System Administrator (Windows/AD/Hyper-V)

We are seeking an experienced Infra Technology Specialist with strong expertise in Windows Server administration, Active Directory, and virtualization (Hyper-V). The role involves managing enterprise server environments, ensuring system stability, security compliance, and supporting L3-level escalation activities.

Mandatory Compliance Requirements

• The associate will be supporting critical Energy sector projects requiring security clearance.

• Must be physically residing in the United States and eligible for security clearance.

• Willingness to undergo security clearance process , including background verification, drug testing, and related checks.

Salary and Other Compensation:

The annual salary for this position is between $60,000 to $85,000 depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.

In this role, you will

• Administer and support Windows Server environments (2012/2016/2019/2022) including installation, configuration, migration, and upgrades.

• Manage Active Directory infrastructure, including domain controllers, replication, Group Policies, and DNS/DHCP services.

• Perform Active Directory recovery operations and maintain AD health including replication and failover readiness.

• Administer and troubleshoot Microsoft Hyper-V environments (VM provisioning, virtual networking, replication, and performance tuning).

• Implement and maintain system security, including patching, antivirus tools, and vulnerability remediation.

• Manage enterprise services such as DFS, Print Services, AD Certificate Services, and File Servers.

• Monitor infrastructure performance, troubleshoot complex issues, and ensure availability, reliability, and SLA adherence.

• Execute backup, disaster recovery, and business continuity strategies across the environment.

• Conduct hardware and OS troubleshooting across enterprise-grade infrastructure (Dell/HP/Cisco UCS).

• Maintain detailed technical documentation, SOPs, and contribute to process improvements and automation initiatives.

• 7+ years of experience in Windows System Administration (L3 Support).

• Strong expertise in:

• Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP

• Windows Server (2016/2019/2022/2025)

• Hyper-V (mandatory) - administration, troubleshooting, and performance optimization

• Experience with:

• AD Domain Controller replication and recovery

• File & Print Server management

• Windows Security and patch management

• Backup and disaster recovery solutions

• Hands-on experience with:

• OEM hardware (Dell / HP / Cisco UCS)

• Multiple patching and antivirus tools

• Windows registry configuration and troubleshooting

• Strong knowledge of:

• System monitoring and performance tuning

• Incident, problem, and change management processes

• Proven ability to troubleshoot:

• Server performance issues

• Security vulnerabilities

• Virtualization-related failures

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

Preferred Skills

• Experience with VMware (ESXi, vCenter) or other virtualization platforms (Nutanix).

• Exposure to cloud infrastructure monitoring and troubleshooting.

• Knowledge of Linux patching (Ubuntu / RHEL).

• Experience working in multi-tenant environments.

• Familiarity with enterprise ticketing tools and SLA-driven operations.

Technical Environment

• Windows Server (2012-2025)

• Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, DFS, GPO

• Hyper-V (Primary), VMware/Nutanix (Optional)

• Enterprise hardware platforms (Dell, HP, Cisco UCS)

• Backup, DR, Security & Monitoring tools

Benefits: Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance

• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off

• 401(k) plan and contributions

• Long-term/Short-term Disability

• Paid Parental Leave

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Work model:

At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is a remote role in USA.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you’re engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.