What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate Systems Analyst position at Rare?
Position Overview
About Rare
Rare is a global conservation organization working across Africa, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean to protect the natural resources people depend on. Our Technology team plays a direct role in enabling that mission, supporting a distributed workforce and building the systems, tools, and capabilities that keep Rare operating effectively at scale.
The Associate System Analyst is a key member of that team. This role supports internal users, systems, and cloud-based infrastructure across a globally distributed environment. The position combines end-user support responsibilities with day-to-day administration of the Microsoft 365 core services. It requires strong technical aptitude, a service-oriented mindset, and the ability to analyze, troubleshoot, and improve the technology systems and processes that keep our people productive. Support is delivered in person, via email, and through remote tools.
Key Responsibilities:
End-User Support & Help Desk
- Provide technical support via in-person, email, and remote tools
- Manage and resolve Help Desk tickets; escalate issues as needed
- Troubleshoot hardware, software, and peripheral issues
- Track and follow up on outstanding issues to ensure timely resolution
- Develop user documentation and deliver basic training
Systems & Infrastructure Administration
- Support and administration of Microsoft 365, including Exchange Online, MS Teams and SharePoint
- Provision and manage Entra ID (Azure AD) accounts and access
- Administer Microsoft Endpoint Manager and NinjaOne RMM for device deployment, updates, and monitoring
- Maintain network, Wi-Fi, conferencing systems, printers, and related infrastructure
- Support Softphone system administration, including adds and changes
- Monitor and respond to security threats using Microsoft 365 and KnowBe4
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of IT systems, processes, and policies
Asset Management, Projects & Coordination
- Manage hardware inventory, lifecycle, and equipment upgrades
- Assist with IT purchasing decisions and budget tracking
- Coordinate onboarding and offboarding processes with internal teams
- Support project planning, tracking, and vendor coordination
- Contribute to internal communications (e.g., Technology newsletter)
AI & Technology Enablement
- Support the adoption and integration of AI tools across the organization
- Contribute to the development of internal AI guidance, documentation, and best practice resources
- Identify opportunities to improve workflows through automation and AI-assisted solutions
- Provide hands-on guidance to users on approved AI tools and responsible use practices
- Stay current on emerging AI capabilities relevant to workplace productivity and IT operations
Work Location & On-Site Requirement
This role is based in our Arlington, Virginia, office and requires on-site support. Candidates must be within commuting distance and able to respond to in-office needs. On-site responsibilities include:
- Hardware troubleshooting, repair, and device resets
- Office network, Wi-Fi, and connectivity support
- Conferencing systems, printers, and related technologies
- Onboarding and offboarding setup, including device deployment
Position Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field preferred
- Working knowledge of Windows 10/11, macOS, and Microsoft Office Suite
- Experience troubleshooting computer hardware and peripherals
- 2–3 years of experience in an IT Help Desk or support role
- 2–3 years of experience administering Entra ID (Azure AD) and Microsoft 365 core services
- 2–3 years of experience managing and maintaining network infrastructure
(e.g., LAN/Wi-Fi, switches, connectivity)
- Familiarity with scripting or automation tools (e.g., PowerShell) is preferred; willingness to learn and leverage AI-assisted development is a plus
Rare is an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic. All employment-related decisions are based solely upon legitimate, job-related factors such as skill, ability, past performance, attendance, and length of service.