Operations Technician

SANS Institute

Saudi Arabia

Description

Department: Operations

Location: KSA

Description

To assist in the deployment and support of SANS network and audio-visual systems at live training events in the META region, as well as supporting the live online streaming platforms utilised during these events.

Key Responsibilities

Events & Audio Visual (AV) Operations

  • Assist the Senior or Lead Operations Technician in the setup, configuration, and delivery of SANS training events across the META region.
  • Install and support network infrastructure at events, including router, managed switches, wireless access points and controllers.
  • Set-up and maintain audio-visual equipment including projectors, screens, microphones, speakers, and video conferencing systems (Zoom, Teams Rooms, Webex).
  • Provide on site technical support during events, training sessions and meetings to instructors, TAs, VTAs, and students.
  • Troubleshoot network, AV, and streaming platform issues during live events.
  • Carry out pre-event testing and daily room checks.
  • Support recording, uploading, and validation of course content.
  • Assist with virtual lab environments and VM functionality.
  • Escalate complex technical issues where required.

IT Support & End User Services

  • Provide first- and second-line technical support for hardware, software, and systems.
  • Diagnose and resolve issues across Windows/macOS, Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Teams, SharePoint), and Endpoint devices (laptops, desktops, mobile devices).
  • Manage user accounts, access rights and permissions (Active Directory / Entra ID).
  • Perform device setup, imaging, configuration, onboarding and offboarding.
  • Configure and maintain employee laptops in line with SANS standards.
  • Maintain asset inventory and lifecycle management.
  • Provide Service Desk triage and response.

Network, Systems & Infrastructure Support

  • Support LAN/WAN connectivity and Wi-Fi networks.
  • Perform basic network troubleshooting (IP, DNS/DHCP, connectivity and latency issues).
  • Monitor network performance and escalate issues.
  • Assist with setup and maintenance of network hardware (switches, routers, patching).
  • Develop knowledge of networking technologies and concepts.

Systems Maintenance & Security

  • Perform routine system checks and preventative maintenance.
  • Apply patches, updates, and security fixes.
  • Monitor alerts and respond to incidents.
  • Ensure backup processes are functioning correctly.
  • Follow IT security policies and support MFA, endpoint protection, and access control.
  • Identify and escalate security risks or incidents.
  • Ensure compliance with internal IT and data protection standards.

Incident, Service & Vendor Management

  • Log, track, and resolve tickets using ITSM tools.
  • Prioritise issues based on impact and urgency.
  • Meet SLAs and escalate complex issues.
  • Liaise with external vendors for hardware support and repairs.
  • Liaise with external vendors for Network/ISP issues.
  • Track and manage procurement and maintenance of IT/AV equipment.

Documentation, Continuous Improvement & Collaboration

  • Maintain accurate documentation of systems and procedures.
  • Create and update knowledge base articles.
  • Document recurring issues and contribute to improvements.
  • Identify opportunities to improve user experience, system performance and support processes.
  • Collaborate with IT, facilities, and event teams.
  • Communicate clearly with technical and non-technical users.
  • Support cross-functional initiatives.
  • Stay up to date with new technologies, tools and best practices.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Essential

  • A degree in a technology focused discipline e.g. Information Technology, Computer Networking, etc, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 1-3 years of hands-on experience installing Audio Visual equipment and configuring computer networking equipment.
  • Fluency in English and Arabic with exceptional written and oral communication skills
  • A commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
  • Ability to work independently and well under pressure.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Proficient with various AV technologies (e.g. Shure Mic receivers, speaker configurations, laptop display configurations, various projectors equipment).
  • Familiar with wired/wireless network concepts, hardware, cabling, and best practices.
  • Familiar with troubleshooting availability and performance issues in a live network environment.
  • Familiarity with network monitoring.
  • Strong listening skills.
  • Ability to build and maintain excellent working relationships.
  • Proactive and dynamic.
  • Open to a collaborative and teamwork-based work environment.
  • Able to digest and adhere to technical documentation and instruction.
  • Logical and methodical approach to problem solving.
  • High levels of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Ability to use initiative and creativity to resolve problems.
  • The ability to prioritise tasks and manage multiple demands whilst on-site at events.
  • Comfortable working in a high visibility environment.
  • Ability and desire to travel around META.

Desirable

  • Experience in the Cyber Security sector.
  • Experience in working with Internet Service Providers/Network Service Providers a plus.
  • Ability to identify and solve technical issues in dynamic/unknown network topologies.