Data Centre Administrator

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Data Centre Administrator
Location: Lusaka
Country: Zambia
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to empower lives and build resilient nations. The organization is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all personnel are empowered to contribute to its mission. UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where it operates, fostering inclusion to ensure that all voices are heard and represented. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, and all selected candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

Job Overview:
The Data Centre Administrator is a crucial role within the UNCTAD's data center, which supports the organization's IT infrastructure. The primary objective of this position is to ensure the continuous and efficient operation of the data center by managing servers, licenses, and coordinating with service providers. The administrator will be responsible for performing routine maintenance tasks and ensuring that all systems are functioning optimally. This role requires a blend of technical expertise and soft skills, as the administrator will need to troubleshoot issues, implement security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security measures, and maintain documentation of the data center's configuration and processes. The position is vital for maintaining the integrity and availability of data, as well as ensuring compliance with security protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Data Centre Administrator will be responsible for a variety of tasks including:

• Server Administration: Installing, configuring, and maintaining both physical and virtual servers, particularly using VMware. Monitoring server performance to ensure optimal operation and implementing necessary security measures while performing regular updates.
• Network Management: Managing network devices such as switches, routers, and firewalls (specifically Fortinet), ensuring network availability and reliability, troubleshooting network issues, and optimizing performance.
• Storage Management: Overseeing storage solutions and managing data backup and recovery processes to ensure data integrity and availability.
• Security: Implementing and maintaining security protocols to protect data and systems, monitoring for security incidents, and responding appropriately.
• Maintenance and Support: Performing routine maintenance and updates on all data center equipment, providing technical support, and resolving issues promptly.
• Vendor Management: Liaising with service providers for equipment maintenance and software licensing, managing contracts, and ensuring compliance with service agreements.
• Documentation: Maintaining comprehensive documentation of the data center's configuration, processes, and procedures, and preparing regular reports on data center performance and issues.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Data Centre Administrator position should possess a strong set of technical skills and soft skills. Technical skills include proficiency in managing virtual environments using VMware, strong knowledge of Linux operating systems, experience with network security and firewall management (particularly with Fortinet products), and familiarity with backup and disaster recovery solutions. Soft skills should include strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, excellent communication and teamwork skills, and the ability to work independently while managing multiple tasks efficiently.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the foundational knowledge required to perform the duties of the Data Centre Administrator effectively.

Experience:
A minimum of 3 years of experience in data centre administration or a similar role is required. Candidates should have proven experience with VMware, Linux, network management, and security practices, which are critical for the successful execution of the responsibilities associated with this position.

Languages:
While the job posting does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is typically expected in international organizations like UNDP. Additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the regions in which UNDP operates.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time, and while the job posting does not specify the contract duration, candidates should be aware that UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. The organization may also retain applications for other similar positions at the same grade level. It is important to note that UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. Furthermore, UNDP does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.