Systems Administrator

Cornell College seeks a highly motivated and experienced Systems Administrator to join the Information Technology department. In this critical role, you will be a key member of our IT infrastructure team, responsible for ensuring the security, reliability, and performance of technology across campus. This position requires a previous role in systems administration, with a focus on automation, security, cloud technologies, and emerging IT trends.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administer, maintain, and secure servers, virtual machines, and network
  infrastructure.
• Assist with regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and DR planning.
• Manage and optimize cloud services (AWS, Azure, etc.) and backups
• Develop and implement automation scripts (PowerShell, Python, SQL) to
  streamline tasks, reduce manual effort, and improve efficiency.
• Manage and optimize software deployments with Microsoft Configuration
  Manager or Intune.
• Assist faculty and researchers with the selection, implementation, and support of
  research software and hardware.
• Work closely with the Network Engineer, Desktop Support team, and other IT
  staff to ensure seamless technology operations.
• Research and evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., AI/ML in IT, edge computing)
• Contribute to the development and implementation of IT strategic plans.
• Monitor system performance and proactively identify and resolve issues.
• Provide technical support and guidance to faculty, staff, and students
• Other duties as assigned

About Cornell College 

Cornell College is a selective liberal arts college distinguished by our Ingenuity curriculum that builds on the strengths of our One Course At A Time schedule. This combination encourages the qualities of being thoughtful, original, and inventive, using the strengths of a liberal arts education to apply ideas to solve problems and meet challenges through hands-on experience in learning. Academic immersion, Division III NCAA athletic teams, and unparalleled flexibility attract an ambitious student body from across the U.S. and worldwide. We are located in Mount Vernon, Iowa, an urban fringe community located in the heart of the ICR Iowa region.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (associates
  required, bachelor’s preferred)
• Minimum of 3 years experience as a systems administrator
• Proficiency in scripting languages (PowerShell, Python) is essential.
• Strong understanding of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure) and their security implications.
• Prior management of backup and recovery along with DR planning/execution
• Experience with virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V)
• Solid foundation in networking concepts (TCP/IP, routing, switching).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• ITIL certification or knowledge of frameworks and best practices.
• Knowledge of security concepts; certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security , CISSP) a plus
• Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) systems or scientific software
• Knowledge of Jira, Jamf, and Microsoft Configuration Manager desired

Working Conditions 

Work may be performed while seated in an office, server room, network closet, and classroom.  Requires walking outdoors in a variety of weather conditions to get from building to building.  This position works in-person on campus. 

Cornell College complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and/or receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact human_resources@cornellcollege.edu. 

Cornell College offers a fantastic benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, HSA & FSA accounts, a TIAA 403(b) retirement account, and tuition remission and exchange for employees and dependents. We also offer life insurance, disability insurance, travel insurance, and accident insurance.  And, all full-time staff begin with a 4-week vacation accrual along with 14.5 paid holidays per year.  

Application Process

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of at least three professional references. 

Cornell is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. Cornell complies with Iowa's Smoke-free Air Act. Cornell utilizes E-Verify and requires the satisfactory completion of a background check.