Director of Systems Engineering

Job Title: Director of Systems Engineering

Overview:
Are you a visionary technical leader ready to shape the future of enterprise infrastructure in a dynamic, collaborative environment? We’re seeking a seasoned Director of Systems Engineering to lead, rebuild, and elevate our systems engineering function. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to drive strategic initiatives, establish industry-leading processes, and mentor a talented team in support of a mission-driven higher education institution. If you thrive in a consultative setting where innovation, teamwork, and technical excellence intersect, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact.

Required Skills:

• Extensive leadership experience overseeing infrastructure, systems engineering, or platform teams.
• Deep technical expertise in enterprise systems, virtualization, and storage technologies.
• Proven success in managing and mentoring technical staff, fostering growth and operational discipline.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to advance infrastructure initiatives and manage multiple priorities.
• Experience managing outsourced partners, such as MSPs, to ensure seamless operations.
• Ability to operate autonomously as a senior technical authority and develop standardized, scalable processes.
• Skilled in stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and consensus-building across diverse teams.

Nice to Have Skills:

• Familiarity with virtualization platforms like Nutanix AHV and Proxmox.
• Experience with enterprise storage solutions including NetApp, Pure Storage, Dell Isilon/PowerScale, or VAST Data.
• Knowledge of operating systems including Windows Server and Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
• Exposure to cloud environments such as AWS and Azure, especially establishing infrastructure standards.
• Higher education or large organizational experience emphasizing collaboration and cross-functional engagement.
• Security best practices and knowledge of campus or physical security systems.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 7+ years of progressive experience in systems engineering or infrastructure leadership, including at least 3 years in a managerial role.
• Prior experience in higher education or similarly complex, collaborative environments is highly advantageous.

Other Requirements:

• This position is primarily onsite in Worcester, with occasional flexibility for remote work.
• Typical workweek of 37.5 hours; some after-hours support may be required for emergency issues.
• Willingness to participate in strategic projects and campus initiatives, potentially intersecting with security and other operational areas.
• The role is initially contracted for 3–6 months with the possibility of extension or conversion to permanent employment.
• The interview process includes multiple rounds with key stakeholders including the Assistant CTO and CIO.
• Candidates must be comfortable working in a highly collaborative, innovative, and respectful environment aligned with our institutional culture.