Frank Baster
IT Professional
Work Experience
Technician
University of Otago
2017-2022
- Provide desktop support to staff and students over the phone and in person at the help desk. Verify identity and reset user passwords as required. Troubleshoot and resolve a wide range of issues, including operating system errors, network connectivity, printer support, and hardware peripherals.
- Communicate clearly and effectively, helping all people to connect with technology.
- Support a variety of operating systems such as Windows, macOS and Linux, including desktop computers and laptops.
- Install Windows images on new computers using Microsoft Deployment Toolkit, including installation of research software. Maintain an extensive database of software licensing information, and renew licenses as needed.
- Ensure the correct setup of network printers, network addressable storage and user accounts using Active Directory.
- Administer a computer network servicing 9 buildings with a 10Gbps fibre ring topology.
- Provision and maintain network addressable storage, ensuring automated backups are functioning to protect user data. Use Beyond Compare software to verify backup integrity.
- Design and construct microprocessor based circuits, including embedded software development with C and C++ programming languages.
- Consult with faculty members and students to find software and hardware solutions to meet research requirements.
- Construct, repair and service experimental project equipment.
Survey Technician
McConnell Dowell
2016-2017
- Undertake surface survey of undulating farmland to facilitate the construction of a 100km long irrigation pipeline in North Otago.
- Use AutoCAD software to accurately process collected data into three dimensional surfaces mapping the terrain.
- Designed and implemented AutoCAD scripts to automate the processing of topographical data. Many engineers found my scripts useful to improve their workflow efficiency.
Technician
Streat Instruments
2015-2016
- Remote monitoring and diagnostics of soil moisture sensors.
- Watch for errors in sensor data. If fault conditions identified, phone customers to diagnose hardware and software issues. Dispatch technicians to visit site if needed.
- Keep track of any faults and report software issues to the development team for resolution.
Core Competencies
Customer Service
Clear communication, jargon-free explanations, user training.
Machine Learning
Design, train and evaluate neural network models. Experience using TensorFlow and Keras.
Operating Systems
Windows, macOS, Linux (desktop and server environments).
Network Administration
Active Directory, network printers, NAS, automated backups.
Software Licensing
Database management, license renewals, software provisioning.
Tools and Technologies
SCCM, WSUS, Microsoft Server, Microsoft Exchange.
Programming and Scripting
Python, C, C++, SQL, PowerShell, bash.
Server Administration
Web servers, VPNs, mail transfer agents, TLS certificate management.
Education
Roncalli College
Timaru
2003-2008
- First in class - Dux
- NCEA level 3 endorsed with excellence
References
References are available on request.