Lead Systems & Network Administrator in Cambridge, Ontario at Canadian Institute for Safety Wellness & Performance CISWP

Job Title: Lead Systems & Network Administrator

Employment Type: Full-time

Reports To: Director of Operations

Salary Range: Typical hiring range $90,000 - $110,000 per annum – 37.5 hours/week

Vacancy Type: Existing Vacancy

Requisition Number: 26-1005

Closing Date: August 4, 2026

About CISWP

The Canadian Institute for Safety, Wellness, and Performance (CISWP) is a leading applied research institute dedicated to advancing innovation in workplace safety, wellness, and performance in Canada by integrating applied research, workforce development, advanced technology, and evidence-informed practices in collaboration with partners to deliver measurable, real-world impact.

Position Summary

The Lead Systems & Network Administrator is responsible for creating, implementing, maintaining, and enhancing the Canadian Institute for Safety, Wellness, and Performance's (CISWP) technology infrastructure.

As the Institute's primary technical resource, this role ensures reliable, secure, and efficient technology services that enable research, education, and business operations. Working closely with operational and laboratory managers, the incumbent leads the development and support of network infrastructure, cloud platforms, end-user technology, cybersecurity, and business systems while helping to establish scalable IT processes and best practices that support the Institute's continued growth.

Work Location and Schedule

• Work must be conducted within Ontario
• Regular schedule: Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours per week (some flexibility required to support field-based workforce)
• On-site at CISWP office located in Cambridge, ON
• Will require travel to other CISWP business locations

Key Responsibilities

IT Infrastructure and Network Operations

• Develop and maintain the Institute's network infrastructure, including local and wireless networks, internet connectivity, firewalls, switches, VPNs, and cloud-based services.
• Manage Microsoft 365, Azure Active Directory, user accounts, licensing, email, file storage, and collaboration tools, recognizing ways to be most effective
• Configure and upgrade servers, workstations, mobile devices, and peripheral equipment.
• Develop, maintain, and enhance a Network Attached Storage (NAS) for the Institute
• Propose new technologies and processes to streamline data storage and security
• Implement and maintain data backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity solutions.
• Maintain IT asset inventories, network documentation, system configurations, and operational procedures.
• Project Integration
• Develop data sharing pathways with external partners
• Co-lead projects developing public-facing dashboards and web interfaces
• Collaborating with other CISWP employees, create an asset management system for IT and research equipment for support the Institute’s initiatives
• Create pathways for data sharing and storage internally

Cyber Security & Information Protection

• Implement and maintain cybersecurity controls, including endpoint protection, multi-factor authentication, access management, and security monitoring.
• Monitor systems for security threats, vulnerabilities, and unusual activity, coordinating remediation as required.
• Support the development and maintenance of IT security policies, standards, and user awareness initiatives.
• Ensure technology practices align with organizational policies, privacy requirements, and industry best practices.

Technical Support & Service Delivery

• Serve as the primary point of contact for IT support, providing timely assistance to employees across multiple locations; providing guidance to co-op or other IT employees
• Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, network, and system issues.
• Support onboarding and offboarding by provisioning equipment, accounts, and system access.
• Develop user guides and provide training to help employees effectively use technology and follow cybersecurity best practices.
• Monitor system performance, troubleshoot technical issues, and proactively identify opportunities to improve reliability and efficiency.

Technology Planning & Vendor Management

• Work with leadership to identify technology solutions that support organizational growth and operational efficiency.
• Create ticket system ensuring an organized employee IT support pathway
• Coordinate with external technology vendors, managed service providers, and software suppliers to implement and support technology services.
• Assist with technology budgeting, software licensing, hardware procurement, and lifecycle planning.
• Recommend improvements to systems, infrastructure, and processes to support the Institute's evolving needs.

Qualifications and Experience

Required Qualifications

• Three-year diploma in Computer Science, Information Technology, Network Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum seven years of progressively responsible experience supporting IT infrastructure, networks, and end-user technology within a professional environment.
• Experience administering Microsoft 365, cloud-based technologies, networking equipment, and cybersecurity tools.
• Experience supporting both Windows-based environments and modern collaboration platforms.
• Experience collaborating and/or leading IT-focused projects
• Strong knowledge of networking principles, including LAN/WAN, wireless networking, VPNs, DNS, DHCP, and firewall technologies.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 administration, Azure Active Directory, endpoint management, and cloud services.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and identify practical, cost-effective solutions.
• Understanding of cybersecurity principles, data protection, backup and disaster recovery, and IT risk management.
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
• Strong customer service, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and comfortable working independently in a growing organization where priorities may evolve

Assets

• Experience within a research institute, post-secondary, healthcare, scientific, innovation, non-profit, or other professional environment is preferred.
• Industry certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Security+, Microsoft, Cisco, Juniper, Aruba, or equivalent are considered an asset.

Why Join CISWP?

• Work on impactful applied research projects
• Collaborate with industry, government, and academic partners
• Support meaningful improvements in workplace health and safety
• Join a collaborative, mission-driven research environment
• Competitive salary, CAAT-pension plan, and comprehensive benefits package

CISWP is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and encourage applications from women, racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, and individuals of diverse gender identities and expressions.