IT Applications Analyst (Python / SQL / PSC / Windows Server)

We are seeking a highly skilled IT Applications Analyst to support two critical initiatives: Aspen Data Mart - focused on Python development, data integration, testing, and Kafka-based streaming CIP Local Password Tool (CLPT) - supporting a vendor solution (Power System Center - PSC) including a core application and Progressive Web Application (PWA) used by field personnel This role requires a strong blend of data engineering, application support, Windows server administration, and security troubleshooting. The ideal candidate will be capable of supporting complex, security-driven environments involving TLS/mTLS certificates, service accounts, and synchronized web-based applications, while also contributing to development and testing activities., Project 1: Aspen Data Mart (Data Engineering & Integration)

• Develop and maintain Python-based data pipelines and applications
• Support data transformation, validation, and analysis
• Write and execute test scenarios (qTest) for data migration and validation
• Configure and troubleshoot Kafka topics, producers, and consumers
• Ensure reliability and performance of data flows and integrations
• Project 2: CLPT / Power System Center (Application & Platform Support)
• Provide operational and technical support for Power System Center (PSC):
• PSC Central Core application (central system)
• PSC Local used on field laptops
• Troubleshoot complex application issues, including:
• Sync failures between systems
• Authentication and connectivity issues
• Application performance and availability problems

Application & Web Platform Support

• Configure and support web-based applications across environments
• Troubleshoot issues spanning:
• Application layer
• Web services/APIs
• Client-side (field laptops / browser-based PWA)
• Analyze logs, services, and data flows to identify root causes

Windows Server & Infrastructure Administration

• Administer and support Windows Server environments hosting PSC and related applications
• Manage:
• Application services
• Scheduled jobs and background processes
• Server performance and health monitoring
• Support deployments, patching, and configuration updates

Security & Identity (Critical Requirement)

• Manage and troubleshoot certificate-based authentication, including:
• TLS / mTLS configurations
• Server and client certificate installation and renewal
• Support service account (including gMSA) configurations
• Diagnose and resolve security-related issues:
• Authentication failures
• Certificate trust/chain issues
• Secure communication breakdowns
• Ensure systems align with NERC CIP and enterprise security requirements

Data & Database Management

• Manage and support Oracle and SQL Server databases
• Perform:
• Query tuning and performance optimization
• Data validation and troubleshooting
• Support backend data flows for both Aspen and PSC systems

Testing & Quality Assurance

• Develop and execute qTest scenarios
• Perform:
• Functional testing
• Integration testing
• Regression testing
• Validate both data accuracy and application behavior

Business & Data Analysis

• Work with business stakeholders to gather requirements and clarify issues
• Conduct data analysis to support troubleshooting and decision-making
• Translate business needs into technical solutions and improvements

Do you have experience in Windows support?, * Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)

• 8+ years of experience in IT application support, development, or data engineering roles

Technical Skills Strong experience with:

• Python development
• Microsoft SQL Server
• Windows Server administration
• Web application configuration and support
• Proven experience troubleshooting:
• Distributed applications
• Integration and synchronization issues
• Experience with:
• TLS / mTLS and certificate management
• Service accounts (including secure configurations)
• Testing tools such as qTest
• Kafka configuration and troubleshooting

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Progressive Web Applications (PWA) and sync-based architectures
• Familiarity with NERC CIP or security compliance environments
• Experience with field-based systems or disconnected/sync models
• Experience working with vendors (e.g., Subnet) in support and troubleshooting scenarios

Key Competencies: Strong end-to-end troubleshooting across:

• Infrastructure (Windows Server)
• Application layer
• Security layer (certificates, auth)
• Data layer (SQL/Kafka)
• Ability to diagnose complex, multi-system failures (sync, auth, data)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication with both technical teams and business stakeholders
• Detail-oriented with strong focus on compliance, auditability, and system reliability

4.54.5 out of 5 stars Charlotte, NC 28206 Hybrid work $65 - $75 an hour - Contract, Pay: $65.00 - $75.00/hr; W2 contract, no PTO, no Benefits. ACA-compliant supplemental package available for enrollment. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must be able to sit on Primary Talent Partners W2 without sponsorship.