Harvard University·Boston, Massachusetts
The Platform Administrator will support the implementation, operation, and lifecycle management of core infrastructure platforms. Responsibilities include provisioning server operating systems, enforcing configuration baselines, and automating system workflows.
Company Description By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise.
We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.
Why join Harvard Medical School?
Harvard Medical School's mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving health and well-being for all through excellence in teaching and learning, discovery and scholarship, and service and leadership.
You’ll be at the heart of biomedical discovery, education, and innovation, working alongside world-renowned faculty and a community dedicated to improving human health.
This is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to shape the future of medicine.
As a Platform Administrator, you will support the implementation, operation, and lifecycle management of core infrastructure platforms that enable secure, reliable, and efficient technology services across HMS. You will contribute to the provisioning, configuration, and support of server operating systems, configuration enforcement, monitoring, compliance, and infrastructure automation. Working independently and as part of the Platform Infrastructure team, you will ensure systems are well-managed, standards-compliant, and integrated into the broader HMS technology environment. This role involves active participation in projects and day-to-day support, with a strong focus on operational reliability and collaboration across teams. Core Duties: Participate fully in the provisioning, patching, and decommissioning, administration and support of Server operating systems across the infrastructure platform lifecycle. Maintain configuration management tools and enforcing system baselines. Support the administration and integration of identity and policy systems such as Active Directory and Group Policy. Monitor infrastructure systems, respond to alerts, and support compliance reporting processes. Contribute to the automation of system provisioning and configuration workflows. Collaborate with other IT teams to ensure platform services are integrated and reliable. Participate fully in the software development lifecycle for operational scripts and tools. Evaluate and implement improvements to infrastructure systems and services. Contribute to documentation and standard operating procedures. Act as a technical point of contact for internal stakeholders and support team knowledge-sharing. Participate in off-hours on-call rotation. Perform other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications: Minimum of two years’ post-secondary education or relevant work experience.
Previous experience managing server infrastructure platforms. Experience with Windows and Linux server operating systems, lifecycle management, and configuration tools. Working knowledge of Active Directory, Group Policy, and identity integration. Basic experience with monitoring platforms, compliance tools, and system automation. Strong troubleshooting, communication, and collaboration skills. Ability to work collaboratively in a team and adapt to evolving technologies and priorities. Demonstrated service mindset and ability to contribute to a team-oriented environment. Good organizational skills and attention to detail. Willingness to learn and grow technical skills.
Completion of Harvard IT Academy specified foundational courses (or external equivalent) preferred.
Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week. Occasionally required to work outside of normal business hours, and may be contacted during off hours. Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal. #LI-DK1 Work Format Details This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. Salary Grade and Ranges This position is salary grade level 057. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.
Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: Generous paid time off including parental leave Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one Retirement plans with university contributions Wellbeing and mental health resources Support for families and caregivers Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
Candidates must have at least two years of post-secondary education or relevant work experience. Proficiency in Windows and Linux server administration, Active Directory, and configuration management tools is required.
Market context
Platform Administrator roles in Massachusetts are often tied to organizations that need reliable server and identity management support, so demand tends to follow ongoing IT operations and infrastructure maintenance needs. These jobs are competitive because employers usually want hands-on Windows and Linux administration, Active Directory experience, and familiarity with configuration management tools, plus at least two years of post-secondary education or relevant experience. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit, then tailor your application to show specific server and directory services work.