Cloud Systems Administrator

Cloud Systems Administrator Reports To: IT Manager Location: Stafford, VA (Hybrid) About Paradigm Max Q Paradigm Max Q is redefining defense industry support. Founded in 2023, we combine elite talent, disciplined execution, and innovative thinking to deliver measurable results that improve readiness and reduce costs for the government and warfighter. As a rapidly growing SDVOSB, we are committed to operational excellence, accountability, and building a high-performing organization that delivers exceptional results for our customers. Our mission is to deliver measurable results that strengthen national defense and empower those who serve. Position Summary Paradigm Max Q is seeking an experienced Cloud Systems Administrator to administer, secure, and optimize the organization's Microsoft cloud and on‑premises infrastructure. The successful candidate will manage Microsoft Azure, Azure Virtual Desktop, Microsoft 365, Windows Server environments, SharePoint Online, Microsoft Intune, Microsoft Entra ID, and Microsoft Defender while ensuring reliable, secure, and compliant enterprise operations. The Cloud Systems Administrator will play a key role in maintaining enterprise systems, supporting end users, implementing security best practices, and modernizing infrastructure through cloud technologies and automation. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Administer and maintain Microsoft Azure cloud infrastructure, including virtual machines, storage accounts, virtual networking, Azure Backup, Azure Monitor, and resource management. Deploy, configure, and support Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) environments, including host pools, session hosts, user profiles, and application delivery. Administer Windows Server environments, including installation, upgrades, patching, monitoring, and lifecycle management. Manage Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, Teams, OneDrive, SharePoint Online, and Microsoft 365 administration. Administer Microsoft Entra ID (Azure Active Directory), including identity lifecycle management, Conditional Access, Multifactor Authentication (MFA), Single Sign-On (SSO), Privileged Identity Management (PIM), and role‑based access controls. Manage Microsoft Intune for endpoint configuration, device compliance, application deployment, mobile device management (MDM), and endpoint security. Administer Microsoft Defender solutions, including Defender for Endpoint, Defender for Office 365, Microsoft Defender XDR, and security recommendations. Configure and maintain SharePoint Online sites, permissions, document libraries, collaboration workspaces, and governance policies. Support Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Group Policy, file services, print services, and enterprise authentication. Monitor infrastructure health, system availability, storage utilization, and cloud resource performance. Perform system backups, disaster recovery testing, and business continuity planning. Troubleshoot complex server, cloud, endpoint, networking, and Microsoft 365 issues while providing Tier II/III technical support. Develop PowerShell scripts and automation solutions to improve operational efficiency and reduce manual administration. Collaborate with cybersecurity personnel to implement security baselines, remediate vulnerabilities, and maintain compliance with organizational policies. Create and maintain technical documentation, standard operating procedures, architecture diagrams, and asset inventories. Support cloud migration projects, infrastructure modernization efforts, and continuous process improvement initiatives. Participate in scheduled maintenance windows and on‑call support as required. Required Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related discipline; or Associate's degree with Microsoft Azure certifications and equivalent professional experience. Experience 5–7 years of systems administration experience in enterprise IT environments. Hands‑on experience administering Microsoft Azure cloud infrastructure. Experience supporting Windows Server operating systems. Experience administering Microsoft 365. Experience managing Microsoft Entra ID (Azure Active Directory). Experience with Microsoft Intune endpoint management. Experience supporting Azure Virtual Desktop environments. Experience administering SharePoint Online. Experience supporting Microsoft Defender security solutions. Experience managing hybrid Active Directory and cloud identity environments. Experience with virtualization technologies such as VMware or Hyper‑V. Experience troubleshooting enterprise networking, storage, and server infrastructure. Preferred Qualifications Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ‑104) Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ‑305) Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert Microsoft Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate (MD‑102) CompTIA Security+ ITIL Foundation Certification Experience supporting Department of Defense or federal government customers. Familiarity with Azure Government Cloud. Experience supporting CMMC 2.0, NIST SP 800‑171, NIST SP 800‑53, CIS Benchmarks, and DCSA security requirements. Active Secret Clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Azure cloud administration. Strong experience with Azure Virtual Desktop administration. Expert knowledge of Microsoft 365 technologies. Strong understanding of Microsoft Intune and modern endpoint management. Experience administering Microsoft Entra ID identity and access management. Knowledge of Microsoft Defender security products and Zero Trust security principles. Strong Windows Server administration skills. Knowledge of Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, TCP/IP, VPNs, and firewalls. Proficiency with PowerShell scripting and automation. Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem‑solving skills. Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities while delivering exceptional customer service. Benefits Statement Paradigm Max Q provides eligible employees with a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, a 401(k), paid time off, company‑paid holidays, and reimbursement for a Planet Fitness Black Card membership. EEO Statement Paradigm Max Q is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. Salary Range (DMV Market): $75,000 annually–$110,000 annually Location‑Based Compensation: Compensation is determined based on the employee's primary work location, applicable labor market, experience, education, certifications, security clearance, and other job‑related factors. Candidates working outside the DMV may receive a different salary range consistent with local market conditions and applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr