Assistant IT Manager

Company: Saudi Elan
Location: Al Khobar, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia
Position: IT Assistant / IT Systems Administrator
Reports to: IT Manager
Experience Required: 4-8 Years in IT Management & Specialized Systems

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced IT professional to serve as IT Assistant, responsible for managing the complete IT infrastructure and operations of our organization. This role requires a seasoned IT specialist with 4-8 years of hands-on experience who can independently handle all technical aspects while the IT Manager focuses on strategic planning and business alignment.

Key ResponsibilitiesInfrastructure & Systems Management

• Design, implement, and maintain complete IT infrastructure from ground up
• Manage servers (physical and virtual), storage systems, and backup solutions
• Configure and maintain enterprise-level networking infrastructure
• Implement and manage virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper-V)
• Oversee cloud infrastructure (Azure, AWS) and hybrid environments
• Monitor system performance and implement proactive maintenance schedules
• Manage IT hardware procurement, installation, and lifecycle management

Microsoft 365 & Cloud Services Administration

• Complete deployment and configuration of Microsoft 365 environment
• Manage all M365 services:
• Exchange Online (email, calendars, distribution lists)
• SharePoint Online (document management, intranet)
• Microsoft Teams (collaboration, telephony)
• OneDrive for Business
• Power Platform (Power Apps, Power Automate, Power BI)
• Azure Active Directory (identity and access management)
• Microsoft Defender and security services
• Optimize license management and recommend cost-effective add-ons:
• Microsoft 365 E3/E5 licensing strategies
• Azure AD Premium features
• Microsoft Intune for device management
• Advanced Threat Protection
• Compliance and eDiscovery tools
• Implement conditional access policies and multi-factor authentication
• Configure data loss prevention (DLP) and information protection policies
• Manage mobile device management (MDM) and application management

IT Policy Development & Governance

• Develop comprehensive IT policies including:
• Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
• Information Security Policy
• Data Protection and Privacy Policy
• Email and Communication Policy
• Remote Work and BYOD Policy
• Password and Access Control Policy
• Incident Response and Business Continuity Plans
• Create standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all IT processes
• Ensure compliance with Saudi Data Protection Laws and international standards
• Implement IT governance framework aligned with COBIT or ITIL
• Conduct regular IT audits and risk assessments

SAP ERP Administration (Highly Preferred)

• Support SAP implementation, configuration, and administration
• Manage SAP modules (FI/CO, MM, SD, HR, or others)
• Handle SAP Basis administration tasks
• Configure SAP user roles, authorizations, and security
• Perform SAP system monitoring, performance tuning, and troubleshooting
• Coordinate SAP upgrades, patches, and support packs
• Liaise with SAP consultants and support vendors
• Train end-users on SAP functionalities
• Generate SAP reports and dashboards

Security & Compliance

• Implement comprehensive cybersecurity measures
• Configure and maintain firewalls, IDS/IPS, and security appliances
• Manage endpoint protection and antivirus solutions
• Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing
• Implement email security, spam filtering, and phishing protection
• Manage SSL certificates and encryption protocols
• Monitor security logs and respond to security incidents
• Ensure compliance with ISO 27001, NIST, or similar frameworks

Network Administration

• Design and maintain LAN/WAN infrastructure
• Configure and manage switches, routers, and wireless access points
• Implement VPN solutions for remote access
• Manage VLAN segmentation and network security
• Configure and maintain DNS, DHCP, and network services
• Optimize network performance and bandwidth management
• Troubleshoot network connectivity issues

Database Management

• Administer SQL Server, MySQL, or Oracle databases
• Perform database backup, recovery, and maintenance
• Optimize database performance and queries
• Manage database security and user access
• Implement database replication and high availability

Help Desk & User Support

• Provide Tier 2/3 technical support to all staff
• Troubleshoot complex hardware and software issues
• Manage IT ticketing system and SLA compliance
• Conduct user training sessions on IT systems and tools
• Create user documentation and knowledge base articles

Vendor & Asset Management

• Manage relationships with IT vendors and service providers
• Negotiate contracts and service level agreements
• Oversee IT procurement and budget management
• Maintain IT asset inventory and lifecycle tracking
• Coordinate with external consultants for specialized projects

Disaster Recovery & Business Continuity

• Develop and maintain disaster recovery plans
• Implement backup solutions (on-premises and cloud)
• Test recovery procedures regularly
• Ensure high availability of critical systems
• Document emergency response procedures

Required Qualifications & Experience Essential Requirements

Experience:

• Minimum 8-10 years of progressive experience in IT management and administration
• At least 5 years of hands-on experience with Microsoft 365 administration
• Proven experience in designing and implementing IT infrastructure from scratch
• 3+ years of experience in network administration and security
• Demonstrated experience in IT policy development and governance
• Experience managing enterprise-level IT environments (100+ users)

Technical Skills:

Microsoft Technologies (Expert Level Required):

• Microsoft 365 (full suite administration)
• Exchange Online/On-Premises
• SharePoint Online/On-Premises
• Active Directory and Azure AD
• Microsoft Intune and Endpoint Manager
• Windows Server (2016/2019/2022)
• PowerShell scripting for automation
• Azure cloud services

Networking & Infrastructure:

• TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN protocols
• Cisco/HP/Dell networking equipment
• Firewall configuration (Fortinet, Palo Alto, Cisco ASA)
• Load balancing and high availability
• Wireless network deployment
• Network monitoring tools

Virtualization & Cloud:

• VMware vSphere or Microsoft Hyper-V
• Cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud)
• Hybrid cloud environments
• Container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes) - Plus point

Security:

• Cybersecurity best practices and frameworks
• Endpoint protection solutions
• Email security and anti-spam solutions
• Encryption and data protection
• Security incident response
• Vulnerability assessment tools

Backup & Recovery:

• Enterprise backup solutions (Veeam, Acronis, or similar)
• Disaster recovery planning and implementation
• Data archiving and retention policies

Database Management:

• SQL Server administration
• Database backup and recovery
• Performance tuning and optimization

Highly Preferred (Strong Advantage)

SAP ERP Experience:

• Minimum 1-2 years of SAP administration or functional experience
• SAP Basis administration knowledge
• Experience with SAP modules:
• SAP FI/CO (Finance & Controlling)
• SAP MM (Materials Management)
• SAP SD (Sales & Distribution)
• SAP HR/HCM (Human Capital Management)
• SAP PP (Production Planning)
• SAP HANA experience is a significant plus
• SAP S/4HANA knowledge is highly valued

Professional Certifications:

Microsoft Certifications (Highly Valued):

• Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
• Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals
• Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate
• MS-900, MS-100, MS-101, MS-500, AZ-104, AZ-500

SAP Certifications:

• SAP Certified Technology Associate - System Administration
• SAP Certified Application Associate (any module)
• SAP HANA certification

Networking Certifications:

• Cisco CCNA or CCNP
• CompTIA Network+
• Fortinet NSE certification

Security Certifications:

• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• ISO 27001 Lead Implementer

Other Valuable Certifications:

• ITIL Foundation or higher
• VMware Certified Professional (VCP)
• CompTIA A+
• Project Management (PMP/PRINCE2) - Plus point

Educational Background

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field
• Master's degree is a plus
• Relevant technical certifications can substitute for formal education

Language & Communication Skills

• Excellent English (written and spoken) - Mandatory
• Arabic proficiency is highly advantageous
• Strong documentation and technical writing skills
• Ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical users
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Personal Attributes

• Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision
• Problem-solver with analytical thinking capabilities
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure
• Proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues
• Strong project management abilities
• Adaptable to changing technologies and business requirements
• Team player with leadership potential
• Customer service oriented mindset
• Willingness to work occasional extended hours for critical issues or projects

Additional Preferences

• Previous experience working in Saudi Arabia or GCC countries
• Understanding of Saudi labor laws and business culture
• Experience in regulated industries (finance, healthcare, manufacturing)
• Familiarity with ERP systems beyond SAP (Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics)
• Experience with IT service management tools (ServiceNow, Jira Service Desk)
• Knowledge of DevOps practices and tools
• Experience with telephony systems (VoIP, PBX, Cisco Call Manager)

What We Offer Compensation Package

• Monthly Salary: SAR 4,000 - 6000
• Negotiable based on experience, certifications, and SAP expertise
• Annual performance-based salary reviews
• Potential for increments based on outstanding performance

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Immigration & Legal:

• Work Visa (Iqama) - Fully company-sponsored
• Visa processing and renewal handled by company
• Work permit and all legal documentation

Accommodation:

• Company-provided accommodation (furnished)
• Or housing allowance (if preferred and agreed upon)
• Utilities may be included (subject to company policy)

Transportation:

• Travel allowance for daily commute
• Or company-provided transportation (depending on location)

Health & Insurance:

• Comprehensive medical insurance covering:
• Inpatient and outpatient services
• Dental coverage
• Optical coverage
• Prescription medications
• Family coverage options may be available
• Annual health check-ups

Leave & Time Off:

• Annual vacation: 30 days per year (as per Saudi Labor Law)
• Public holidays: All Saudi national and religious holidays
• Sick leave: As per Saudi Labor Law
• Emergency leave: For personal/family emergencies
• Ticket allowance: Annual ticket to home country (after completion of 1 year)

Professional Development:

• Training opportunities:
• Sponsored certifications (Microsoft, SAP, Cisco, etc.)
• Attendance at technical workshops and seminars
• Online training courses
• Professional development budget
• Career advancement opportunities within the organization
• Skill enhancement programs
• Access to technical resources and learning platforms

Additional Perks:

• Probation period: 3 months (with full benefits)
• Contract renewal: Based on performance
• Relocation assistance: For initial move to Saudi Arabia
• Mobile phone allowance or company phone
• Internet allowance (if required for remote work)

Working Environment

• Standard working hours: Sunday to Thursday (40-48 hours/week)
• Ramadan hours: Reduced working hours during holy month
• Modern office with the latest IT equipment
• Collaborative work culture
• Supportive management
• Stable organization with growth opportunities

Interested candidates meeting the above qualifications should submit:

• Updated CV/Resume (PDF format preferred)
• Include detailed work history with specific accomplishments
• Highlight Microsoft 365 and SAP experience prominently
• List all relevant certifications with validity dates
• Copies of Certificates:
• Educational certificates
• Professional certifications (Microsoft, SAP, Cisco, etc.)
• Experience letters from previous employers
• Cover Letter addressing:
• Your relevant experience in IT management (8-10 years)
• Specific Microsoft 365 administration experience
• SAP ERP experience (if applicable)
• Why you interested in this position
• Your salary expectations
• Your availability to join
• Professional References:
• Minimum 2 professional references
• Contact details of previous supervisors
• Portfolio (Optional but Recommended):
• Examples of IT projects you've implemented
• Documentation samples
• Case studies of problem-solving

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ﷼4,000.00 - ﷼6,000.00 per month