About Us:
We are a rapidly expanding company with a global footprint. Recently, we transitioned from an outsourced IT model to an in-house team, creating an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to make a real impact. Our IT team is young, ambitious, and growing – this role offers the chance to put your stamp on our systems and contribute to our success story.
Role Overview:
As a Senior Systems Administrator, you will be responsible for managing and optimising our Microsoft on-premises and Azure environments, as well as administering Microsoft Business Central. You will report directly to the Head of IT and, in some instances, act as their second-in-command. This is a hands-on technical role requiring strong expertise across infrastructure, security, cloud technologies, and ERP administration.
Key Responsibilities:
* Administer and maintain Microsoft Windows Server environments (including Hyper-V virtualisation).
* Manage Microsoft Windows Server services, including Defender, Intune with Autopilot, and identity/security configurations.
* Administer Microsoft Business Central (user management, permissions, integrations, troubleshooting).
* Oversee Veeam Backup & Replication for on-premises infrastructure.
* Configure and maintain SonicWall firewalls, including VPNs, VLANs, and Access Control Lists (ACLs).
* Manage Unifi Cloud Wi-Fi infrastructure and ensure optimal connectivity across sites.
* Implement and maintain ITIL-aligned processes for incident, change, and problem management.
* Ensure compliance with UK, Ireland, and EU audit guidelines and cybersecurity best practices.
* Participate in Disaster Recovery (DR) and Business Continuity rehearsals quarterly.
* Support and mentor junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
* Act as a key escalation point for complex technical issues.
Essential Skills & Experience:
* Minimum 4–5 years' experience in IT systems administration.
* Microsoft On-Premises & Azure administration experience.
* Strong knowledge of Windows Server, Hyper-V, and Active Directory.
* Proficiency with Microsoft Defender, Intune, and Autopilot.
* Hands-on experience with Microsoft Business Central administration.
* Experience with Veeam Backup solutions.
* Hands-on experience with SonicWall firewalls and Unifi Cloud Wi-Fi management.
* CCNA certification (or equivalent) with solid understanding of VLANs and ACLs.
* Familiarity with ITIL principles (certification preferred).
* Strong awareness of cybersecurity best practices and compliance requirements.
* Full driving licence and own transport (required for travel between two Laois factories and occasional UK site visits).
* Excellent communication skills and a people-first approach, understanding that IT is an enabler for the business and keeping services running is the top priority.
Desirable:
* Experience in environments undergoing transition from outsourced to in-house IT.
* Knowledge of audit frameworks for UK, Ireland, and EU (ISO 27001, GDPR compliance).
* Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects.
Cybersecurity & Audit Awareness:
* GDPR compliance and data protection principles.
* ISO 27001 standards and internal audit readiness.
* Patch management and vulnerability remediation.
* Secure configuration of endpoints and servers.
* MFA enforcement and conditional access policies.
* Backup integrity and disaster recovery planning.
What We Offer:
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* Opportunity to work directly with the Head of IT and influence strategic decisions.
* A dynamic environment with global expansion plans.
* Career progression and professional development support.
Please note that all candidates must be fully authorised to work in Ireland without the need for visa sponsorship. Midland Steel is not accepting unsolicited CVs from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services for this role. Midland Steel is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer. We consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, colour, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and will accommodate applicants' needs, in accordance with applicable legislation, throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.