Job description

The ServiceNow System Administrator will independently perform complex application and web development for projects of large to very large size and complexity and typically works as part of a team to implement business solutions. This position is responsible for all aspects of the application development lifecycle, including design, development, configuration, testing, deployment, and ongoing support. The System Administrator serves as a ServiceNow platform expert, administering and enhancing the ServiceNow environment to deliver automated, scalable IT service management solutions. This role collaborates with IT Service Management teams and stakeholders to understand business needs and translates them into technical solutions that improve service delivery for students, faculty, staff, and researchers. Ensures overall design consistency, system reliability, and high-quality delivery across build, release, and deployment processes. Core Duties: • Participate fully in the ServiceNow software development lifecycle, including design, development, testing, deployment, and support • Implement and support technical solutions to deliver business requirements, with a focus on ServiceNow-based applications and workflows • Administer the ServiceNow platform, including patching, upgrades, instance management, and MID server monitoring and maintenance • Configure and maintain core ServiceNow modules, including Incident, Problem, Change, Knowledge, Request, Configuration Management (CMDB), Service Catalog, Service Portal, and project/portfolio management capabilities • Plan, design, build, test, and deploy configuration changes such as forms, workflows, notifications, UI actions, and integrations • Develop and maintain scripts, workflows, and automation using ServiceNow scripting and orchestration tools • Build and evolve reports, dashboards, and performance metrics to support operational visibility and decision-making • Identify and evaluate opportunities to improve services, automate processes, and enhance user experience • Establish and maintain configuration standards and coding best practices to ensure system quality and compatibility with future upgrades • Partner with internal technical staff and external developers on complex efforts, including integrations, authentication methods, and platform enhancements • Contribute ideas to coding best practices, emerging technologies, and platform optimization • Act as a technical liaison to internal and external clients, leveraging strong communication and relationship management skills • Abide by and follow Harvard University IT technical standards, policies, and Code of Conduct Basic Qualifications: • Minimum of two years’ post-secondary education or relevant work experience Additional Qualifications and Skills: • Experience with ServiceNow administration, configuration, development, or implementation • Proficiency in JavaScript, HTML, or XML • Knowledge of information technology applications, processes, software, and equipment • Demonstrated ability to design and deliver complex technical solutions within enterprise platforms • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and creative thinking skills • Demonstrated team performance skills, service mindset approach, and ability to act as a trusted advisor • Ability to build positive relationships and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders • Strong oral and written communication skills • Effective prioritization and time management skills • High attention to detail and commitment to quality • Curiosity, continuous learning mindset, and dedication to organizational mission Certificates and Licenses: • ServiceNow certifications (e.g., System Administrator) preferred • Completion of Harvard IT Academy specified foundational courses (or external equivalent) preferred • Term: This is a two-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. • Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity • Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal. #LI-DK1 Work Format Details This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts . Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. Salary Grade and Ranges This position is salary grade level 057. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges   to view the corresponding salary range and related information. Benefits Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: • Generous paid time off including parental leave • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one • Retirement plans with university contributions • Wellbeing and mental health resources • Support for families and caregivers • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page . EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination . We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy . Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Requirements

Must-haves

Participate fully in the ServiceNow software development lifecycle, including design, development, testing, deployment, and support
Implement and support technical solutions to deliver business requirements, with a focus on ServiceNow-based applications and workflows
Administer the ServiceNow platform, including patching, upgrades, instance management, and MID server monitoring and maintenance
Configure and maintain core ServiceNow modules, including Incident, Problem, Change, Knowledge, Request, Configuration Management (CMDB), Service Catalog, Service Portal, and project/portfolio management capabilities
Plan, design, build, test, and deploy configuration changes such as forms, workflows, notifications, UI actions, and integrations
Develop and maintain scripts, workflows, and automation using ServiceNow scripting and orchestration tools
Build and evolve reports, dashboards, and performance metrics to support operational visibility and decision-making
Identify and evaluate opportunities to improve services, automate processes, and enhance user experience
Establish and maintain configuration standards and coding best practices to ensure system quality and compatibility with future upgrades
Partner with internal technical staff and external developers on complex efforts, including integrations, authentication methods, and platform enhancements
Contribute ideas to coding best practices, emerging technologies, and platform optimization
Act as a technical liaison to internal and external clients, leveraging strong communication and relationship management skills
Abide by and follow Harvard University IT technical standards, policies, and Code of Conduct
Minimum of two years’ post-secondary education or relevant work experience
Experience with ServiceNow administration, configuration, development, or implementation
Proficiency in JavaScript, HTML, or XML
Knowledge of information technology applications, processes, software, and equipment
Demonstrated ability to design and deliver complex technical solutions within enterprise platforms
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and creative thinking skills
Demonstrated team performance skills, service mindset approach, and ability to act as a trusted advisor
Ability to build positive relationships and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders
Strong oral and written communication skills

Nice-to-haves

ServiceNow certifications (e.g., System Administrator) preferred
Completion of Harvard IT Academy specified foundational courses (or external equivalent) preferred

Application prep

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Keywords to mirror

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Benefits

Benefits detected in the listing.

Health Insurance

Dental

Vision

Paid Time Off

Parental Leave

Professional Development