Assistant Manager Networks and Systems

The Assistant Manager – Networks and Systems plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation, security, and reliability of the organization's network and IT infrastructure. This position involves managing enterprise-level systems to guarantee continuous network availability, supporting business continuity, and contributing to the implementation of new technologies. As a key technical resource, the Assistant Manager supports IT operational excellence and aligns technology initiatives with the overall business strategy.

Key Responsibilities

- Assist in the planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of network systems, security infrastructure, servers, and storage solutions.
- Configure and manage firewalls, routers, wireless controllers, access points, switches (both managed and unmanaged), and data center equipment.
- Monitor network and server performance, including VMware ESXi and Linux-based systems, to ensure optimal availability.
- Analyze network traffic to detect and mitigate potential security threats proactively.
- Install and maintain Windows Active Directory, DNS, Web Server, DHCP, and implement server group policies.
- Oversee daily data center operations and system monitoring activities.
- Support the enforcement of security policies, procedures, and standards, responding to incidents and conducting investigations as needed.
- Provide technical support to end-users, resolving IT system and network connectivity issues efficiently.
- Manage deployment and migration of cloud services such as Office 365 and video conferencing platforms including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Cisco Webex.
- Participate in IT project planning and execution, ensuring adherence to IT policies and standards.
- Stay updated with emerging security technologies and industry best practices.
- Test and evaluate new hardware and software solutions to enhance infrastructure capabilities.
- Manage vendor and service provider relationships, coordinating issue resolution and new deployments.
- Maintain accurate documentation of systems, procedures, and configurations.
- Participate in on-call support rotations as required.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful IT project delivery.
- Assist in developing and implementing IT strategies and roadmaps.
- Plan and perform regular network maintenance activities on daily, monthly, and annual schedules.
- Create and troubleshoot site-to-site and remote access VPNs.
- Upgrade network device firmware and IOS versions regularly.
- Coordinate with internal and external audit teams for quarterly and annual IT audits.
- Liaise with ISPs for tower deployment, maintenance, security, installations, and upgrades.
- Review monthly billing, service packages, and support agreements with service providers.
- Coordinate vendor activities for WAN link deployments at head office, COCO sites, and oil depots.
- Mentor and train junior IT staff to enhance team capabilities and knowledge.

Required Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
- 4 to 6 years of experience in network and system administration, including 1 to 2 years in a supervisory or lead role.
- Hands-on experience with firewalls (Cisco, Fortinet), virtualization technologies, backup solutions, and monitoring tools such as Zabbix, PRTG, or SolarWinds.
- Strong understanding of ITIL processes, cybersecurity best practices, and change management principles.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- Relevant certifications such as CCNA, CCNP, MCSA, MCSE, RHCSA, RHCE, Fortinet NSE, or foundational knowledge in Azure/AWS are highly desirable.
- This is a full-time, in-person position offering a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications.

This role offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment where technical expertise and leadership contribute directly to the organization’s success and technological advancement.