Manufacturing Systems Administrator

Job Title: IT Systems Administrator - Ashland, VA

Job Description

The IT Systems Administrator will support a manufacturing facility in Ashland, VA by maintaining, configuring, and ensuring the reliable operation of computer systems, networks, and production-related applications. This role focuses on supporting and improving in-house systems, including ERP tools used on the production floor, while developing scripts and tools that streamline daily operations for both office and manufacturing environments. The position requires a hands-on professional with strong systems administration, SQL, and ASP experience, along with the ability to troubleshoot hardware, software, and network issues independently.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot computer systems, including hardware, software, and related infrastructure across office and production environments.
• Develop and maintain scripts and tools to support daily operations in the office and on the production floor, improving efficiency and system performance.
• Administer and support SQL databases using Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio, including troubleshooting and performance tuning as needed.
• Support, upgrade, fix, debug, and develop both the front end and back end of ERP systems that integrate with the production and manufacturing floor.
• Work with in-house or company-developed ERP systems to ensure reliability, usability, and integration with production processes.
• Ensure network security by managing firewalls and applying an understanding of firewall configurations and network security protocols.
• Monitor systems and networks for potential security threats and performance issues, and take proactive steps to resolve them.
• Troubleshoot compatibility issues for tools and applications originally built for Internet Explorer and adapt them for use in newer browsers.
• Provide general IT support, including resolving issues with printers, Wi‑Fi, and employee hardware and software questions.
• Troubleshoot and maintain Windows operating systems from Windows 7 to current versions.
• Support and troubleshoot dated or legacy hardware and software to keep critical systems operational.
• Assist with network and server maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure stable and reliable operations.
• Document system configurations, procedures, and policies in a clear and organized manner for future reference and knowledge sharing.
• Collaborate with production and office staff to understand operational needs and translate them into technical solutions.
• Manage and support Office 365 services in an office environment, including user support and basic administration tasks.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience as a Systems Administrator or in a similar IT support role.
• Experience providing general IT support, including resolving printer issues, assisting employees with technical questions, and troubleshooting Wi‑Fi and connectivity problems.
• Strong knowledge of Windows and Linux operating systems and their administration.
• Hands-on experience with SQL databases and Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio.
• Proficiency with ASP for developing, maintaining, and troubleshooting web-based applications.
• Experience working with ERP systems, including support and administration.
• Experience upgrading, fixing, debugging, and developing both front-end and back-end components of ERP systems integrated with manufacturing or production environments.
• Understanding of firewall configurations and network security protocols.
• Excellent troubleshooting skills with the ability to analyze and resolve complex technical issues independently.
• Ability to troubleshoot compatibility issues for tools and applications originally built for Internet Explorer and adapt them to newer browsers.
• Experience with Windows operating systems from Windows 7 through current versions.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field is preferred; an associate degree, relevant certifications, or a combination of education and experience is also considered.
• Experience in IT support within a manufacturing environment is highly preferred.
• Experience working with in-house or company-developed ERP systems is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with Python for scripting and automation is beneficial.
• Experience with web technologies such as Web Forms and web design tools is an advantage.
• Experience troubleshooting dated or legacy hardware and software.
• Experience with network and server maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Experience managing Office 365 in an office environment.
• Familiarity with label printing technologies such as ZPL is a plus.

Work Environment

This role is based onsite at a manufacturing facility in Ashland, VA, supporting both office staff and production floor operations. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with potential for limited hybrid flexibility when needed. The environment combines typical office settings with time spent on the production floor, working closely with operations teams and production equipment integrated with ERP and other IT systems. The position involves working with Windows and Linux systems, SQL Server, ASP-based applications, ERP platforms, network infrastructure, and Office 365. The work requires comfort with both modern and legacy hardware and software in a hands-on, fast-paced, and collaborative setting.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ashland, VA.

The pay range for this position is $75000.00 - $75000.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Ashland,VA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 18, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $75,000