Systems Engineer

Description We are looking for an experienced Systems Engineer to support and enhance a complex enterprise infrastructure environment in Illinois. This long-term contract position is ideal for a hands-on specialist who can manage core Microsoft, virtualization, and cloud technologies while maintaining stability, security, and operational efficiency. The role will focus on Windows systems engineering, hybrid identity administration, platform upgrades, and infrastructure automation across on-premises and Azure environments.

Responsibilities:

• Administer and improve enterprise Windows Server infrastructure, ensuring reliable performance, security, and alignment with operational standards.

• Lead VMware vSphere lifecycle activities, including environment assessments, version upgrades, and workload movement to alternate hypervisor platforms when required.

• Manage Active Directory in complex multi-forest environments, including organizational unit structure, delegated administration, trust design, Kerberos policy configuration, and directory cleanup efforts.

• Support Azure infrastructure services by handling IaaS resources, hybrid connectivity, identity integration, backup operations, and subscription-level administration.

• Oversee enterprise messaging and endpoint management platforms such as Exchange and SCCM, maintaining service availability and supporting ongoing enhancements.

• Provision and maintain NetApp storage resources, administer datastores, and coordinate storage integration with virtualized environments.

• Develop and maintain production-quality PowerShell scripts to automate routine administration, streamline operational tasks, and improve consistency.

• Execute infrastructure changes within established ITSM and change control frameworks, documenting implementation steps, risks, and validation outcomes.

• Contribute to technical documentation and runbook development, including the effective use of AI-based tools to accelerate knowledge capture and operational readiness. Requirements * 10+ years of hands-on experience engineering Windows infrastructure within large enterprise environments.

• Strong expertise with VMware vSphere, including production upgrades and migrations involving virtualization platforms.

• Advanced knowledge of Active Directory administration across multi-forest environments, including GPOs, delegation models, trusts, and hybrid identity concepts.

• Experience administering Azure infrastructure services, including IaaS, Azure Backup, and Microsoft Entra ID in hybrid environments.

• Background supporting enterprise Microsoft platforms such as Windows Server, Exchange, SCCM, and SCOM.

• Familiarity with NetApp storage administration, including provisioning and datastore management for virtual environments.

• Proven ability to create maintainable PowerShell automation for production use with minimal oversight.

• Experience working within formal ITSM and change management processes; exposure to tools such as Freshservice or similar platforms is preferred. Technology Doesn't Change the World, People Do.®

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