Position: System Administrator (4–6 years of experience)
Location: Chennai
Position: Full Time
Start Date: 15th July 2026
About Us
Celebrating over fifteen years of innovative and collaborative work, Athena Infonomics has established itself as a data-driven global consultancy that leverages social science research, data science, and technology to provide user-centric, context-specific solutions and advice to decision makers. Our multidisciplinary and multi-cultural team spread across Asia, Africa, North America and Europe exemplify extensive experience in designing and applying research methods to co-design and co-produce useful research that is inclusive and relevant.
Objectives of this Role
- Maintain and support IT operations, infrastructure, Microsoft 365 services, endpoints, collaboration platforms, licenses, and business applications.
- Ensure reliable, secure, and efficient IT services for users across hybrid and remote work environments.
- Manage user lifecycle activities including onboarding, offboarding, access management, and license administration.
- Support cybersecurity initiatives, operational improvements, automation efforts, and technology adoption across the organization.
- Manage IT assets, procurement activities, vendor relationships, and operational documentation.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of IT infrastructure, operational processes, user experience, and service delivery.
- Support the adoption and responsible use of AI-powered tools, automation technologies, and digital workplace solutions.
- Partner with internal and external partners to communicate project status, activities, and achievements.
Responsibilities
- Administer Microsoft 365 services including Exchange Online, Teams, SharePoint Online, OneDrive, and Entra ID (Azure AD).
- Manage user accounts, licenses, distribution groups, shared mailboxes, and security groups.
- Configure and support Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Conditional Access, and identity-related security controls.
- Handle user onboarding, offboarding, access reviews, and license lifecycle management.
- Provide remote and onsite support for desktops, laptops, printers, mobile devices, and peripherals.
- Troubleshoot hardware, software, operating systems, Microsoft 365 services, and business applications.
- Manage SharePoint permissions, document libraries, collaboration sites, and access requests.
- Support Microsoft Teams administration, troubleshooting, and user adoption.
- Maintain IT asset inventory and lifecycle records.
- Coordinate procurement, warranty management, repairs, replacements, and disposal of IT equipment.
- Manage software licensing, renewals, and vendor coordination activities.
- Support endpoint security initiatives and cybersecurity best practices.
- Monitor and respond to security alerts, vulnerabilities, and operational security controls.
- Assist in managing networking components including firewalls, switches, routers, wireless networks, and internet connectivity.
- Support cloud-based services and business applications used within the organization.
- Perform routine system health checks, backup monitoring, and operational maintenance activities.
- Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency through automation and process improvements.
- Support automation initiatives using Power Automate, PowerShell, scripting, or similar tools.
- Maintain and improve IT documentation, SOPs, workflows, and knowledge repositories.
- Assist with AI adoption initiatives and responsible use of AI tools within business operations.
- Work closely with internal stakeholders and external vendors to ensure effective delivery of IT services.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
- 4–6 years of experience in Systems Administration, IT Infrastructure, or IT Operations roles.
- Strong hands-on experience administering Microsoft 365, Azure Active Directory (Entra ID), and Windows Server environments.
- Experience managing network infrastructure, including firewalls, routers, switches, VPNs, and wireless networks.
- Working knowledge of Linux server administration and troubleshooting.
- Experience supporting cloud environments, preferably Microsoft Azure; exposure to AWS is desirable.
- Proficiency in endpoint management, patch management, antivirus/EDR solutions, and IT security best practices.
- Familiarity with backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity planning.
- Experience with IT asset management, software licensing, procurement processes, and vendor management.
- Understanding of cybersecurity frameworks, compliance requirements, and information security controls.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to support both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Experience supporting hybrid and remote work environments.
- Relevant certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, Microsoft 365 Administrator, CompTIA Network+, Security+, AWS Cloud Practitioner, or equivalent certifications are preferred.
- Prior experience in consulting, professional services, development sector, non-profit, or social impact organizations is an advantage.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams in a growing organization.
Athena’s Work Culture
At Athena, we function in an outcomes-based work environment with flexible hours and a high level of autonomy. Professional development and thought leadership are key elements of our business model: we support our team members' professional growth through on-the-job training, and we encourage the cultivation of our colleagues’ personal brands through participation in panels, events, publications, and other thought-leadership opportunities. We embrace a transparent, open work environment with meaningful leadership pathways for those with inventive ideas and initiatives.
Athena Infonomics is an Equal Opportunities Employer
Athena Infonomics is an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
AI Proficiency and Responsible Use
Proficiency in the responsible and sophisticated use of AI is a mandatory requirement for all roles, across all levels and functions at Athena Infonomics.
