Our Client in the Durban area is looking for an IT Operations Specialist who will  be responsible for the efficient and reliable operation of the organization's IT infrastructure and services by managing and maintaining network systems, providing  comprehensive IT support, administering servers, and contributing to IT projects. This includes but not limited to:

Responsibilities:

Networking

· Design, implement, and maintain local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and wireless networks.

· Configure and troubleshoot network devices including routers, switches, firewalls, and access points.

· Monitor network performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions to ensure optimal connectivity and security.

· Manage IP addressing schemes, DNS, DHCP, and other network services.

· Implement and maintain network security measures, including VPNs, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and access control lists (ACLs).

· Perform regular network backups and disaster recovery planning.

IT Support Desk (Tier 1 & 2)

· Serve as the primary point of contact for all IT-related inquiries and issues from end-users.

· Log, prioritize, and resolve IT support tickets efficiently and effectively using an IT Service. Manage (ITSM) platforms.

· Provide timely and professional technical assistance via phone, email, and in-person.

· Troubleshoot and resolve hardware and software issues for desktops, laptops, printers, mobile devices, and peripherals.

· Assist users with common software applications (e.g., Microsoft 365 suite, business-specific applications).

Escalate complex issues to appropriate internal or external teams when necessary, ensuring proper handover and follow-up.

· Develop and maintain IT support documentation, knowledge base articles, and user guides.

IT Support Desk - Technical Support (Tier 2 & 3)

· Diagnose and resolve more complex technical issues that cannot be handled by Tier 1 support.

· Perform advanced troubleshooting of operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS), applications, and system configurations.

· Maintain and manage user accounts, permissions, and security groups in Active Directory or similar identity management systems.

· Administer and support VoIP phone systems, video conferencing solutions, and collaboration tools.

· Conduct hardware and software installations, upgrades, and patches.

· Provide technical guidance and training to end-users on IT best practices and system usage.

· Collaborate with vendors and service providers to resolve external technical issues.

Server Management

· Install, configure, and maintain physical and virtual servers (e.g., Windows Server, Linux distributions, VMware ESXi, Hyper-V).

· Monitor server performance, disk space, and resource utilization, implementing proactive measures to prevent downtime.

· Perform regular server backups and recovery procedures, ensuring data integrity and availability.

· Manage server roles and features, including Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, file and print services.

· Implement and enforce server security policies, including patch management, antivirus, and vulnerability remediation.

· Plan and execute server upgrades, migrations, and decommissioning processes.

· Troubleshoot server-related issues, including operating system errors, application failures, and hardware malfunctions.

Project Management

· Participate in and lead small to medium-sized IT projects from initiation to completion.

· Assist in defining project scope, objectives, and deliverables in collaboration with stakeholders.

· Develop and maintain project plans, timelines, and resource allocation.

· Coordinate with internal teams and external vendors to ensure project milestones are met.

· Monitor project progress, identify potential risks, and implement mitigation strategies.

Communicate project status updates to stakeholders and management.

· Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

· Contribute to the continuous improvement of IT processes and infrastructure.