Lead Systems Engineer

Systems Engineer LeadPosition: Systems Engineer LeadOrganization: DoDPosition Type: Full-TimeWork Environment: On-siteSecurity Clearance: Top Secret clearanceThe Server Systems Engineer/Server Lead is responsible for the design, administration, optimization, and security of enterprise server infrastructure supporting mission-critical academic, defense, and research operations. This role leads server engineering initiatives across physical, virtual, and cloud-connected environments while ensuring high availability, scalability, performance, and cybersecurity compliance. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in Windows Server administration, virtualization, enterprise storage, identity integration with Microsoft Entra ID, and enterprise cloud platforms including Microsoft 365 or Office 365 within highly regulated environments.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the architecture, deployment, and maintenance of enterprise server infrastructure.Administer and support:Windows Server environmentsVirtualized infrastructureHybrid cloud-connected systemsEnterprise messaging and collaboration servicesManage and support:Microsoft 365Office 365Exchange OnlineTeamsSharePoint OnlineOneDrive administrationManage identity and access integration using:Active DirectoryMicrosoft Entra IDGroup PolicyConditional AccessMulti-Factor Authentication (MFA)Oversee server lifecycle management including:ProvisioningPatchingHardeningMonitoringBackup and disaster recoveryMaintain high-availability systems and ensure maximum uptime for critical services.Configure and manage virtualization platforms such as:VMwareHyper-VNutanixSupport enterprise storage and backup infrastructure.Implement cybersecurity best practices including:Server hardeningVulnerability remediationAccess control managementAudit complianceMonitor infrastructure performance and troubleshoot complex server-side issues.Develop automation scripts using PowerShell and enterprise automation tools.Support data center operations, maintenance windows, and infrastructure upgrades.Collaborate with cybersecurity, networking, and application teams on infrastructure initiatives.Create and maintain technical documentation, SOPs, and disaster recovery plans.Lead junior engineers and infrastructure modernization projects.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in information technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.10+ years of enterprise server administration or systems engineering experience.Strong expertise with:Windows ServerActive DirectoryMicrosoft Entra IDMicrosoft 365Office 365VMware or Hyper-VExperience with:Exchange OnlineSharePoint OnlineTeams AdministrationDNS, DHCP, Group PolicyServer virtualizationEnterprise backup systemsStorage infrastructurePatch management systemsKnowledge of cybersecurity frameworks, DISA STIGs, and server hardening standards.Strong PowerShell scripting and automation experience.Strong troubleshooting and infrastructure optimization skills.Required CertificationsDoD 8570 / 8140 IAT Level III CertificationOne or more of the following Computing Environment (CE) Certifications:Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator AssociateMicrosoft Certified: Azure Administrator AssociateMicrosoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator ExpertVMware Certified Professional (VCP)Preferred QualificationsExperience in government, military, higher education, or defense environments.Familiarity with:Azure infrastructureHybrid cloud environmentsZero Trust architectureSIEM monitoring platformsInfrastructure automation toolsPreferred certifications:CISSPCASP+Security+Azure Solutions Architect ExpertLeadership ExpectationsProvide technical leadership for enterprise server operations.Lead infrastructure modernization and capacity planning initiatives.Mentor engineering staff and establish operational best practices.Coordinate cross-functional projects involving systems, security, and networking teams.Ensure infrastructure compliance with federal cybersecurity and defense standards.Core CompetenciesEnterprise Server AdministrationMicrosoft Infrastructure TechnologiesMicrosoft 365 AdministrationVirtualization & StorageInfrastructure SecurityDisaster Recovery & BackupAutomation & PowerShellTechnical LeadershipPerformance Optimization