System Administrator (Windows/AD/Hyper-V)

Job Title

System Administrator (Windows/AD/Hyper-V)

Job Location

Remote, USA

Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future

Role Overview

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.

What you’ll need to succeed (required skills)

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.

We're excited to meet people who share our mission and can make an impact in a variety of ways. Don't hesitate to apply, even if you only meet the minimum requirements listed. Think about your transferable experiences and unique skills that make you stand out as someone who can bring new and exciting things to this role.

Disclaimer

The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

“Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.