Job Title: Systems Administrator

Job Overview:

As a Systems and Network Administrator, you will play a key role in managing, supporting, and optimising our IT infrastructure to ensure smooth and efficient operations across our VFX pipelines. You’ll work closely with other departments to address technical challenges and support our artists and production teams with high-performance systems that meet the demands of VFX production.

Key Responsibilities:

• Server and Network Management: Administer, monitor, and maintain both physical and virtual servers, as well as our networking infrastructure, ensuring high availability and reliability across production environments.
• Systems Support: Provide hands-on support for users experiencing technical issues, addressing day-to-day operational requirements across hardware, software, and network resources.
• Storage and Backup Solutions: Manage and monitor data storage and backup systems, ensuring compliance with data retention policies and facilitating secure, reliable data recovery when needed.
• Security and Compliance: Implement and maintain security protocols, firewalls, and data protection measures, ensuring that our systems meet industry standards for cybersecurity and content protection.
• Software and Licensing Management: Oversee installation, configuration, and updates of critical software applications, tracking licences and compliance across the company.
• Troubleshooting and Issue Resolution: Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and network issues promptly to minimise downtime and ensure optimal performance in high-pressure production timelines.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain clear and comprehensive documentation for system configurations, policies, and troubleshooting procedures, ensuring knowledge is readily available for the team and stakeholders.
• Collaboration and Communication: Liaise with artists, producers, and the broader IT team to align technical solutions with project requirements, proactively identifying areas for improvement in the studio’s infrastructure.

Qualifications:

• Experience: 3+ years of experience in systems administration, ideally within VFX, media production, or similarly demanding environments.

Desirable Skills:

• Proficiency in Linux system administration and scripting (e.g., Bash, Python).
• Knowledge of Microsoft’s Active Directory.
• Experience with virtualization platforms (e.g., VMware, KVM, or Hyper-V) in a system administrator context, focusing on the deployment, management, and optimisation of virtualised environments.
• Strong knowledge of CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI).
• Hands-on experience with Pixit GPFS storage systems.
• Experience in a high-compute, creative industry (e.g., VFX, gaming) is a plus.Familiarity with network management and security best practices.

Soft Skills:

• Problem-solving mindset with the ability to work effectively under tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, able to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical staff.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.