Hardware & Network Administrator

About Us

Angata Sugar Mills Ltd. (ASML) is a pioneering force in Kenya's sugar industry, dedicated to transforming the way sugar is produced and distributed. As a greenfield initiative, ASML prioritizes cutting-edge technology and best practices to ensure efficient and sustainable sugar production from sugarcane. Our mission is to empower local farmers, boost the regional economy, and deliver high-quality sugar while upholding our core values of integrity, ingenuity, and service.

About the Job

We are seeking a
Hardware & Network Administrator
to join our IT team in Transmara, reporting directly to the
Head of IT
. This role is essential to maintaining robust and secure IT infrastructure across both our factory site and remote field operations. You will be responsible for the installation, configuration, and maintenance of network hardware and systems that support all departments including Operations, Cane, Finance & Administration, and Sustainability.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring network reliability, optimizing performance, and supporting daily IT operations in a dynamic, agriculture-based manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Network & Systems Maintenance
  : Install, configure, and maintain network infrastructure including routers, switches, firewalls, computers, printers, and CCTV systems across factory and field sites.
• Connectivity Across Operations
  : Ensure reliable LAN/WAN and wireless connectivity at critical points including weighbridges, field stations, the nucleus cane farm, and administrative offices.
• Troubleshooting & Optimization
  : Diagnose and resolve network issues and outages promptly; collaborate with system vendors and network architects to optimize uptime and performance.
• Security Management
  : Administer firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS systems, and ensure data and network security across all access points and devices.
• System Monitoring
  : Utilize tools like SolarWinds or Nagios to monitor system health, bandwidth usage, and network performance; proactively resolve potential bottlenecks or risks.
• Infrastructure Documentation
  : Maintain comprehensive documentation of network configurations, hardware inventories, access controls, and support protocols.
• Hardware Lifecycle Management
  : Oversee deployment, maintenance, and replacement of IT hardware including servers, storage devices, network components, and user equipment.
• Support & Access Management
  : Provide end-user support for hardware and connectivity issues; manage secure access and remote connectivity for staff as needed.
• Cane Operations Support
  : Ensure connectivity and IT functionality across nucleus cane farm sites and outgrower engagement areas to support data collection, logistics, and traceability.
• Compliance & Risk Management
  : Implement best practices for IT compliance, disaster recovery, and risk mitigation in alignment with ASML's operational and regulatory frameworks.
• Other Duties
  : Participate in cross-functional projects or support initiatives as assigned by the Head of IT.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience in network and systems administration.
• Relevant certification (e.g., CCNA, Network+, or equivalent).
• Strong troubleshooting skills with experience in computer hardware, printers, CCTV systems, and network equipment.
• Working knowledge of networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency with firewalls, VPNs, and IDS/IPS systems.
• Familiarity with Windows Server, Linux, and Active Directory environments.
• Experience using network monitoring tools such as SolarWinds or Nagios.
• Basic scripting ability (PowerShell, Python, Bash) is an added advantage.
• Prior experience supporting IT systems in an agricultural or manufacturing environment.