Jeff Thomason
Blairsville,GA
Summary
Experienced Support Technician and 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
25
25
years of professional experience
1992
1992
years of post-secondary education
8
8
Certifications
Work History
System Administrator
Young Harris College
08.2023 - Current
- Simplified troubleshooting processes by creating detailed documentation for system configurations, procedures, and best practices.
- 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.
- Developed 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. MS 365 Administrator.
- Resolved helpdesk tickets promptly, ensuring minimal downtime for users. Documenting the fixes and instructions.
- 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
- Reduced downtime during system upgrades by carefully planning and executing migration projects.
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 Contractor
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, GASkills
System upgrades
System monitoring
Technical support
System updates
Windows administration
Server management
Backup management
Hardware and software installation
IT documentation
Certification
CompTIA Network+, A+, Security + and Server +
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Accomplishments
Implemented a full backup procedure for virtual server environment.
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 Contractor
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