UK-Based Senior Systems Administrator in Oxford

Axion BioSystems is a life science tools company headquartered in Atlanta, GA, USA. Axion is a leading manufacturer of live-cell imaging and bioelectronic assay systems used to evaluate the biology of cells, including neurons, cardiomyocytes, cancer cells, immune cells, and more. Axion’s products are actively used by pharmaceutical and biotech companies, governmental agencies, and universities in ground-breaking research for applications such as cancer immunotherapy, drug discovery and development, disease modeling, and safety/toxicity.

We are looking for a hands‑on, experienced Senior Systems Administrator, to own, secure, and scale our Global IT infrastructure (with an EMEA & APAC region focus). This is a generalist role with scope for deep technical work, perfect for someone who thrives in a dynamic, collaborative environment. You will be responsible for ensuring the reliability, security, and performance of systems that directly impact our operations. You will serve as the go‑to expert for all things infrastructure, from server rooms to cloud applications. This is a hybrid position with 1-2 onsite days at our Oxford office.

You are an experienced Systems Administrator looking for a role where you can make a significant impact. You enjoy the balance of "keeping the lights on" while also scoping out new projects to improve the environment. You have a "security-first" mindset and are comfortable communicating with both technical and non‑technical staff.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Infrastructure Management: Administer and maintain on-premises servers (Windows/Linux), cloud servers (Azure) and storage. Ensure high availability and disaster recovery readiness.
• Cloud & Identity Services: Manage our Microsoft 365 tenant, including Entra ID (Azure AD), Exchange Online, and SharePoint. Oversee user identity lifecycle, access controls, and security policies (SSO/MFA).
• Network Security: Maintain and monitor network infrastructure (firewalls, switching, VPNs) to safeguard against internal and external threats. Collaborate with the global team on security audits and remediation.
• Automation & Scripting: Develop scripts (PowerShell, PowerAutomate) to automate routine tasks, software deployments, and system monitoring to improve efficiency.
• Endpoint Management: Manage endpoints (Windows/macOS) using tools like Microsoft Configuration Manager (SCCM) or Intune, including overseeing the transition to modern management practices.
• Backup & Disaster Recovery: Own the backup strategy for critical data and systems, performing regular tests to ensure business continuity.
• Vendor & Stakeholder Management: Liaise with third-party vendors for hardware/software procurement and support. Translate business requirements from the manufacturing and R&D teams into robust technical solutions. Support a DevOps team through the full software delivery lifecycle of an Azure-hosted SaaS web portal, contributing network expertise across design, deployment, monitoring, and incident response.

Skills and Qualifications

Must Haves:

• Proven experience (5+ years) in a Systems Administrator role within a SME or manufacturing environment.
• Deep knowledge of Microsoft Stack: Windows Server (2016/2019/2022), Active Directory, Group Policy, and Microsoft 365 (Entra ID, Exchange Online).
• Networking: Solid understanding of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VLANs, and firewall management (e.g., FortiGate or similar).
• Scripting: Proficiency in PowerShell for automation and task scheduling.
• Security: Experience implementing security best practices, patching, and end‑point protection.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to document systems clearly.
• Fluent in written and spoken English. UK Citizenship or permanent residency required.

Nice To Haves:

• Experience with Linux server administration (Ubuntu/Debian).
• Familiarity with Azure cloud services.
• Knowledge of ISO 27001 or similar compliance frameworks.

Salary sacrifice group personal pension plan, electric vehicle leasing and cycle to work schemes, life assurance and critical illness group insurance policies, access to employee well‑being helplines, group medical cash back plan, 25 days annual leave and statutory holidays.