Junior Systems Administrator

About Ascend

Ascend is a network of high-performing public charter schools serving students across Brooklyn. Our mission is to ensure that all students—regardless of background—have access to an education that empowers them to unlock their full potential, achieve academic excellence, and pursue a future of boundless opportunity. We cultivate rigorous learning environments where students develop critical thinking skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

At Ascend, educational equity is a driving force. We are committed to closing the achievement gap by delivering high-quality instruction, fostering a culture of high expectations, and equipping every student with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in college and beyond. Through this unwavering commitment, we prepare students not only to succeed academically but to seize every opportunity that lies ahead.

About the Role

As a member of Ascend's technology team, the systems administrator will play a critical role supporting and administering the organization’s applications and infrastructure. Travel between our Brooklyn schools and occasional weekend and/or evening work is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from a competitive college or university
• 3 years of work experience in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment
• A proven track record and high degree of proficiency in at least four of the technical areas below:
• Switching/Routing/Firewalls/Load Balancing
• Wireless networking (Autonomous, Lightweight, and/or Cloud Managed infrastructures)
• HBPX/VoIP technologies and implementations and well as video conferencing systems
• Microsoft Server Technologies (Windows Server 2016/2019, Hyper-V, File & print services)
• Microsoft Domain Management (AD DS, ADFS 3.0, DNS, DHCP, Azure AD Connect)
• Microsoft Client Management (Group Policy, Desktop Imaging)
• DR/Resiliency planning (clustering, backups, email archiving/journaling)
• Supporting iOS/Android/Windows devices
• Industry certifications are a plus (Microsoft, Cisco, PMI, HP, Google, Amazon, etc.)
• Demonstrated ability to diagnose issues, identify root causes, and design effective solutions
• Experience with a student information systems
• Experience managing policies and procedures to set best practices and deliver high-quality support

Skills and Traits

A successful systems administrator will demonstrate:

• Excellent customer service skills and the ability to prioritize and communicate effectively with non-technical users
• Comfort with performing hands-on work and assisting with strategic projects
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
• Flexibility and the ability to work autonomously as well as take direction as needed
• Strong results-oriented troubleshooting and commitment to excellence
• Self-sufficiency with the ability to ask questions and request help when needed
• Excellent task- and time-management skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to think critically, quickly,

Responsibilities

The systems administrator will:

• Execute projects designed by the managing director of technology and supporting in the deployment, configuration, and management of Ascend’s physical and virtual server infrastructures as well as core systems;
• Work with the MD of technology and team members to develop a scalable strategy for Ascend’s infrastructure;
• Manage and maintain Ascend’s voice and data networks including LAN/WAN and HPBX VoIP systems;
• Create and maintain documentation around all technologies and technology policies and procedures;
• Cater to various sites’ audio-visual needs, including testing, set-up, and maintenance;
• Install, maintain, and troubleshoot all hardware and software issues;
• Assist in the implementation of new technologies;
• Assist and manage day-to-day requests using Zendesk, our support request system;
• Communicate proactively with the school staff to research and develop best-practice processes;
• Administer and support core applications, including Infinite Campus, Citrix ShareFile, IlluminateEd, Office 2019/365, ActivInspire, Google Workspace (including Google Classroom), Nearpod, GoGuardian, and Zendesk;
• Provide responsive and courteous support to resolve all technology issues;
• Provide general application and infrastructure support; and
• Provide timely and service-oriented support to resolve issues.

Staff and Reporting Relationships

The systems administrator reports to Ascend’s managing director of technology.

Compensation

Initial salary offers for this position start at $66,500. Salaries are determined using an equitable compensation scale that accounts for years of experience and levels of attained education.

Location & Work Arrangement

• Based in our Brooklyn, NY office
• Hybrid work schedule requiring in-office presence at least three days per week
• Occasional travel between schools to be expected

In-person work expectations include network office time, stakeholder meetings, school visits, special events, and other role-specific responsibilities as determined by management.

Ascend offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
• Generous paid time off
• Ongoing coaching, professional development, and leadership training