Senior Systems Administrator

Are you a tech-savvy problem solver who thrives on keeping systems running smoothly and securely? 

UNICEF Canada – one of Canada’s most respected and historic charities – is looking for a Senior System Administrator to contribute to managing and evolving our IT infrastructure. As the backbone of our technology operations, you’ll be part of a team ensuring our systems are secure, reliable, future-ready, and help power our team, volunteers, and partners in doing their best work in support of children!

Position Details

Why UNICEF & UNICEF Canada?

UNICEF is the world’s farthest-reaching humanitarian organization for children. Across 190 countries and territories, and in the world’s toughest places, we provide and advocate for education, health and nutrition services. We protect children from violence and abuse. Bring clean water and sanitation to those in need. Keep them safe from climate change and disease. Serve as the world’s largest provider of vaccines. Before, during and after emergencies, we’re on the ground with life-saving help and hope. The needs of children around the world continue to increase and the role of UNICEF is more important than ever.

UNICEF Canada is one of 32 National Committees located in high-income countries around the world. Our team exists to fundraise for UNICEF’s highest priorities, and to work neutrally with governments and the private sector in Canada and internationally to advance the rights and well-being of children and youth.

As UNICEF Canada prepares to launch a bold new Strategic Plan in 2026, a strong, committed team will be foundational to our success. Be part of this next phase of impact!

The Opportunity

The Senior System Administrator (SSA) plays a critical role in ensuring the reliability, security, and efficiency of the organization’s IT infrastructure. This includes provisioning, configuring, and maintaining systems and services—on-premises, cloud-based, and hybrid.

The Senior System Administrator drives innovation by evaluating emerging technologies and provides expert guidance to project teams to ensure smooth transitions from development to production environments. This role supports the entire organization—staff, volunteers, and partners—by aligning IT operations with business goals.

Key Accountabilities

Cloud and Microsoft 365 Administration (25%)

• Manage and optimize Microsoft 365 services (SharePoint, OneDrive, Teams, Exchange Online, Power Platform).
• Administer security and compliance tools, including Microsoft Defender, Conditional Access, MFA, DLP policies, and Information Protection.
• Ensure smooth integration between Microsoft 365, Active Directory, and hybrid cloud environments.
• Monitor system health and respond to alerts via the Microsoft 365 Admin Center\
• Stay current on M365 updates and implement new features as needed.
• Support users through training and guidance on Microsoft 365 tools.
• Plan and manage data backup, retention, and recovery to support business continuity.
• Research, recommend, and implement cloud services (e.g., Azure, Salesforce NPC) aligned with organizational needs.
• Use cloud automation tools to enhance system performance and security.
• Work with internal teams to ensure new cloud solutions integrate well with existing infrastructure.

Cybersecurity & Compliance (25%)

• Protect systems from threats like malware, phishing, and ransomware by managing the organization’s cybersecurity framework.
• Ensure systems follow industry standards (e.g., ISO 27001, NIST) and internal security policies.
• Manage Microsoft 365 Security & Compliance Center tools such as Data Loss Prevention (DLP), Information Governance, and Conditional Access.
• Monitor security alerts using various tools (e.g., Microsoft Defender, Azure Security Center) to detect and respond to risks.
• Develop and maintain cybersecurity documentation, including incident response plans, breach procedures, and security policies.
• Run regular security checks like vulnerability scans, penetration tests, and audits.
• Support cross-functional teams in applying security best practices in all IT projects and systems.
• Provide security awareness training and updates to staff to ensure compliance with cybersecurity policies and reduce the risk of user-related security breaches.

Network Administration (25%)

• Manage and support network infrastructure, including FortiGate firewalls, HP/Aruba switches, Microsoft Azure, and Windows Server 2016/2019.
• Provide Tier 2 and 3 technical support across on-premise and cloud-based services.
• Recommend and help implement automation, policies, and procedures to maintain high service levels.
• Document policies, procedures, systems, configurations, and network architecture using tools like Microsoft Visio.
• Research and recommend new network technologies, security protocols, and cloud solutions (e.g., Azure, AWS).
• Lead and support IT infrastructure projects at head office and regional sites.
• Configure and maintain network monitoring tools such as WhatsUp Gold.

Server & Application Management (25%)

• Regularly monitor server health, system performance, logs, and backup jobs across virtual (Hyper-V), cloud, and physical environments.
• Perform regular security checks to detect intrusions and maintain firewall and antivirus protection.
• Manage and automate backup and disaster recovery systems (on-prem, hybrid, and cloud) including SAN/NAS storage.
• Maintain user accounts and permissions in Active Directory (on-premise and Azure AD); implement and document Group Policies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, and user issues; coordinate with affected teams.
• Apply system updates, patches, and upgrades; configure new services as needed.
• Optimize server resources and document operational procedures.
• Track system performance for capacity planning and perform hardware upgrades as required.
• Maintain data center equipment and environmental controls.
• Support Citrix environments, email platforms (Microsoft 365, Exchange Online), antivirus/anti-spam tools, and other core systems.
• Schedule and perform maintenance tasks during off-hours as needed to minimize disruption.

Additional Qualifications

• Education and Certifications: Completion of a two-year post-secondary degree or equivalent technical accreditation (e.g., Microsoft Azure Administrator, CCNA, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+).
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years in the role of Systems Administrator, specifically in a Windows Server 2012/2016 Active Directory environment.
• Active Directory Expertise: Proven experience (minimum 3 years) in creating and configuring Group Policies (GPOs) across the domain.
• Microsoft 365 Administration: Minimum of 3 years managing, administering, and supporting Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, Microsoft Defender, and Advanced Threat Protection.
• SQL and Databases: Strong technical expertise in MS SQL Server, including backup strategies and cloud-based databases (e.g., Azure SQL).
• Hardware & Networking: Excellent technical knowledge of workstation and server hardware, including VMware/Hyper-V, printers, and networking equipment. Advanced knowledge of network protocols such as TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN, and VLAN.
• M365 and Office Applications: Proficiency in managing SharePoint, OneDrive, and the full MS Office suite, including tools like Visio and Project.
• Travel & Flexibility: Willingness to travel periodically within Canada and perform off-hours maintenance tasks as required.
• Backup & Restore Solutions: Knowledge and experience with Datto backup solutions for data protection and disaster recovery.
• Firewall & Security: Proficiency with Barracuda and FortiGate firewalls, including configuration and management.
• CRM/ERP Systems: Experience with Blackbaud’s Raiser’s Edge or other ERP/CRM systems.
• VoIP Technologies: Solid understanding of Voice over IP (VoIP) technologies and infrastructure.
• System Monitoring & Management: Experience with MS Operations Manager for performance monitoring and system management.
• Web Technologies: Familiarity with web technologies for system integration and management.
• Problem Solving: Excellent problem identification and resolution skills, with a proactive approach to troubleshooting technical issues.
• Communication: Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical staff.
• Project Management: Demonstrated project management skills, including the ability to lead projects from planning through execution and completion.
• Collaboration: Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a focus on delivering high-quality results.

An Employer of Choice: What We Offer

UNICEF Canada is where diverse talent & passion come together to create extraordinary impact for every child. We are committed to being an employer of choice and building a culture that is inclusive, ambitious, compassionate, and high impact. 

Members of the UNICEF Canada team have access to the following employee benefits:

Our Commitment to Inclusive Workplaces & Recruitment

UNICEF Canada is an inclusive workplace and is committed to championing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. Requests for accommodation can be made at any stage of the recruitment process.

At UNICEF Canada, we believe strongly in personal connections and our hiring process is entirely human-driven. We do not use AI or automated systems to review applications or conduct interviews. Each candidate is evaluated by our experienced team to ensure a fair and thoughtful hiring experience.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter as one document to careers@unicef.ca by May 14, 2025. Please include your salary expectations in your cover email and reference Senior Systems Administrator in the subject heading. 

UNICEF Canada thanks all applicants for their interest in this opportunity, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Consistent with our Child Safeguarding Policy, all successful candidates must receive clearance by a police background check (including a vulnerable sector screen).