Lead Systems Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary:

The Lead Systems Engineer is a senior-level, hands-on infrastructure expert responsible for the performance, reliability, and scalability of enterprise IT systems. This role combines tactical execution with strategic planning, supporting day-to-day operations while contributing to the design and delivery of critical infrastructure projects. The Lead Systems Engineer acts as a technical mentor and escalation point for the systems team, helping guide architectural decisions, enforce best practices, and ensure infrastructure supports the evolving needs of a $500M+ multi-location organization. The Lead Systems Engineer provides mentorship and technical guidance to team members, ensures best practices are followed, and provides excellent customer service to internal and external customers. The Lead Systems Engineer provides excellent customer service to internal and external customers and demonstrates strict confidentiality with all team members while serving as an ambassador of our culture.

Essential Functions:

• Lead the configuration, administration, and optimization of core systems including Windows Server, Active Directory, DNS/DHCP, file services, and virtualization platforms (VMware/Hyper-V).

• Execute high-impact infrastructure projects such as domain migrations, hybrid cloud integrations, system upgrades, and data center improvements.

• Troubleshoot system issues and coordinate with the support team to diagnose and resolve system issues.

• Provide direct support and mentorship to System Administrators and Engineers; act as technical escalation point for complex issues.

• Develop, maintain, and enforce IT policies, procedures, and documentation in alignment with company standards in collaboration with the VP of Information Technology.

• Collaborate with the Vice President of Information Technology on infrastructure planning, roadmap execution, and vendor evaluations.

• Design and implement automation strategies using PowerShell or scripting tools to improve efficiency and reduce manual errors.

• Maintain backup systems, storage infrastructure (SAN/NAS), and disaster recovery environments.

• Support Azure and hybrid cloud environments, including M365 tenant configuration, identity sync, and secure access management.

• Document system architectures, procedures, and change management details in accordance with company policy.

• Ensure infrastructure compliance with internal security policies and industry standards (e.g., CIS Controls, NIST).

• Conduct audits, identify vulnerabilities, and develop strategies to enhance system security.

• Provide after-hours support as needed for urgent issues or scheduled maintenance windows.

• Partner with business leaders to understand technology needs, provide guidance, and ensure IT solutions support organizational goals.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Expert-level knowledge of core infrastructure: Windows Server, AD, GPO, DNS, DHCP, virtualization, storage.

• Strong scripting and automation skills (e.g., PowerShell) for task automation and system configuration.

• Familiarity with hybrid cloud environments, particularly Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365.

• Deep understanding of backup strategies, failover systems, and business continuity planning.

• Experience designing infrastructure in high-availability, multi-location environments.

• Excellent troubleshooting, documentation, and cross-team communication skills (oral and written).

• Excellent communication skills (oral and written), with the ability to translate technical concepts for diverse audiences.

• Strong project management skills: able to plan, prioritize, and execute multiple initiatives concurrently.

• Security-first mindset, with working knowledge of endpoint protection, patching, and system hardening.

• Proven ability to mentor staff, provide leadership, and act as a trusted technical escalation point.

• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills. Ability to lead both in-person and virtual teams.

Required Experience and Education:

• Minimum of 10–15 years of experience in system engineering or enterprise IT infrastructure roles.

• Experience supporting medium-to-large organizations ($500M+ preferred) with distributed locations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field preferred.

• Industry certifications such as MCSA/MCSE, Azure Administrator, VMware, or CompTIA Server+ are a plus.

Physical Demands:

• Frequently required to sit, stand, and walk.

• Occasionally required to bend, stoop, kneel, or crawl to access equipment.

• May occasionally travel between company locations to transport and install equipment.

• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

• Requires visual, hearing, and speech acuity.