Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification And Training
Timeline
Generic
Samuel Owen

Samuel Owen

Las Vegas

Summary

Versatile IT Manager with comprehensive experience in managing diverse teams and deploying technology solutions to drive business operations. Known for strategic problem solving, adept at project management, and skilled in cloud-based systems integration. Leveraged technical expertise to streamline processes, enhance system efficiency, and improve data security in previous positions.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience

Work History

IT MANAGER, HOSPITALITY SYSTEMS

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT
Las Vegas
01.2017 - Current
  • Manage Leadership in the establishment of project scope, technical strategy, cost, budget and Staff support requirements
  • Responsible for smooth functioning and co-ordination of vendors for Hospitality Systems and Applications.
  • Prepare Policy/Procedures for Hotel management and supervisors for new deployed IT applications while delivering exceptional customer service
  • Managed all 28+ Hotel Applications Enterprise Wide (National and International)
  • Skilled in usage of system level profiling tools and network monitoring systems for Hotel application Servers (OpManager, Nagios, BEST1)
  • Managed network infrastructure, including CAT5/6 cabling, wireless networks, network switches, WAN/LAN, domain controller, Active Directory, firewall and VPN applications for Project based deployments
  • Managed all Hospitality Applications servers for both International and National Enterprise (200+) and insured that all servers were PCI compliant (both applications and Server OS)
  • Excellent organizational and prioritization skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills
  • Strong ability to work under pressure to meet and exceed all deadlines
  • Communicated to Senior Management regarding possible hotel system vulnerabilities and introduced and plans to effectively correct issue
  • Managed project deployments, resources assigned to project and worked long flexible hours (weekends, holidays and all shifts) to ensure success of project
  • Oversaw IT infrastructure and operations across multiple departments.
  • Managed IT budget and resource allocation effectively.
  • Developed and implemented IT policies and procedures for compliance.
  • Led team in troubleshooting technical issues and providing support.
  • Coordinated system upgrades and migrations to enhance performance.
  • Mentored junior staff on best practices and technical skills.
  • Evaluated new technologies for potential integration into existing systems.
  • Managed the installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of network systems.
  • Developed and implemented IT policies and procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards.
  • Trained staff members on various aspects of computer usage and software applications.
  • Monitored system performance and identified areas for improvement.
  • Worked closely with vendors to negotiate contracts and select appropriate products or services.
  • Maintained strong knowledge of applicable regulations to guarantee that designs, operations and IT systems met those requirements.
  • Performed regular system audits to identify potential risks or vulnerabilities.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of relevant technologies and equipment used in the organization.
  • Identified opportunities for cost savings through improved efficiency in IT processes.
  • Created detailed documentation for software, hardware, and network configurations.
  • Developed and maintained processes and technology roadmap to achieve business objectives.
  • Coordinated disaster recovery plans to minimize downtime during system outages or malfunctions.
  • Established security protocols to protect data from unauthorized access or modification.
  • Implemented strategies for improving customer service levels through enhanced use of technology.
  • Evaluated emerging trends in information technology to recommend upgrades or improvements.

SERVER/SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT
Las Vegas
03.2011 - 01.2017
  • Management of provisioning, installation/configuration, operation, and maintenance of systems hardware and software and related infrastructure.
  • Participate in technical research and development to enable continuing innovation within the infrastructure.
  • Ensured that all system hardware, operating systems, software systems, and related procedures adhere to organizational values.
  • Assisted the project teams with technical issues in the Initiation and Planning phases of our standard Project Management Methodology which include the definition of needs, benefits, and technical strategy; research & development within the project life-cycle; technical analysis and design; and support of operations staff in executing, testing and rolling-out the solutions.
  • Participation on projects is focused on smoothing the transition of projects from development staff to production staff by performing operations activities within the project life-cycle.
  • Responsible for the following systems and applications; Hotel Key Systems (Saflok, TESA, VING, etc.), Hotel Kiosks (IJWS-It Just Works Software), HotSoS, SkyForce, GuestRev-RMS, Invotech (Wardrobe), Fax Logic, Optio (Forms), CVPS (Valet System), LMS/CMS (I-series), InnCom (In-Room Automation), SpaSoft and Book4Time, TIBA Parking Systems
  • Provided exceptional customer service in fast-paced dining environments.
  • Trained new team members on service standards and operational procedures.
  • Provided excellent customer service to ensure satisfaction.
  • Configured and maintained network equipment to ensure connectivity.
  • Developed backup procedures to protect critical data and systems.
  • Documented system configurations and procedures for reference purposes.
  • Managed, troubleshot, backed up and restored data, operating systems, files, documents and drivers to provide comprehensive systems management and support.
  • Performed preventive maintenance and upgraded systems to improve network, system, and data availability and integrity.
  • Monitored systems performance to identify potential issues and provided solutions as needed.
  • Implemented network services such as DHCP, DNS, Active Directory and Group Policy Objects.
  • Installed, configured, maintained and administered multiple operating systems including Windows Server 2008, 2012, 2016, Linux Ubuntu and Red Hat Enterprise.
  • Participated in projects related to new infrastructure implementations or migrations from legacy platforms.
  • Ensured high availability of all critical systems by implementing redundancy measures like clustering or load balancing technologies.
  • Participated in IT department meetings to identify continuous improvement opportunities and enhance delivery of IT services to users.
  • Increased team productivity and automated repetitive tasks with batch files, PowerShell and VBScript.

SYSTEMS/NETWORK SUPPORT ENGINEER III

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT
Las Vegas
05.2002 - 01.2011
  • Performed hardware, software and network upgrades for nine separate casino properties.
  • Responsible for implementing and maintaining system security and configurations while providing IT support, to include planning, software and hardware configuration to upper management and end-users.
  • Implemented overall worksite support of all Casino Management Systems to include Slot Data Systems (SDS) and MCA/ATM machines.
  • Analyzed information to determine, recommend, and plan layout for type of computers and peripheral equipment modifications to existing systems.
  • Aided in 11 property conversions from simple PC replacement to network IP changes. The renaming of all Library Management Subsystems(LMS) and Casino Management Systems(CMS).
  • Collaborated with IT teams to implement network upgrades and enhancements.
  • Documented network configurations and procedures for future reference and training purposes.
  • Conducted regular system checks to identify and rectify potential vulnerabilities promptly.
  • Trained junior staff on network maintenance practices and troubleshooting techniques.
  • Configured and maintained various network devices such as routers, switches, firewalls.
  • Conducted regular audits of system logs to ensure proper functioning of all systems.
  • Secured network access by installing firewalls, establishing login credentials and maintaining documentation to govern entry.
  • Collaborated with other departments within the organization when needed on projects involving networking infrastructure.
  • Evaluated existing processes related to managing networks resources in order to identify areas needing improvement.
  • Created detailed documentation regarding all aspects of the networks configuration and setup process.
  • Ensured compliance with applicable laws, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures related to network operations.
  • Conferred with professionals to establish network specifications, interface configurations and routing protocols based on workflow, access, information, and security requirements.
  • Evaluated local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) performance data to verify availability and speed, identifying network problems.
  • Conducted workflow analysis, space design or cost comparison analysis.
  • Documented all facets of technology department operations, including network infrastructure, licenses and FAQs, facilitating consistent responses and team operations.
  • Investigated and troubleshot complex network-related problems in a timely manner.
  • Maintained infrastructure performance by monitoring, performance tuning, and troubleshooting surfaced issues.
  • Evaluated system availability, throughput and latency to lead network planning, installation, configuration, and testing.
  • Identified, diagnosed and resolved network problems.
  • Installed and repaired network fiber optic cables, Ethernet cables and other networking cabling and conduits.

SENIOR NETWORK/SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR

LOCKHEED MARTIN
Las Vegas
04.2002 - 01.2010
  • Configured and maintained Dell PowerEdge servers, Cisco Pix 560E Firewall terminals, Cisco 2800 Series T1 Routers and Cisco Catalyst 2950, 3500 and 3650 Switches.
  • Installed and configured more than 50 facility’s workstations/laptops while providing IT support to all end users to ensure efficient system usage.
  • Maintained accurate property management of more than 300 pieces of government equipment and computer technology.
  • Utilized solid communication skills with senior staff, immediate supervisor and / or higher levels of management, by providing work reports of all daily activity.
  • Administers all network accounts using Active Directory (AD).
  • Analyzed the setup and installation of Wireless Access Points (WAP) throughout the company facility that used Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology on several EPA vehicles to track Environmental movement and changes.
  • Assisted with troubleshooting procedures on security devices to include biometric fingerprint readers as well as motion detecting equipment.
  • Maintains overall support of all PC, software upgrades and server based equipment.
  • Assembled and Administer a Virtual Machine Server (VM Ware) that consists of over 8 Terabits of available storage and houses over 30 virtual servers
  • Managed network infrastructure to ensure optimal system performance and reliability.
  • Collaborated with teams to implement security protocols and safeguard sensitive data.
  • Conducted regular system audits to identify vulnerabilities and improve network security.
  • Developed documentation for network configurations and standard operating procedures.
  • Trained staff on best practices for network usage and cybersecurity awareness.
  • Evaluated new technologies to enhance network capabilities and service offerings.
  • Developed scripts to automate network tasks such as backups and patching.
  • Transformed physical computing and networking systems by replacing outdated equipment and modernizing infrastructure.
  • Investigated security threats or vulnerabilities within the network environment.
  • Deployed updates on all networking equipment such as routers, switches.
  • Assisted in developing strategies to improve system reliability, scalability, availability and performance.
  • Maintained and monitored network performance, ensuring systems are secure and up-to-date.
  • Coordinated with vendors for hardware and software procurement and installation services.
  • Implemented policies to ensure compliance with organizational requirements.
  • Reconfigured existing networks when needed in order to optimize performance.
  • Integrated automated monitoring system for network systems, maintaining uninterrupted operations continuity.
  • Identified opportunities for improving operational efficiency through automation.
  • Managed employee access, security roles and permissions.
  • Supported various operating systems and server technologies.
  • Supervised configuration of local area network, wide area network and corporate Internet system.
  • Worked independently while coordinating project work and support functions with other team members.
  • Maintained documentation on configurations and maintenance using component labeling and technical diagrams.
  • Delivered high level of support and maintenance to hardware, software and applications to maximize performance and reduce bottlenecks.
  • Participated in on-call shifts for holidays and weekends in case of system or network-related emergencies.
  • Strengthened networks and infrastructure during outage windows to prevent downtime for essential services.
  • Tracked network and telephony devices for performance and load threshold metering.
  • Provided effective resolutions to issues and escalated problems with knowledgeable support and quality service.
  • Spearheaded server infrastructure development, quality control, staging, and production operations.
  • Liaised with network team to configure, implement, and administer LAN and WAN components.
  • Handled network configurations after hours and on weekends to alleviate downtime and maintain smooth operations.
  • Analyzed intricate server issues and supported large enterprise and business-critical applications.
  • Coordinated with vendors and company personnel to facilitate purchases.

Education

Bachelor of Business -

New York University
Manhattan, New York
05.2004

Technical IT -

Siemens Nixdorf Technical School
Mannheim, Germany
05.1993

Bachelor of Business -

University of Heidelberg
Heidelberg, Germany
06.1994

Skills

I Hard Skills (Technical Skills)

  • Programming Languages: Proficiency in languages such as Python, Java, JavaScript, C, C#, and SQL is crucial for writing code and developing software
  • Data Structures and Algorithms: Understanding data structures and algorithms is essential for creating efficient and scalable code, especially when dealing with large datasets
  • Database Management: Knowledge of databases, including SQL and potentially NoSQL databases, is necessary for managing and interacting with data
  • Version Control: Familiarity with version control systems like Git and platforms like GitHub is vital for managing code changes, collaborating with teams, and tracking project history
  • Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC): A good understanding of the SDLC, including phases like requirements gathering, design, coding, testing, deployment, and maintenance, is crucial for successful software development
  • Testing and Debugging: Software engineers need to be proficient in testing methodologies and debugging tools to identify and fix errors in code
  • Web Development Fundamentals: Knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript frameworks (eg, React, Angular) is highly valuable for developing web applications
  • Cloud Computing and DevOps: Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and DevOps practices like CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery) is increasingly important for modern software development
  • APIs and Web Services: Understanding how APIs work and how to interact with them is crucial for integrating different software components
  • Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): Proficiency in OOP principles helps in creating modular, reusable, and scalable code

II Soft Skills (Non-Technical Skills)

  • Communication: Software developers need to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively within a team, sharing knowledge, and collaborating with others are crucial for project success
  • Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Software engineers are fundamentally problem-solvers and need to be able to analyze issues, identify root causes, and develop effective solutions
  • Adaptability and Continuous Learning: The tech industry is constantly evolving, so the ability to learn new technologies and adapt to change is vital
  • Attention to Detail: Paying close attention to detail helps ensure code quality and prevent errors
  • Time Management: Effective time management is essential for meeting deadlines and prioritizing tasks
  • Creativity: Software development often requires creative thinking to design innovative solutions and address unique challenges
  • Leadership (for senior roles): Leading a team, providing technical direction, and resolving conflicts are important for senior software engineers

Certification And Training

  • Information Assurance - Level II Certified
  • Incident Handling
  • N+ (Network Essentials)
  • Wireless Training
  • TS LAN 500-CS (Optical Multimode and Single-mode Local Area Networks)
  • Ethernet – Termination and Certification
  • CCNA and MCSE
  • Ethical Hacking – Cyber Security
  • Microsoft Active Directory
  • SCRUM Certified

Timeline

IT MANAGER, HOSPITALITY SYSTEMS

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT
01.2017 - Current

SERVER/SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT
03.2011 - 01.2017

SYSTEMS/NETWORK SUPPORT ENGINEER III

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT
05.2002 - 01.2011

SENIOR NETWORK/SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR

LOCKHEED MARTIN
04.2002 - 01.2010

Bachelor of Business -

New York University

Technical IT -

Siemens Nixdorf Technical School

Bachelor of Business -

University of Heidelberg