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Harvard University

IT Operations Engineer

Closes:

45

Job Details

  • Posting date: November 11, 2026
  • Job ID: 004388SR
  • Job Type: Full-time
  • Location: Cambridge
  • School/Unit: Harvard University Central Administration
  • Salary Grade: 056
  • Job Function: Information Technology
  • Work Format: Hybrid
  • FLSA Status: Exempt
  • Term Appointment: No
  • Union: 00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard University Central Administration?

Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals.

Job Description

Job Summary:

Independently support the IT infrastructure environment and/or facilities. Role may focus on maintenance, support and documentation/troubleshooting. Typically work as part of a team to implement IT solutions to business problems. Participate in projects.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

The IT Operations Engineer is responsible for providing advanced technical support, systems administration, network administration, and infrastructure support for the Credit Union’s headquarters, branches, remote users, and technology environments. This position reports to the Senior IT Operations Manager and works closely with the IT team, business units, vendors, and management to maintain secure, reliable, and efficient technology services.

The IT Operations Engineer supports end-user computing, Microsoft Windows environments, Active Directory, Microsoft 365, network connectivity, firewalls, switches, wireless networks, servers, cloud-based applications, and business-critical Credit Union systems. The position also assists with technology projects, disaster recovery testing, vendor coordination, cybersecurity initiatives, and the evaluation and implementation of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled tools and automation solutions.

Infrastructure and Systems Administration

  • Administer, monitor, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows servers, workstations, virtual environments, storage systems, printers, and related infrastructure.
  • Support Microsoft Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, file and print services, user accounts, security groups, and access permissions.
  • Assist with administration of Microsoft 365, including Exchange Online, Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive, Intune, and related security and collaboration tools.
  • Install, configure, test, upgrade, replace, and troubleshoot desktop computers, laptops, mobile devices, peripherals, operating systems, and software.
  • Maintain system documentation, configuration records, asset inventories, network diagrams, and support procedures.
  • Oversee the management of security technologies, including EDR, IAM, DLP, vulnerability and patch management and cloud security platforms.
  • Support branch technology, including teller workstations, printers, scanners, network equipment, digital signage, video conferencing systems, and other business-critical devices.

Network Administration

  • Monitor and troubleshoot LAN, WAN, VPN, wireless, internet, and branch connectivity issues.
  • Assist with administration and configuration of firewalls, routers, switches, wireless access points, network segmentation, VLANs, and remote-access technologies.
  • Troubleshoot TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, routing, switching, VPN, wireless, and network performance issues.
  • Assist with network security initiatives, including firewall rule reviews, secure remote access, network access controls, logging, monitoring, and incident response.
  • Work with telecommunications, internet service providers, managed service providers, and other vendors to resolve service interruptions and maintain reliable connectivity.
  • Participate in network upgrades, branch openings, office moves, technology refreshes, and infrastructure improvement projects.

Cybersecurity, Privacy, and Compliance

  • Assist with implementation and maintenance of security controls, including multifactor authentication, endpoint protection, encryption, access controls, patch management, and secure configuration standards.
  • Promptly report suspected phishing, malware, unauthorized access, lost devices, data exposure, or other security incidents.

Emerging Technology and Automation

  • Establish AI security architecture standards aligned with the Credit Union’s AI governance framework. Support the responsible adoption of emerging technologies, including AI-enabled productivity, analytics, AI security, and automation tools.
  • Partner with business leaders to evaluate AI and automation tools.
  • Identify opportunities to automate recurring IT support, monitoring, reporting, provisioning, and maintenance activities.
  • Assist with maintaining the Credit Union’s technology roadmap and identifying infrastructure improvements.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift, move, install, or remove technology equipment weighing up to 50 pounds and work in equipment closets, branch locations, and other technology-support environments.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

  • Minimum of two years’ post-secondary education or relevant work experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

  • Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent combination of education, certifications, and relevant work experience) in Information Technology, Computer Science, Network Administration, Cybersecurity, or a related field required.
  • Minimum of three years of progressively responsible IT support, systems administration, infrastructure, or network-support experience required.
  • Experience supporting Microsoft Windows desktop and server environments required.
  • Experience with Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, Microsoft 365, and user-access administration required.
  • Working knowledge of TCP/IP networking, routing, switching, VLANs, wireless networking, VPNs, and firewall concepts required.
  • Experience troubleshooting hardware, software, endpoint, printer, mobile-device, and network-connectivity issues required.
  • Strong customer service, communication, troubleshooting, and documentation skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
  • Experience supporting a financial institution, credit union, bank, regulated organization, or similarly security-conscious environment.
  • Experience with VMware, Hyper-V, Azure, Microsoft Intune, Microsoft Entra ID, Microsoft Defender, endpoint detection and response, or other cloud and virtualization technologies.
  • Experience administering or supporting firewall platforms, managed switches, wireless networks, SD-WAN, VPNs, and network-monitoring tools.
  • Experience with backup and disaster recovery technologies.
  • Experience with IT service management, ticketing systems, asset management, and project management tools such as Wrike.
  • Experience supporting core banking systems, digital banking platforms, teller systems, loan systems, ATM/ITM technology, branch technology, or other financial-services applications.
  • Experience evaluating or supporting AI-enabled tools, automation platforms, scripting, workflow automation, data analytics, or modern cloud-based technology solutions.
  • Experience with PowerShell, Microsoft Power Automate, or other scripting/automation tools.
  • Relevant certifications are preferred, including:
    • CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, or similar certifications;
    • Microsoft 365, Azure, Windows Server, or endpoint-management certifications;
    • Cisco CCNA or comparable networking certification;
    • ITIL Foundation; or VMware certifications
  • Ability to lift, move, install, or remove technology equipment weighing up to 50 pounds and work in equipment closets, branch locations, and other technology-support environments.

Certificates and Licenses:

  • Completion of Harvard IT Academy specified foundational courses (or external equivalent) preferred

Additional Information

Standard Hours/Schedule:

  • 35 hours per week

Visa Sponsorship Information:

  • Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening:

  • Identity, Education, Criminal, Credit, Certification/License, Motor Vehicle Record, Drug Test, DOT Physical, CORI, Employment, Prohibited Parties, Not Applicable

Other Information:

Onsite Requirements:

  • This role is required to be on site at least 2 days per week.
  • Must also participate in on-call rotation and provide after-hours, weekend, and holiday support as needed.
  • Travel to branch and office locations in Cambridge, Somerville, and Boston as needed to support Credit Union operations.
  • Please provide a cover letter and resume as one document with your application.
  • This position has a 90-day orientation and review period.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 056. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

Job details

Title
IT Operations Engineer
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Cambridge
Published
Nov 12, 2026
Closes:
Jan 11, 2027
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Network/System Administrator

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Frequently Asked Questions

📋What is the IT Operations Engineer?

This listing is for IT Operations Engineer at Harvard University.

📍Where is this role located?

The listed location is Cambridge.

💰What is the salary?

Salary is not listed on this posting.

📅When do applications close?

Applications close on Jan 11, 2027.

💼What type of appointment is this?

The listed type is Full time.

📝How do I apply?

Use the Apply Now button on this listing to submit your application.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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