Principal Network and Systems Administrator

Somavrac Group is a leading platform in logistics and industrial services, operating in Quebec and Ontario, with its headquarters in Trois-Rivières. The group specializes in handling, warehousing, material handling, transformation, transport, and distribution of chemicals for various sectors, including mining, cement plants, energy, pulp and paper, steel/aluminum, chemical and petrochemical, agriculture, food processing, and industrial sectors.

Since its inception, Somavrac Group has experienced remarkable growth thanks to strong and inclusive leadership. Innovation, investment, and technology are key pillars of its growth strategy. The 500 specialists working in its various terminals offer turnkey solutions tailored to the realities and needs of each client.

Safe handling — whether it's bulk solids, bulk liquids, hazardous materials, project cargo, or other goods — is at the core of Somavrac Group's expertise. The company also conducts periodic compliance audits to ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and procedures aimed at protecting the public, employees, and the environment.

Within Somavrac Group, we foster an environment of respect, openness, and inclusion. All forms of discrimination are strictly prohibited. Our teams aspire to reflect the diversity of our employees, customers, and communities we serve.

If you require any special support to facilitate your participation in the recruitment process or the performance of the desired position, please let us know. Accommodations can be made at any stage of the hiring process.

Reporting to the IT Director, the Principal Network and Systems Administrator constitutes the technical pillar of Somavrac's infrastructure across all its terminals and offices. You will be responsible for the design, security, reliability, and performance of the network and server environment that ensures the smooth operation of a multi-site logistics operation running 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Beyond daily operational activities, you will play a concrete role in the company's modernization initiatives, including the implementation of the integrated management software (ERP) and the execution of the multi-year IT roadmap. You will also contribute to strengthening Somavrac's cybersecurity posture by aligning it with a recognized framework.

This is a senior position combining design, deployment, and operations, intended for someone equally comfortable with the architecture of a resilient wide area network (WAN) as with mentoring and supporting more junior team members.

Network Infrastructure

• Design, configure, maintain, and secure LAN, WAN, SD-WAN, VPN, and wireless infrastructures across all terminals, warehouses, ports, and offices, including Wi-Fi coverage of yards and warehouses.
• Manage firewalls, switches, routers, and network segmentation; monitor performance, capacity, and availability, and proactively resolve issues.
• Ensure reliable and secure connectivity between different sites as well as with cloud services and the ERP.

Systems and Infrastructure

• Administer and maintain Windows Server, Active Directory / Microsoft Entra ID, Group Policy Objects (GPO), DNS, DHCP, and file and print services.
• Manage virtualization (VMware and/or Hyper-V), storage, backup, and disaster recovery solutions; regularly perform restoration tests and validate recovery procedures.
• Administer the Microsoft 365 and Azure environment, including Exchange Online, Teams, SharePoint, and identity and license management.
• Provide support for the underlying infrastructure of the ERP platform and business applications, in collaboration with application managers and implementation partners.

Cybersecurity

• Implement and enhance the security posture in accordance with a recognized framework (e.g., NIST CSF 2.0), with a proactive, identity-centric approach.
• Manage endpoint protection, multi-factor authentication (MFA), conditional access policies, email security, patch management, and vulnerability management; track and remediate findings.
• Participate in incident response, security monitoring, access reviews, and audit and compliance requirements.

Projects and Modernization

• Actively contribute to the IT roadmap initiatives — ERP modernization, site connectivity, cloud migration, network segmentation, and infrastructure renewal — from planning to implementation.
• Document standards, architecture, configurations, and operational procedures; maintain up-to-date asset inventory and configuration documentation.

Operations and Team

• Serve as the primary escalation point for complex incidents related to networks, servers, and security.
• Provide mentorship and technical support to the IT support team and more junior members.
• Manage relationships with vendors, carriers, and managed service providers, ensuring adherence to agreed-upon service levels.
• Participate in on-call rotations to support a 24/7 operational environment.

Qualifications

• Diploma in college studies or bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• More than 7 years of progressive experience in network and systems administration, including at least 2 years in a senior or technical leadership role.
• Excellent proficiency in Windows Server, Active Directory / Microsoft Entra ID, and Microsoft 365 administration.
• Strong knowledge of networking: routing and switching, firewalls, VPN, SD-WAN, and wireless networks, with experience on platforms such as Cisco, Meraki, Fortinet, or equivalents.
• Practical experience with virtualization (VMware and/or Hyper-V), enterprise backup solutions (e.g., Veeam), and storage management.
• Good understanding of cloud infrastructures, ideally Microsoft Azure.
• Practical understanding of cybersecurity principles and controls.
• Scripting and automation skills, particularly with PowerShell.
• Bilingual (French and English), both spoken and written, required to support sites and personnel located in Quebec and Ontario.
• Valid driver's license and availability to travel between the company's various terminal sites.

Skills

• Relevant certifications such as CCNA/CCNP, Microsoft Azure or Windows Server certifications, Fortinet NSE, CompTIA Security+, or information security certifications like CISM or CRISC.
• Experience supporting an ERP infrastructure and participating in ERP system modernization projects.
• Knowledge of multi-site environments in industrial, logistics, transportation, or terminal and port operations sectors.
• Experience or knowledge of operational technology (OT) systems and industrial systems, as well as IT/OT network segmentation practices.
• Experience working within a recognized cybersecurity framework, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0.

Benefits

• Dental Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Supplementary Health Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Equal Contribution to RÉER
• Employee Assistance Program
• On-site Parking
• Casual Dress Code

Education

• DEC (Required)

Experience

• Network Administration: 7 years (Required)
• Location: On-site