Windows Systems Engineer

Are you a Windows Systems Engineer who enjoys tackling real issues in a complex enterprise environment?

Are you interested in a role that blends hands-on operational work with opportunities to improve and modernize infrastructure over time?

If so, we'd like to talk to you.

We are seeking a professional specializing in Windows systems to help build, operate, and support the physical and virtual Windows Server infrastructure. This infrastructure powers a wide range of internal enterprise applications at APL. In this role, you'll help ensure performance, reliability, and security for systems that support important work across the Laboratory.

You will join a skilled team of engineers who work collaboratively to enable APL staff to tackle some of the leading technical challenges faced nationwide. We value teamwork, shared ownership, and clear communication, and we expect every team member to contribute thoughtfully and consistently.

• Your primary responsibility will be managing Windows Server environments, including installing, configuring, maintaining, and upgrading Windows-based systems. You will ensure system stability, data security, and appropriate user access, while solving OS and application performance issues to meet defined Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
• You will analyze, evaluate, and implement hardware, software, and enterprise management tools to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the Windows Server environment.
• You will participate in an on-call rotation and help maintain system security and integrity by applying monthly Microsoft OS and third-party security patches using tools such as Ivanti Security Controls and PDQ Deploy.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Hold a B.S. degree or have equivalent professional IT experience.
• Have at least one year of hands-on Windows Server engineering experience with Windows Server 2019 or 2022.
• Possess strong analytical, fixing, and problem-resolution skills, with the ability to clearly explain issues and recommend practical solutions.
• Demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills and can work efficiently with staff and customers at all levels.
• Are able to obtain a Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government secret clearance investigation and must meet requirements for access to classified information, including U.S. citizenship.
• Are available for occasional Saturday and early-morning Tuesday or Thursday work, approximately once every four weeks.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have solid understanding of PDQ Deploy and PDQ Inventory.
• Can demonstrate experience developing and maintaining PowerShell scripts.
• Hold Dell Server Hardware, CompTIA A+, Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), or Security+ certifications.
• Have experience using Dell OpenManage.

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.