environments, databases, and network services, including firewall configurations, antivirus management, and compliance with standards like NIST, HIPAA, or SOC.
  • Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments across systems and networks.
  • Respond to security incidents and implement remediation plans.
• Collaboration and Support:
  • Provide Tier 2/3 support for IT-related issues, including server, virtualization, database, and network problems, escalating to vendors or senior staff as needed.
  • Collaborate with network administrators, developers, and other IT staff to support application deployments and infrastructure projects.
  • Assist in planning and executing system upgrades, migrations, and technology refresh cycles.

Qualifications

• Experience:
  • 3-5 years of experience as a Systems Administrator, SQL Server Administrator, Network Systems Administrator or similar role, with a focus on Windows Server environments.
  • Proven expertise in managing Microsoft Hyper-V virtualization, including VM creation, configuration, and clustering.
  • Hands-on experience with database administration (e.g., Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL), including backups, performance tuning, and security.
  • Experience with basic networking administration, including DNS, DHCP, VLANs, and network troubleshooting with Cisco network appliances.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in Windows Server administration (2016, 2019, 2022), including Active Directory, Group Policy, and PowerShell scripting.
  • Strong knowledge of Hyper-V, including virtual networking, storage, and high-availability configurations.
  • Experience with database management, including SQL query writing, backup/restore operations, and performance optimization.
  • Strong familiarity with networking protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP) and tools (e.g., Wireshark, NetStat).
  • Experience with backup and disaster recovery tools (e.g., Veeam, Windows Server Backup).
  • Knowledge of monitoring tools and security practices (e.g., firewalls, antivirus, patch management).
• Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in an Information Technology related field (or equivalent work experience).
  • Relevant certifications (preferred but not required):
    • Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate
    • Microsoft Certified: SQL Server Database Administrator
    • CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA (for networking skills)
    • CompTIA Server+ or VMware Certified Professional (VCP)
• Soft Skills:
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to manage junior team members and provide annual performance evaluations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., Azure, AWS) and hybrid environments.
• Familiarity with scripting languages (e.g., PowerShell, Bash) for automation.
• Knowledge of Linux server administration is a bonus.
• Experience with ITIL processes or project management methodologies.

Work Environment

• Full-time position with occasional on-call responsibilities for critical system or network issues.
• Hybrid or on-site work, depending on organizational needs.
• Collaborative team environment with opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive health benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and certification reimbursement.
• Flexible work arrangements and a supportive team culture.