IT Infrastructure Specialist in Longton

The IT Infrastructure Specialist is responsible for the optimal availability and performance of the company's network infrastructure and related IT systems. This role ensures the reliable operation of servers, networks, and applications, while also supporting end-users and maintaining security and compliance standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design & Planning: Design and develop technical specifications for new IT services. Outline and document operational tasks required for IT service management. Define monitoring and reporting requirements for performance reviews.
• Installation & Maintenance: Install and connect hardware to the network, including servers, PCs, printers, and plotters, and verify their functionality. Install new or updated system management and infrastructure-related applications. Perform routine and complex backups to ensure data integrity and system recoverability. Install and troubleshoot network software, managing switches, routers, VLANs, and firewalls.
• Support & Troubleshooting: Maintain accurate information about applications, including settings, versions, users, issues, and vendors. Provide second-line support for complex technical issues, escalating to vendors when necessary. Instruct and guide network users on new software implementations. Analyse and resolve complex problems related to office automation systems, telephony, applications, hardware, and peripherals. Provide individual support and answer complex user questions. Perform complex hardware repairs using hand tools.
• Virtualization & (Cloud) Administration: Manage servers and common virtualization platforms. Administer virtual machines, hosts, and storage area networks (SANs). Provision and manage cloud-based services and virtual networks. Manage Identity and Access Management (IAM) within (cloud) platforms. Conduct regular security checks of all IT services, including vulnerability scanning and managing Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools. Periodically evaluate the performance of servers and connected systems, proposing improvements to enhance both performance and security. Respond to security alerts. Test new software packages and resolve any issues discovered during testing. Verify the functionality of system management software and assigned applications, ensuring all licenses are valid. Ensure full awareness and compliance with regulations such as GDPR and security documents created by the CISO for audits.
• Operational Procedures & Projects: Develop requirements for system service and support in the event of system outages. Establish and document network management and usage procedures and guidelines, and monitor their enforcement. Participate in project groups for network expansion or modification, including those involving complex networking topics. Advise on the procurement, modification, and servicing of network hardware and peripherals.

Required Skills/Qualifications:

• A vocational degree or diploma in IT, such as an Associate's Degree, a relevant professional certification, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of relevant professional experience.
• Proficiency with general IT software, including but not limited to Microsoft Office and ITSM tools.
• Proven experience in Windows/Linux server administration, networking, and cloud platforms (Azure/AWS).
• Hands-on experience with firewalls, unified communications, and endpoint security.
• Certifications such as CompTIA Network+, ITIL Foundation, or Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate are a plus.

Travel Requirements: Hybrid role Up to 10% travel for site visits, infrastructure projects, and training.

Nijhuis Saur Industries UK & Ireland are committed to maintaining Environmental & Social Impact goals: To reach Net Zero emissions across our value chain by 2040. To continuously meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, accountability, maintaining B-Corp Certification. To be a socially responsible company creating a positive impact to all stakeholders including workers, communities, customers, and our planet.

Nijhuis Saur Industries UK & Ireland are an equal opportunity employer; we are committed to providing equal opportunities in all aspects of employment in line with the Equality Act 2010.