Jeff Thomason
Blairsville,GA
Summary
Experienced Network Support Technician and Jr. System Administrator with over 20 years of expertise in managing a wide range of technology. Committed to delivering exceptional customer service support in diverse user environments. Skilled in providing technical guidance and mentorship to junior technicians. Known for innovative problem-solving abilities, consistently developing effective technology solutions for clients while fostering strong working relationships. Thrives on effective communication and meticulous attention to detail.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
System Administrator
Young Harris College
08.2023 - Current
- Simplified troubleshooting processes by creating detailed documentation for system configurations, procedures, and best practices.
- Provisioned new software and hardware for use, following established security policies.
- Managed user access rights to maintain a high level of information security while ensuring appropriate levels of accessibility for authorized personnel. Setup ManageEngine AD Plus Manager software and server for this task.
- Implemented a consistent MS patching schedule for Windows servers, ensuring timely updates each month. Using ManageEngine Patch Manager program.
- Performed regular software updates on Dell Power-Edge servers, ensuring all components such as BIOS, IDRAC versions, and system drivers were up-to-date.
- Administered Broadcom/VMware virtual environment by installing updates, troubleshooting errors, and monitoring resource usage. Basic day to day maintenance.
- Created a robust backup strategy using Veeam 3-2-1 principles, optimizing data protection. Which includes a weekly, monthly and yearly tape backup routine.
- Created, maintained, and set up all virtual servers in the Broadcom/VMware environment, ensuring seamless server functionality.
- Cultivated strong working relationships with a diverse range of tech support vendors, including Microsoft, Veeam, Intervision, and Broadcom.
- Maintained and upgraded network management tools on DC servers, ensuring optimal performance of DNS, DHCP, Active Directory, and GPO.
- Managed MS 365 and Azure platforms, working with vendors to successfully set up SSO for their applications.
- Resolved helpdesk tickets promptly, ensuring minimal downtime for users.
- Supported colleagues with system-related inquiries, enhancing overall productivity. Providing a another resource or support for team members.
JR System Administrator
The Dixie Group
07.2019 - 08.2023
- Allocating, maintaining, tracking, and troubleshooting of IT equipment used in production operations facilities.
- Installation of new hardware products, testing new equipment and software upgrades while developing work plans and preparing end-user documentation.
- HP ProLiant server hardware support, ESXi, HP ILO firmware and VMware server administration.
- Monitor, configure and administrate Fortinet firewalls, Ruckus Wireless Controllers, Cisco switches and general network support.
- Responsible for daily VM server administration. Admin to 130 plus VM server environment using V-center for administration.
- Supporting associates from multiple production locations in North Ga and Alabama area, as well as remote customers.
- Daily network monitoring using Red Canary, Carbon Black and Sophos endpoint utilities.
- User of Office 365, MS Teams. Extensive user of Track-It ticketing system.
- Active Directory and Group Policy Administration. Work with DNS and DHCP configurations for each location.
- Acting Project Manager for various expansions, upgrades or improvements. While developing great working relationships with support vendors for all locations.
- Part of ongoing on-call rotation for after hours support.
- Responsible for Training onsite techs while being a resource of support in break fix environment.
- Worked closely with infrastructure staff and departmental decision makers to identify, recommend, develop and implement cost-effective technology solutions.
- Administrate and monitor Synology, Hitachi and Exagrid NAS devices for backups and file storage.
- Work very closely with Veeam Backup software for disaster recovery, data and server backups.
- Managed infrastructure upgrades, analysis and resolution of end user hardware and software issues.
- Participated in team-building activities to enhance working relationships
- Maintained excellent attendance record, consistently arriving to work on time
IT Support Analyst
Lowes Distribution Center
09.2017 - 10.2018
- Provided second level support to resolve product and application problems and exceed customer service standards
- Resolved or escalated challenges to appropriate resources for prioritization
- Performed tracking, documentation, and status of service requests
- Monitored resolution of problems to achieve closure
- Performed setup and maintenance of computer systems by installing and upgrading hardware and software
- Interacted with third party hardware and/or software vendors and initiated vendor services
- Replaced over 75 printers, workstations and other hardware with Evergreen refresh policy
- Provided administrative support for Cisco phone system and voice mail systems
- Coordinated meetings with multiple vendors; resolving service failures or issues.
- Managed service follow-up communications, confirming satisfactory resolution of customers' service requests via email and phone.
- Answered customer support inquiries via specialized ticket tracking platforms.
- Supported users with software, hardware and network issues
Telecommuter/PC Support Technician
Blue Cross And Blue Shield Of Tennessee
10.2015 - 08.2017
- Used diagnostic tools to identify hardware failures and replace non-functional components.
- Explained technical information in clear terms to non-technical individuals to promote better understanding.
- Responded to support requests from end users and patiently walked individuals through basic troubleshooting tasks.
- Performed maintenance on all PC hardware, printers, telephones, cell phones, and peripherals used throughout company, and facilitated warranty and service records.
- Maintained regular contact with hardware vendors for repairs and performed non-warranty service as required.
- Ordered PC parts and components to maintain adequate inventory.
- Contributed, subject matter expert (SME) to development, implementation and maintenance of PC-related policies, procedures, and standards that conform with organizational objectives and IT industry best practices.
- Documented technical issues and resolution, in accordance with corporate standards.
Technology Support Specialist
Mannington Commercial
03.2001 - 09.2015
- Resolved diverse range of technical issues across multiple systems and applications for customers and end-users across various time zones.
- Interacted with over 1000 users with varying skills and job functions in Windows 7 and Windows 10 environment.
- Set up workstations/laptops for new employees; use Symantec imaging software, use easy transfer tool to transfer data, configured systems, ensure network connectivity, install appropriate software and test hardware functionality before deployment.
- Converted all twin-ax AS400 technology equipment to Gigabit Ethernet technology for SAP implementation which included workstations, printers, switches and scanning devices.
- Configured and deployed Cisco network 3500 series switches for various areas of production, expansion projects and switch replacements or upgrades.
- Diagnosed LAN Cisco switches and other connectivity issues.
- Provided all database information for Shore-Tel conversion from Nortel phone system, this included all call flow menus, voicemail boxes, phone extensions and recorded greetings.
- Researched, planned and implemented wireless Cisco network solution for front office areas and meeting room areas which provided more accessible network for all users.
- Directed wireless project with Intermec Technologies engineers in planning, documenting and installing wireless network solution for warehouse areas.
- Provided inventory tracking solutions allowing managers to document accurate inventory.
- Traveled throughout Southeast performing computer replacements and network upgrades.
- Provided support for various hardware technologies such as Zebra thermal printers, Shore-Tel.
- VOIP phones, various manufactures of Laser-jet printers, IGEL thin clients, Kronos time clocks, Intermec scanners, Dell and Lenovo computers.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Sports Management With Minor in General Business
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA08.1991
Skills
- Preventative Maintenance
- Server Maintenance
- Backup management
- Technical Support and Assistance
- IT documentation
- Network Security Management
- System upgrades
- System monitoring
- Technical support
- System updates
- User management
Certification
- CompTIA Network+, A+, Security + and Server +
- MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional)
- MTA: Networking Fundamentals
- CWNA
- CWNP
- VMware VCTA-DCV
- Azure Fundamentals
- MS 365 Fundamentals
Timeline
System Administrator
Young Harris College
08.2023 - Current
JR System Administrator
The Dixie Group
07.2019 - 08.2023
IT Support Analyst
Lowes Distribution Center
09.2017 - 10.2018
Telecommuter/PC Support Technician
Blue Cross And Blue Shield Of Tennessee
10.2015 - 08.2017
Technology Support Specialist
Mannington Commercial
03.2001 - 09.2015
Bachelor of Science - Sports Management With Minor in General Business
Georgia Southern University
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