IT Systems Administrator

About MSF

Doctors without Borders (MSF) Southern Africa is a global network of principled professionals who specialise in medical humanitarian work driven by our common humanity and guided by medical ethics. We work together in teams, small and large, to respond to the medical needs of people affected by conflict, disasters, epidemics and those excluded from healthcare.

Doctors Without Borders team members are on the ground, working directly, every day. We bear witness and describe what is happening, to raise awareness about the experiences of the people we assist and the situations where we work. We alert the public to emerging crises, acute emergencies and serious challenges, such as lack of access and exclusion from healthcare – and to mobilise support for MSF’s work and social mission, provoking change.

Today, MSF is present in more than 70 countries, where thousands of MSF doctors, nurses, logisticians, water-and-sanitation experts, and other medical and non-medical professionals work together to bring essential health services to people caught in humanitarian crises. MSF South Africa is in Johannesburg with an office in Cape Town too. MSF SA is governed by the MSF Southern Africa Association, which is made up of more than 300 members from seven countries in the region.

Location: Johannesburg (with support to Cape Town and remote locations)

Reporting Line: Reports to the IT Manager

Position level: 5
Works closely with: IT Officer, other MSF ICT teams, External Vendors

Purpose of the Role

The Systems Administrator is responsible for the availability, security, and performance of MSF Southern Africa’s IT infrastructure and core systems. The role ensures stable and secure server, network, endpoint, and cloud services while supporting digital transformation initiatives and organisational growth.

The position provides advanced technical administration, escalated user support, and infrastructure oversight, complementing the IT Officer role and contributing to MSF’s global ICT standards, security frameworks, and operational requirements.

1. Key Accountabilities and Responsibilities

1.1 Systems and Server Administration

Administer and maintain Windows Server environments, including:

Active Directory

Group Policy

DNS and DHCP

File and print services

Maintain accurate technical documentation, system diagrams, and configuration records.

Support and automate office productivity tools and workflows where applicable.

Provide advanced (Tier 2/3) technical support and mentorship to the IT Officer.

 1.2 Network, Connectivity, and Security Operations

Configure, manage, and maintain network security infrastructure, including:

Fortinet FortiGate firewalls

VPNs and secure remote access

Network segmentation and access control

Plan, monitor, and maintain LAN/WAN infrastructure to meet performance, resilience, and security requirements.

Administer endpoint security and compliance using Microsoft Intune and Microsoft Defender.

Enforce user access controls, least-privilege principles, and data protection policies.

Monitor security alerts, suspicious activity, and compromised accounts, and support incident response.

Ensure compliance with MSF global ICT security frameworks and data protection standards.

Support secure video conferencing and hybrid work environments.

 1.3 Cloud, Applications, and Digital Systems Support

Support Microsoft 365 and cloud identity environments (Entra ID / Azure AD).

Assist with cloud and hybrid infrastructure initiatives in collaboration with MSF global ICT teams.

Support the deployment, administration, and technical maintenance of organisational systems such as: ERP systems (e.g. Sage Intacct) and HRIS platforms

Ticketing and service management tools (e.g. Freshservice)

Access control systems

Coordinate with vendors and regional ICT teams on system implementations, upgrades, and integrations.

Provide technical support for organisational events, trainings, and Association activities.

1.4 User Support, Documentation, and Knowledge Management

Provide escalated user support for complex technical issues.

Develop and maintain technical documentation, SOPs, user guides, and training materials.

Contribute to knowledge sharing and documentation within MSF’s Knowledge and Information Management framework.

Support user awareness initiatives related to IT security, acceptable use, and system best practices.

2. Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

2.1 Essential Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.

Minimum 2–4 years’ experience in systems and/or network administration.

2.2 Strong hands-on experience with:

Windows Server and Active Directory

Microsoft 365 and Intune

Networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, VLANs, VPNs)

Experience administering firewalls and network security (Fortinet preferred).

Practical experience with virtualization, endpoint security, and backup solutions.

Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving skills across hardware, software, and network layers.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Good planning, organisation, and time-management skills.

Service-oriented mindset and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

2.2 Desirable Requirements

Professional certifications such as:

Microsoft AZ-104 / AZ-800

Fortinet NSE

CCNA

CompTIA Network+ or Security+

Experience with cloud platforms (Azure).

Exposure to ERP, HRIS, or service management systems.

Experience working in NGOs, humanitarian, or international organisations.

3. Core Competencies

Commitment to MSF principles

Analytical Thinking

Risk and Security Awareness

Decision-Making

Continuous Improvement

Collaboration

Behavioural flexibility

Results and quality orientation

Teamwork and cooperation

Service orientation

4. Working Environment

Office-based with occasional after-hours or on-call support during incidents or major system changes.

Collaboration with regional and international MSF ICT teams.

Exposure to sensitive data requiring high levels of confidentiality and professionalism.

5. The Salary Detail is as follows

Basic Salary R 30 447,00

13th cheque in November

10% additional pension allowance

100% Medical Aid Contribution

Transport allowance

Cell phone Allowance

Work-life balance: Daily flexi-hours and 2 days working from home possible.

Diverse team composition; Collaborate with a global network of talented 
professionals, bringing diverse perspectives and expertise from around the world

Resources needed such as working space, computer, internet, stationery, and other resources will be made available.

5.1 Commitment

Length of commitment: Permanent Contract 

6. Application details:

The vacancy closing date is: 07th of April 2026.

Start date: 01 June 2026

By applying to this position, the applicant confirms they have read, understood and agreed to fully comply with MSF Charter and MSF Behavioral Commitments and Data Privacy Policy.

In line with MSF’s Safeguarding Principles, successful candidates undergo a rigorous vetting process that includes background checks and self-declaration.

If you recognize yourself in this profile, we welcome you to apply directly via the https://msfsa.bamboohr.com/careers/417 Vacancy link. The vacancy can be found on various MSF websites, digital channels and other job boards.

Applicants are required to upload a Letter of Motivation and Curriculum Vitae (in English) as per prescribed formats. Applications missing the motivation letter will not be considered.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

People living with disability are encouraged to apply.

Information

The protection of your personal data is important to MSF. By submitting your application, you consent to MSF using your personal data only for the recruitment process to have all the information and documents necessary to proceed with the recruitment, validation of your application and selection of the most suitable candidate. Your personal data will be treated confidentially. MSF will not use your personal data in any other way, not foreseen for purposes of recruitment.

MSF is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge any application/recruitment fee.

Lately, MSF is a civil society initiative that brings together individuals committed to the assistance of other human beings in crisis. As such MSF is by choice an association. Each individual applying for MSF roles does it out of conviction and is ready to uphold the values and principles of MSF.

MSF values diversity and is committed to create an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, race, colour or ethnic and national origins, religion or belief, or sexual orientation, and all other diversity characteristics.

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