Hire Resolve 2025: Systems Administrator Position – Launch Your IT Career
The Mathematical Sciences Institute is looking for suitable young people to apply for their Systems Administrator position. The closing date for applications is 30 November 2024 – so act fast, or the role could be filled before you even finish reading this.
What the job actually looks like
If you land this gig, you’ll be the backbone of the institute’s IT world. Every day you’ll keep the servers humming, the Wi‑Fi strong, and the cloud tools tidy. Imagine juggling a few different tech stacks while earning a solid salary and a chance to learn high‑level network and server skills.
- Infrastructure: Check on and fix servers, networking gear and backup systems.
- Networking: Set up VPNs, VLANs, and make sure the wireless access points cover every corner of the campus.
- Virtual machines & containers: Deploy KVM VMs and LXC/LXD containers, and keep them up‑to‑date with scripts.
- Cloud work: Keep Google Workspace running smooth – add users, tweak groups, manage Drive and Sites.
- Help desks: Be the first line of support for lecturers and staff who run into server or networking hiccups.
- Docs: Keep a tidy record of every network diagram, config file and software update so future you (or anyone else) can find it later.
Who should apply?
| Skill | What you need |
|---|---|
| Linux | Strong on Debian or Ubuntu – you should feel comfortable in a terminal. |
| Networking basics | TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, OpenVPN – know how they fit together. |
| Certifications | CompTIA Network+, MikroTik, or equivalent training. |
| Advanced network tools | Experience with Radius/Eduroam, VXLAN, NFS. |
| Server software | Familiarity with Apache, LDAP, Samba, CUPS. |
| Scripting | Able to write simple Shell or Python scripts for automation. |
| Cloud & storage | Prior admin of Google Workspace and ZFS storage is a plus. |
If you’re a recent grad, a learner who’s done an IT course, or a curious self‑taught coder with a knack for troubleshooting, you fit the bill.
What you’ll get
- Competitive salary – based on your experience and skill set.
- Real‑world exposure – work on live systems and see the direct impact of your fixes.
- Mentorship – you’ll be working alongside experienced sysadmins and researchers.
- Portability – the skills you gain translate to any IT role in South Africa or overseas.
How to apply
- Grab your CV – keep it tidy, focus on any IT or tech projects, and add a quick cover note about why you’re excited for this role.
- Attach: a PDF of your CV, a brief 1‑page cover letter, and any certificates (if you have them).
- Send an email to careers@mathsciinstitute.co.za with the subject line “Systems Administrator Application – [Your Name]”.
- Check your inbox for a confirmation and next steps.
Tip: Mention any hands‑on projects you’ve done on your own server or a hobby VM lab. It shows you’re already doing the work!
Quick checklist
- [ ] CV ready
- [ ] Cover letter (why you? why this institute?)
- [ ] Certifications (if applicable)
- [ ] Email to careers@mathsciinstitute.co.za
Want more details about this role or other tech jobs?
Head over to the Mathematical Sciences Institute homepage and explore other learning and work opportunities that could be a game‑changer for your future.
Apply right here before it closes and step into a tech career that pays, teaches, and keeps you on the cutting edge.
