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JN
Jr Systems Administrator at Janus Networks
Janus Networks
Alpine, CA
Information Technology
Posted 1 days ago
JOB DESCRIPTION
Are you a hardworking IT professional who is truly passionate about computers and infrastructure? We are seeking a reliable, detail-oriented Systems Administrator to join our team in Sorrento Valley. This is a hands-on onsite role that combines high-level server management with physical hardware maintenance and data center oversight. We have flexible hours so we can work around your school schedule. Core Requirements Operating Systems: Expert-level administration of Windows Server 2019 and 2022. Networking: Deep understanding of TCP/IP, including the ability to differentiate and configure DHCP, WINS, and DNS. Certification: Must hold a Microsoft Certification (MCP or MCSE). Hardware: Proven experience with various flavors of Dell Equipment. Education: High School Diploma (minimum) and must be fluent in the designated as the official language of the United States Logistics: Must be a US Citizen (No H1-B). Must have a reliable car and valid driver's license for travel to Kearney Mesa. Must have a personal cell phone (monthly stipend provided). Availability: Must be able to participate in a scheduled on-call rotation. Preferred Skills (The "Plus" List) Experience setting up or managing a physical Data Center. Strong expertise with Cisco Firewalls and Routers. Virtualization experience using Hyper-V. Proficiency with enterprise-level Backup Software. How to Apply Please email your resume along with your answers to the following technical questionnaire. Applications without questionnaire responses will not be considered. Technical Interview Questionnaire 1. Operating Systems Describe your depth of knowledge regarding Windows Server environments. Do you have experience with non-Windows OS (Linux, macOS, etc.)? Please describe. 2. Hardware & Disaster Recovery Describe your experience replacing hard drives and recovering data from damaged disks. Which image/ghosting software have you utilized? Have you ever replaced a motherboard or performed major hardware installs? 3. Networking Describe your experience with TCP/IP networking. List specific Firewall, Wireless Router, and Access Point models you have configured. Have you physically installed or maintained cabled Ethernet networks? 4. Windows Infrastructure Describe your experience configuring Active Directory and DNS. Have you previously managed legacy Windows 2000/2003 networks? 5. Security & Antivirus Which centralized antivirus applications have you managed? Describe your manual process for removing stubborn viruses from infected systems. 6. Backup & Storage List the backup applications you are familiar with. Scenario: What backup strategy would you implement for a Windows 2003 Domain (Active Directory) with 14 workstations, 4 laptops, 1 Exchange 2003 server, and 1 File server? Describe your experience with RAID configurations (setup, troubleshooting, and "broken" RAID recovery). Describe a time you had to restore a server from a complete crash. 7. Remote Access & Email Describe your experience configuring client-server VPNs and other remote access solutions. Which email servers (Exchange, etc.) are you familiar with, and what are your strategies for backing up email data?
Typical entry-level pay: $76k for Database Administrators nationally
National salary averages
Expected entry-level
$76k
Entry
Mid
Senior
Expected
$57k
Market range (10th-90th percentile)
$161k
Senior roles pay 75% more than entry—experience is well rewarded.
Slight employer advantage
Competitive market. Focus on fit and differentiation over compensation.
Hiring leverage
Lean employer
Wage leverage
Limited
Mobility
Moderate
Who this leverage applies to
Weaker for:
Entry-level candidates, Career switchers
Where to negotiate
Base salary
Sign-on bonus
Title / level
Remote flexibility
Scope & responsibility
Start date / PTO
Likely Possible Unlikely
Focus on demonstrating unique fit and value.
Does this path compound?
Job Growth →
⚡
High churn
Growth, flat pay
🚀
Compound
Growth + pay upside
⚠️
Plateau
Limited growth
⭐
Specialize
Experts earn more
Pay Upside →
Expertise pays off
Limited new roles, but specialists earn significantly more.
-1%
10yr growth
Most openings come from retirements and turnover, not new positions.
A bachelor's degree is typically expected.
Typical: Bachelor's degree
Openings come from turnover, not new growth. Differentiate to advance.
Labor data: BLS 2024