IT Systems Engineer Job

Kearsney College, a prominent independent boarding and day school near Durban, is seeking a talented IT Systems Engineer to join their team. This pivotal role involves maintaining and enhancing the College’s IT infrastructure, supporting essential teaching, learning, and administrative functions. If you’re an experienced professional ready to lead on technical issues, manage projects, and guide junior team members, with a strong background in Microsoft, networking, and virtualisation technologies, then this could be an excellent opportunity for you. The application deadline is 08 November 2025.

Kearsney College is located just outside Durban in the picturesque Valley of a Thousand Hills. The College provides an outstanding academic record in IEB Matriculation Examinations and offers a dynamic sporting and cultural experience.

Detailed list of vacancy key details

• Institution name: Kearsney College
• Position: IT Systems Engineer
• Location: Just outside Durban, Valley of a Thousand Hills, South Africa
• Type of institution: Leading independent boarding and day school for boys
• Student demographic: Approximately 650 boys from Grades 8 to 12
• Application closing date: 08 November 2025
• Working hours: Monday to Friday, 07:00 to 15:30 (some after-hours work may be required)
• Vacancy source link: IT Systems Engineer Vacancy at Kearsney College

Simple summary of the vacancy

Kearsney College is looking for an IT Systems Engineer who will be crucial in looking after and improving the school’s technology systems. This person will be responsible for planning, setting up, and supporting various technology solutions that help with teaching, learning, and day-to-day operations. It’s a leadership role too, as the engineer will be the go-to person for complex technical problems, will manage IT projects from start to finish, and will mentor less experienced members of the IT team. A key part of the job is making sure all systems are secure, reliable, and can grow with the College’s needs.

The role involves a range of duties including designing and maintaining the IT infrastructure, gathering requirements for new projects, coordinating with staff and external suppliers for smooth service, and keeping detailed records of all IT work. Monitoring systems for compliance, security, and efficiency is also vital, as is ensuring that the College’s IT policies and data protection standards are met. The successful candidate will also provide reports and suggestions for how IT systems can be improved.

Candidates should have solid experience as a senior IT systems engineer or team leader, ideally within an educational setting or a large organisation. They need to be highly skilled in areas like Microsoft Windows Server and Azure platforms, Microsoft 365 administration, Active Directory, networking (routing, switching, security, wireless), virtualisation technologies (like Hyper-V or VMware), CCTV and access control systems, and Veeam Backup. Familiarity with ITIL, ISO27001, and data protection best practices is also important. The College is looking for someone with strong problem-solving skills, a service-oriented approach, a dedication to ongoing learning, and excellent leadership qualities to build a positive team environment.

How to apply for this post

• Prepare your comprehensive CV.
• Send your CV via email to [email protected].
• Ensure the subject line of your email clearly states: “IT Systems Engineer”.
• Submit your application by the closing date: 08 November 2025.
• Please note that Kearsney College reserves the right not to appoint a candidate and an application does not guarantee an interview. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear back within 21 days, you should assume your application has been unsuccessful.
• By applying, you consent to Kearsney College using your personal details for the purpose of this application, in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act.

Potential candidate questions and advice

Q: What are the core responsibilities of this IT Systems Engineer role?

A: This role is all about maintaining and improving Kearsney College’s IT infrastructure. You’ll be planning, implementing, and supporting tech solutions for teaching, learning, and admin. Expect to lead on complex issues, manage IT projects, and mentor junior team members, ensuring all systems are secure, reliable, and can grow with the College.

Q: What specific technical skills are they looking for?

A: They need someone with strong expertise in Microsoft Windows Server & Azure, Microsoft 365 administration, Active Directory, Group Policy, and Certificate Services. Networking skills (routing, switching, security, wireless) are crucial, as is experience with virtualisation (Hyper-V, VMware), CCTV, Access Control Systems, and Veeam Backup.

Q: Is experience in an educational environment essential?

A: While “ideally in an education or enterprise environment” is preferred, strong senior IT systems engineer or team leader experience in any enterprise setting is valuable. Highlight any experience working with diverse user groups or supporting a dynamic environment.

Q: What are the expected working hours, and is there flexibility?

A: The standard hours are Monday to Friday, 07:00 to 15:30. However, the vacancy clearly states that “some after-hours work may be required”, so be prepared for occasional work outside of these times, especially for system maintenance or critical issues.

Q: How can I make my application stand out?

A: Beyond listing your technical skills, emphasise your leadership and mentoring qualities, your commitment to continuous learning and innovation, and your service-oriented mindset. Showcase how you’ve used technology to “enable staff and pupils” in previous roles, even if not in an education setting.

Q: What soft skills are important for this position?

A: Kearsney College values professionalism, approachability, strong troubleshooting and analytical skills, and the ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment. They’re looking for someone who can foster a positive team culture.

Q: What industry best practices are mentioned?

A: Familiarity with ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library), ISO27001 (Information Security Management), and general data protection standards is preferred. Mention any certifications or experience you have with these frameworks.

Q: What is the closing date for applications?

A: The deadline for submitting your application is 08 November 2025.

Q: What should I do if I don’t hear back after applying?

A: Kearsney College advises that if you are not contacted within 21 days of submitting your application, you should assume it has been unsuccessful.

Q: Where can I find out more about Kearsney College?

A: You can visit their official website for more information about the school, its values, and its offerings: www.kearsney.com.

Q: Are there other job opportunities available at schools?

A: Yes, you can often find a range of positions beyond IT at educational institutions. For more options, including various teaching jobs, you might want to explore job boards dedicated to the education sector.

Institution Details:
Website: www.kearsney.com
Address: Kearsney College, located on the edge of the Valley of a Thousand Hills, just outside Durban.