PMI-SA is a professional services firm that specializes in high-stakes infrastructure and disaster recovery solutions. In the world of IT, Disaster Recovery (DR) is the “insurance policy” for data. Based in the tech hub of Midrand, the company works with clients to simulate system failures and ensure that their recovery environments are robust, secure, and fast.
Role Overview & Key Responsibilities
This is a “hands-on” role that bridges the gap between hardware maintenance and high-level server administration.
- DR Testing: Preparing and supporting Disaster Recovery tests (simulating a “total system fail” to see if the backup works).
- Infrastructure Support: Setting up and troubleshooting physical and virtual servers.
- Networking: Managing the “plumbing” of IT—Active Directory, DNS, and DHCP.
- Client Liaison: Working directly with clients and vendors to ensure their recovery sites are always “battle-ready.”
- Documentation: Keeping meticulous records of system configurations (vital for recovery).
Minimum Requirements (Non-Negotiable)
- Experience: At least 2+ years in junior IT support.
- Technical Skills: Confidence with Windows Servers, Active Directory, DNS, and DHCP.
- Logistics: Must have your own vehicle and a valid driver’s license (essential for site visits).
- Flexibility: Must be willing to work standby, after hours, and weekends (DR tests often happen when businesses are closed).
- Troubleshooting: Strong ability to fix hardware, software, and network issues under pressure.
Career Advice: The “DR” Specialist
- Emphasize “Calmness”: Disaster Recovery is high-pressure. In your CV, highlight instances where you solved an urgent problem while staying calm.
- Server Focus: If you have any certifications like CompTIA Server+ or AZ-800 (Windows Server), make sure they are at the top of your resume.
- The “Standby” Commitment: Midrand is a hub for data centers. Showing you are willing to handle the “standby” lifestyle proves you understand the industry’s demands.
- Documentation is Key: In DR, if it isn’t documented, it doesn’t exist. Mention your experience in creating SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) or technical guides.
Possible Interview Questions
“What is the difference between a Backup and Disaster Recovery?”
- Answer: “A backup is a copy of data saved for later use. Disaster Recovery is the entire strategy and infrastructure used to quickly restore that data and get the business running again after a major failure.”
“A client’s server fails during a DR test. What is your first step?”
- Answer: “I stay calm and refer to the documentation. I would check the network connectivity first, verify the DNS settings, and then look at the server logs to identify the root cause of the failover error.”
“How do you prioritize multiple technical issues when on standby?”
- Answer: “I use a severity-based approach. Any issue affecting the ‘Ready-State’ of a disaster recovery environment is a Priority 1, as that is our core promise to the client. I then communicate timelines clearly to all stakeholders.”
How to Apply
- Location: Midrand, Gauteng.
- Email CV to:
boitumelo.makhubela@pmi-sa.co.za - Subject Line: “Application: Junior Technical Engineer – [Your Name]”
- Closing Tip: Ensure you mention that you have a valid license and your own vehicle in your cover email!