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 (ref:hirist.tech)