About the Role: We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Server Administrator with deep expertise in virtualization technologies to join our dynamic IT team. In this role, you will design, implement, and maintain our server infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance, scalability, and reliability. Server Virtualization:
Provide technical support for VMware and Microsoft Hyper-V environments hosting 4,000+ servers.
Implement, deploy, and administer VMware ESXi and Microsoft Hyper-V in large, clustered environments.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and maintain virtualization best practices and standardized configurations.
Perform advanced troubleshooting and performance tuning.
Proactively monitor server environments for capacity, performance, and potential issues.
Leverage hypervisor-agnostic workload relocation and backup tools (e.g., Zerto, Azure Site Recovery) for migrations and business continuity.
Understand storage technologies (e.g., EMC, HP, NetApp, NAS) and their integration with virtual environments.
Conduct capacity planning, predictive analysis, and reporting for virtual servers.
Utilize automation tools (e.g., RPA, Orchestrator, Ansible, PowerShell) to streamline server builds and improve operational efficiency.
Engage with vendors (e.g., Microsoft, VMware, Dell, HP) to resolve escalations and ensure timely support.
Server Administration:
Administer and troubleshoot Windows Server (up to 2022) and common Linux distributions.
Perform data center operations, including server racking, stacking, hardware replacement, and annual refresh projects (Dell and HP experience preferred).
Handle advanced Windows Server troubleshooting, applying deep knowledge of security best practices and compliance standards.
Manage cross-team technical issues and collaborate with other teams to resolve complex problems.
Ensure successful execution of data center installation projects.
Apply solid networking principles (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP) to maintain connectivity and troubleshoot issues.
Use scripting languages (PowerShell, VB, .NET) to automate routine tasks and processes (desired).
Understand Active Directory (AD) member server management and Group Policy Object (GPO) processing.
Other Duties as Assigned:
Provide after-hours support and participate in 24x7x365 on-call rotations (quarterly one-week secondary and one-week primary rotations).
Promptly respond to inbound phone calls, emails, and automated alerts.
Document all incidents, including root cause analyses.
Prepare detailed status reports and collaborate with technology leads, managers, and escalation teams.
Complete special projects and annual objectives as assigned.
Research, identify, and propose solutions to emerging technical challenges.
Interact professionally and respectfully with team members, vendors, and stakeholders.
Develop and maintain standard configuration templates, processes, and procedures.
Communicate clearly, maintain dependable attendance, and occasionally travel as needed.
Position Requirements
Minimum Requirements:
Direct work experience in server administration and virtualization.
Proven ability to build, deploy, and troubleshoot Hyper-V, VMware, and Windows servers.
Hands-on experience with rack-mount, and virtual server infrastructure, including in-person deployments and maintenance.
Advanced knowledge of virtualization technologies (Hyper-V, VMware) and Windows Operating Systems.
Understanding of TCP/IP networking and associated troubleshooting.
Ability to work under pressure, handle multiple tasks, and operate with minimal supervision.
Strong organizational and documentation skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency in PowerShell scripting.
Additional Desirable Experience:
Experience with Cloud platforms (Azure)
Experience with Citrix environments
Experience with SharePoint administration (on prem and SPO)
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field is desirable, or equivalent experience.
Experience/Specific Knowledge:
Demonstrated experience as a Server Engineer, Server Administrator, or similar role.
Certifications, Licenses, and Registrations:
Basic server hardware certifications (A+, Dell, HP) are highly desired.
Microsoft certifications are preferred.
Azure Cloud certifications are a plus.
Physical Demands
Moderate lifting (up to 50+ pounds); team lifting or mechanical assistance available.
Combination of sitting, standing, and walking; occasional bending and kneeling.
May involve pushing/pulling equipment and server racks.
Location
This position is located in Houston, TX.
On-site support required on core onsite support days (Mon-Weds).
Some on-site work may be needed on flex days, nights, or weekends for emergencies or planned after-hours activities.
Must be eligible to work in the U.S. without visa sponsorship.
Working Conditions
Primarily office and datacenter environments.
Supervisory Responsibility
This position currently has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
*Job level and pay commensurate with experience and skill set.
Kinder Morgan, Inc. offers employees a comprehensive benefits package. Benefits offered for this position may include the following: health care benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage; Flexible and Health Spending Accounts; Life and Accidental Death and Disability insurance; Supplemental Life and Accidental Death and Disability insurance for employee and dependents; retirement benefits including a 401(k) with employer and employee contributions and a company-funded pension plan; paid time off; paid parental bonding leave; paid holidays; a flexible work schedule and many voluntary benefit plans.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT: We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
