System and Security Administrator

Location: Toronto, ON, Hybrid
Language: English, fluent in written and spoken communication
Background Check Requirement: Successful completion of a criminal background check and compliance with institutional research ethics protocols

About the Opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to support a globally respected research organization operating at the intersection of technology, human rights, and global security. As the System and Security Administrator, you will play a critical role in protecting sensitive research and enabling impactful work that informs policy, law, and public discourse worldwide.

Working within an academic and public-sector research environment, you will collaborate closely with researchers, technologists, and leadership who are deeply committed to ethical practice and innovation. Your expertise will directly support investigations into digital surveillance, privacy, and freedom of expression, ensuring systems are secure, resilient, and trusted.

What’s in it for You

You will join a mission-driven workplace that values integrity, curiosity, and collaboration. This is an environment where learning is continuous, expertise is respected, and your voice matters.

You can expect meaningful work, exposure to complex and evolving security challenges, and the opportunity to influence technology and information security practices in a globally recognized research setting.

Your Responsibilities

• You’ll oversee the daily operation, security, and administration of all networks, servers, and systems supporting the organization.

• In this role, you’ll design, maintain, and monitor UNIX and Linux-based infrastructure, ensuring performance, reliability, and security.

• You’ll implement and enforce information security policies aligned with research ethics and institutional requirements.

• You’ll monitor infrastructure for threats, respond to incidents, and deliver regular security reporting and recommendations.

• You’ll train and support staff on secure computing practices and tools, acting as a trusted technical advisor.

• You’ll collaborate on IT purchasing decisions, vendor performance reviews, and cost estimates.

Skills and Qualifications

• 4+ years of hands-on experience in systems and network security administration.

• Advanced expertise with UNIX and Linux environments such as Debian, Ubuntu, or OpenBSD.

• Strong knowledge of firewalls, intrusion detection, endpoint security, and incident response.

• Experience with scripting and automation tools for system administration and security tasks.

• Solid understanding of TCP/IP networking, server administration, and virtualization platforms.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex security concepts clearly.

Note from the Hiring Manager

“We’re looking for someone who takes pride in protecting sensitive work, enjoys solving complex problems, and wants their expertise to support research that truly makes a difference.”

Why Partner with Altis

If you’ve never worked with a staffing agency before, we make it easy. We work with top employers across Canada who have great jobs to fill, each vetted and verified by our team. When you apply for a job with Altis, we get to know you as a candidate and learn what your strengths are. Then, if you’re a solid match, we handle all the logistics, advocating for you as a candidate for the role, providing access to coaching and connecting you directly with the hiring manager. And rest assured, all our services are free of cost for candidates.

We appreciate the time and effort all applicants invest in their submissions. Please note that only candidates shortlisted for this role will be contacted directly. However, your profile will remain under consideration for future opportunities that align with your experience and career goals. All qualified applicants will receive fair consideration for employment. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities including those who identify as women, members of racialized groups, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. If you require an accommodation, please review our accessibility policy and reach out to our accessibility officer with any questions. Our human recruiters review all applications and always make the final hiring decision. On occasion, we also use AI-assisted tools to help review applications.