Senior System Administrator

Senior System Administrator

Classification: ANU Officer 8 (Information Technology)

Salary Package: $121,359 – $129,772 per annum plus 17% superannuation 

Terms: 2x Full time, Continuing 

Location: Canberra-based (hybrid work arrangements available) 

As a Senior Systems Administrator to play a key role in the uplift and continual improvement of digital services across the University. This is a senior technical position focused on delivering secure, reliable, and modern systems through strong engineering practices, automation, and collaboration within a matrix delivery model. 

You’ll operate as a trusted senior practitioner within cross-functional squads, providing deep technical expertise and influencing outcomes across platforms, services, and teams. 

About the Role

In this role, you will contribute to the design, operation, and ongoing improvement of the University’s Windows, Linux and application environments. 

Working under the direction of a Systems Lead, you’ll apply your technical depth to support, upgrade, and maintain enterprise platforms while helping shape modern, automation-driven ways of working. You’ll collaborate closely with developers, infrastructure specialists, and business stakeholders to deliver stable, secure, and scalable digital services that support teaching, learning, research, and operations. 

This role is ideal for a senior technologist who enjoys solving complex problems, improving systems at scale, and influencing outcomes through expertise rather than formal authority. 

Key Focus Areas

• Provide senior technical expertise in the support, upgrade, and management of enterprise Windows, Linux, and application platforms. 
• Design, configure, and support systems in hybrid on-premises and cloud environments in line with ISM and PSPF requirements. 
• Champion an automation-first approach through scripting, Infrastructure-as-Code, and CI/CD practices. 
• Troubleshoot complex incidents, identify root causes, and implement preventative improvements. 
• Collaborate across squads, streams, and platforms to evaluate and implement fit-for-purpose technical solutions. 
• Produce high-quality system documentation and technical specifications. 
• Contribute to a culture of service improvement, continuous learning, and operational excellence. 

You’re a highly capable senior systems professional who brings:

• Extensive hands-on experience administering and improving Windows, Lnix, and/or application environments in a complex setting. 
• Strong technical capability across automation, scripting, and modern DevOps practices. 
• A solid understanding of networking, security principles, and enterprise platform operations. 
• Proven ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues end-to-end. 
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders. 
• A proactive mindset with a strong focus on service quality, reliability, and continuous improvement. 
• Experience in higher education, research, or large enterprise environments will be highly regarded but is not essential. 

For further information please contact Jeffrey Bird System Lead, System Administration, E: Jeffrey.Bird@anu.edu.au

The University actively encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. For more information on employment opportunities, contact our Indigenous Employment Consultant on indigenous.employment@anu.edu.au 

ANU values diversity and inclusion and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to those of all backgrounds and identities. For more information about staff equity at ANU, visit https://services.anu.edu.au/human-resources/respect-inclusion

Application information

In order to apply for this role please make sure that you upload the following documents:

• A statement addressing the selection criteria.
• A current curriculum vitae (CV) which includes the names and contact details of at least three referees (preferably including a current or previous supervisor). If your CV does not include referees you can complete these online when prompted in the application form.
• Other documents, if required.

Applications which do not address the selection criteria may not be considered for the position.

Please note: The successful candidate must have rights to live and work in this country and will be required to undergo a background check during the recruitment process. An offer of employment is conditional on satisfactory results.