IT Infrastructure Specialist

Job Summary

This position supports the design, delivery, and ongoing improvement of technology solutions that enable university operations, reporting, research, and service delivery. The incumbent works across application development, data/reporting, infrastructure support, and client consultation to help translate operational needs into reliable technical solutions.

The role requires a blend of software development, systems administration, database and reporting knowledge, and analytical problem-solving to support both day-to-day operations and longer-term technology planning. Through this work, the incumbent contributes to effective service delivery, informed decision-making, and the continued reliability and modernization of university technology services.

Responsibilities/accountabilities:

1. Researching, consulting and recommending suitable technology for client needs Collaborate with users to understand their hardware needs and ensure they have the necessary tools throughout the hardware lifecycle. Understand short- and long-term technology trends. Ensure that the TELE program continues to benefit students, faculty, and staff at Ontario Tech.
2. Proof of Concept and Piloting New Technologies Research, test, and implement new solutions to enhance the TELE program, including user group pilots. Explore alternative imaging solutions and software deployment systems, including cloud-based virtualization tools like Moka5, VMWare Horizon, and Citrix.
3. DUO MFA Administrator Manage the DUO application Assist in establishing accounts for new users. Respond to Cherwell trouble tickets for end-user support Test and release updated versions of the DUO Mobile App
4. System Management Conducted high-level system administration on server applications and installed critical patches and software upgrades with minimal user impact and downtime. Develop comprehensive documentation and provide expert instruction to users on system usage, supporting client devices on multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. Remediate security risks identified to safeguard systems and data from external and internal threats. Execute backup strategies to minimize the risk of data loss and ensure the continuity of operations in case of a system failure or disaster. Collaborate with the procurement team to secure and maintain essential system licenses, ensuring the ongoing availability of critical software tools and services. Monitor system health proactively, troubleshoot issues promptly, and use technical expertise to resolve problems before they affect users.
5. Development and Testing Design, develop, and maintain full-stack applications and databases for various university departments, including software and hardware requests and identity management reporting. Create and manage comprehensive test environments for internal and external testing, ensuring seamless deployment of new features with minimal downtime. Integrate web-based applications with enterprise systems, databases, and third-party applications, enhancing data insights and streamlining processes. Engineer complex system solutions to support institutional objectives, leveraging information architecture and process design to automate or enhance existing processes.
6. Data Stewardship, Analysis and Reporting Administer and architect databases, optimize queries, and manage ETL processes for efficient data processing and analysis Design and maintain reporting applications, create customized reports, and automate data transfers to improve efficiency. Capture and analyze historical data for trend reporting, auditing, and accurate forecasting for budgeting and resource planning. Identify future needs, expand databases, and develop infrastructure budgets to meet evolving business requirements.