L3 Senior System Administrator

Key Responsibilities :

Server Administration & Troubleshooting :

- Manage Microsoft servers including Hyper-V, Active Directory, DHCP, DNS, SQL, etc.

- Perform new deployments, migrations, and troubleshooting of production servers with minimal downtime.

- Troubleshoot Windows performance issues (server crashes, no boot, memory leaks, registry issues, sluggish/unresponsive systems).

- Analyze and configure memory dumps, user mode & kernel mode processes.

Escalation & Incident Management :

- Act as the designated escalation point for L2/L1 engineers.

- Resolve L3 incidents independently and lead complex cross-technology issue resolutions.

- Provide leadership in crisis situations and ensure timely closure of escalations.

Change, Patch & Configuration Management :

- Plan, review, and implement change records with proper risk/impact analysis.

- Apply security patches and monitor environments for compliance.

- Maintain CMDB accuracy and contribute to process improvements.

Performance & Optimization :

- Identify root causes and perform trend analysis for recurring problems.

- Lead proactive efforts to prevent future incidents and optimize infrastructure performance.

Cloud & Virtualization :

- Manage and troubleshoot VMware (ESXi, vCenter, vSAN, SRM, vMSC) and Microsoft Hyper-V.

- Support Windows performance on Azure & AWS platforms, including IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS.

- Design and implement solutions on Microsoft Azure with a focus on performance, security, and compliance.

Automation & Scripting :

- Develop automation using PowerShell, Python, Ansible, Puppet, etc.

- Contribute to CI/CD pipelines and automation initiatives for efficiency.

Collaboration & Leadership :

- Mentor and guide L1/L2 engineers, preparing them for L3 responsibilities.

- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, vendors, and clients to design solutions and resolve complex issues.

- Ensure secure handling of sensitive data, access credentials, and configurations.

Technical Skills :

- Microsoft Technologies: Windows Server 2008/2012/2016/2019, AD Group Policies, DNS, DHCP, SQL Server.

- Virtualization: VMware (vSphere, vSAN, SRM), Microsoft Hyper-V, System Center.

- Cloud Platforms: Azure (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), AWS (Windows performance troubleshooting).

- Performance Troubleshooting: Registry, BIOS, CPU, Memory, Sysinternals tools, hidden processes, kernel/user mode debugging.

- Networking: Strong understanding of TCP/IP, load balancing, firewall basics.

- Storage & Backup: HPE/NetApp/Pure, Commvault, antivirus, compliance and patch management.

- Automation: PowerShell, Python, Ansible, Puppet; CI/CD pipeline knowledge.

- Security & Compliance: OS hardening, vulnerability assessment, audit readiness.

Qualifications :

Education :

- BE/B.

- Tech/M.

- Tech/MSc/MCA or equivalent.

Certifications :

- Microsoft certifications (latest track).

- ITIL Certified (mandatory).

- Azure Administrator Associate or Azure Solutions Architect Expert (preferred).

- VMware VCP/VCAP certifications (a plus).

Experience :

- 7 to 9 years of experience as a System Administrator in the Microsoft Wintel domain.

- Strong scripting and automation experience with proven ability to lead escalations.

- Hands-on experience supporting enterprise-class Data Centers and hybrid cloud environments.

- Prior experience in customer-facing L3 engineering roles with leadership responsibilities.

Business Skills :

- Excellent communication (written & verbal) and client interaction skills.

- Strong decision-making, problem-solving, and time/resource management abilities.

- Ability to collaborate with global, cross-functional teams in high-pressure environments.

- Strong sense of accountability, confidentiality, and customer-first mindset.

- Experience mentoring and motivating support teams across L1/L2 levels