IT System Administrator (Volunteer)

Mentor A Promise is a New York City–based nonprofit serving children and youth (ages 5–18) experiencing housing instability, grounded in the belief that every child is a Promise—full of potential, dignity, and possibility. We deliver consistent, high-quality programming across mentorship, literacy, social-emotional learning, and creative expression in shelters, schools, and community spaces, creating structured environments where students can grow, be seen, and build lasting skills. Through signature experiences like The Imagination Studio, The Kitchen Table, The Sound Lab, and The Story Space, we nurture academic development, emotional well-being, and creative voice, all within a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and accessibility-centered framework. Our work prioritizes dignity-protective storytelling, consent-driven engagement, and deep community partnership, ensuring that how we serve is as intentional as whom we serve.

About the role

Mentor A Promise (MAP) is seeking a detail-oriented and mission-driven IT System Administrator to support and strengthen our technology infrastructure, data security, and day-to-day IT operations. This role is responsible for maintaining MAP’s systems, supporting users, and helping implement secure, scalable solutions that protect sensitive student and volunteer data. The ideal candidate is both technically capable and aligned with MAP’s mission to serve students experiencing housing instability.

This position is part of a team of IT System Administrators who collectively ensure consistent system coverage and support. Given the volunteer nature of the role, responsibilities are shared across team members to maintain continuity despite varying individual availability. Team members are expected to collaborate closely, coordinate coverage, and proactively communicate needs to prevent gaps in support. This includes maintaining clear documentation of work in progress, regularly updating task status, and flagging issues early so that others can step in as needed.

Responsibilities

• Systems Administration & Support
  • Manage and maintain core systems (e.g., Google Workspace, shared drives, email, user accounts)
  • Provision and deprovision user access for staff and volunteers
  • Troubleshoot hardware, software, and access issues
  • Support onboarding/offboarding processes for users
• Security & Data Protection
  • Implement and maintain basic security controls (e.g., MFA, access controls, password policies)
  • Support compliance with data privacy requirements (e.g., FERPA-aligned practices, nonprofit data handling standards)
  • Monitor for unusual activity and escalate potential security incidents
  • Assist in implementing security policies aligned with frameworks such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)
• Infrastructure & Cloud Management
  • Support configuration and maintenance of cloud systems and environments
  • Assist with website hosting, domain management, and basic cloud configuration
  • Ensure systems are updated, patched, and functioning reliably
• Documentation & Process Improvement
  • Maintain clear documentation of systems, access controls, and procedures
  • Support development of IT policies (e.g., acceptable use, data handling, access management)
  • Help standardize workflows and improve operational efficiency
• Collaboration & Project Support
  • Work with internal stakeholders and volunteers (e.g., developers, data teams)
  • Support implementation of new tools or systems
  • Assist in aligning IT practices with organizational priorities and program needs

Qualifications

Required

• 1–3+ years of experience in IT support, system administration, or related field
• Experience with cloud-based tools (e.g., Google Workspace, Microsoft 365)
• Basic understanding of cybersecurity principles (authentication, access control, data protection)
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical users

Preferred

• Familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., NIST CSF, CIS Controls)
• Experience in a nonprofit, education, or mission-driven organization
• Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or similar)
• Experience supporting websites or web applications
• Relevant certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, Google IT Support, AWS Cloud Practitioner)

Skills

• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Proactive mindset toward security and risk management
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Collaborative and service-oriented approach

Impact of the role

This role plays a critical part in:

• Protecting sensitive student and volunteer data
• Ensuring reliable and secure systems for program delivery
• Supporting MAP’s growth with scalable and well-managed technology

Why Work With Us?

At Mentor A Promise, we believe meaningful collaboration drives real change. Join a passionate, mission-driven team and contribute directly to our shared impact.