Server Administrator III

Address We're always looking for bright individuals to join our growing organization. As a part of the First Financial Family, we will invest in your development and provide a dynamic work environment where you're challenged, valued and empowered every day. We strive to be the best destination for the industry's top talent, creating a diverse, collaborative workplace that celebrates innovation and change. We are one team, working together to get things done.

Job Description:

Office Location:

Abilene, Texas, United States •This is an in-office position located in Abilene, Texas.

SCOPE/CONTACTS

The Server Administrator is responsible for the day-to-day administration, maintenance, and optimization of the organization's Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 environments. This role manages hybrid cloud and on‑premises infrastructure, ensures system reliability, security, and compliance, and works closely with Cybersecurity and other IT teams to support business operations. The Cloud Administrator plays a key role in automation, continuous improvement, and operational excellence across cloud and infrastructure platforms.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Architect, design, and optimize enterprise Windows Server, Azure, and Microsoft 365 environments to meet performance, scalability, security, and availability requirements. Establish and govern server, cloud, and hybrid infrastructure standards, baselines, and configuration hardening guidelines. Lead hybrid identity architecture and strategy using Microsoft Entra ID, Conditional Access, identity governance, and privileged access management. Design and oversee enterprise backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity solutions; validate recovery objectives through testing and review. Perform advanced troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and remediation for complex system and infrastructure issues. Lead infrastructure automation and infrastructure-as-code initiatives using Terraform, PowerShell, Ansible, or similar tools; define best practices and patterns. Partner with Cybersecurity to design, implement, and maintain security controls aligned with regulatory and audit requirements (e.g., FFIEC, SOC, ISO). Own infrastructure-related audit responses, including evidence collection, remediation planning, and validation of corrective actions. Provide escalation-level support and guidance during major incidents, outages, and high-risk changes. Mentor, coach, and provide technical oversight to Server Administrators I and II; support cross-training and skills development. Research, evaluate, and recommend emerging technologies, platform enhancements, and modernization initiatives to improve reliability, security, and cost efficiency.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. 6-10+ years of progressively responsible experience in server and cloud administration roles. Deep expertise in Windows Server, Active Directory, Azure, and Microsoft 365. Strong experience designing secure hybrid and cloud-native architectures. Advanced proficiency in scripting, automation, and infrastructure-as-code. Proven ability to lead complex technical initiatives and act as an escalation point.

Preferred Qualifications:

Advanced Microsoft certifications (e.g., Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Microsoft Identity and Access Administrator). Experience leading infrastructure in regulated financial, healthcare, or critical environments. Experience with enterprise monitoring platforms, vulnerability management, and cost optimization programs. The above statements reflect the general details considered necessary to decide the principal functions of the job identified and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all work requirements that may be inherent in the job. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c) What Makes Us Unique? You. Since 1890, First Financial has been serving the financial needs of customers in every neighborhood, just like yours. Not just through good times, but during difficult years too. We survived the Great Depression, the collapse of the Texas economy in the 1980s, and the Great Recession. Throughout it all, we remain a place of stability and trust for our customers. While other banks have come and gone, First Financial continues to grow through acquisitions, new branches, and the expansion of our services. It goes without saying, First Financial is not your everyday bank. Our "One Bank, Multiple Regions" concept combines the best of "Big Bank" customer benefits with the local decision making and involvement of a community bank. The Company includes multiple banking regions with 79 convenient locations throughout Texas, and we offer convenient banking options with a local, personal touch. And because we're one bank, you can visit any of our locations and receive the same friendly service. Much of our success comes from the lifelong relationships we've built with people just like you. Providing excellent customer service and education is the focus of everything we do. Our customer education includes training to understand how to improve credit, apply for a home loan, and utilize our products and services. Every day we're here to help you make sound financial decisions. And don't be surprised if you step through the door and see a familiar face. Many of our employees are leaders in the community. After all, being involved with the community is an important part of who we are. Discover for yourself how at First Financial, it's You First.