Classified Virtualization Systems Administrator

Do you thrive in and love a fast-paced, dynamic classified environment?

Do you want to be empowered to take ownership and stake in the overall engineering and operations of the IT infrastructure?

Are you interested in learning new technologies and creating new IT capabilities?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to apply and join our team at APL!

We are ranked as one of Computerworld 's Top Places to Work in IT for 6 years running, and we are seeking a Virtualization Systems Administrator to help us protect APL's information technology infrastructure. We are seeking a skilled Virtualization System Administrator with classified working experience and expertise in VMware Horizon Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) to join our team. As a Virtualization System Administrator, you will play a vital role in maintaining and supporting our classified systems and infrastructure.

As a Virtualization Systems Administrator you will...

• Manage, configure, and maintain VMware Horizon VDI infrastructure in a classified environment. This includes installation, configuration, patching, and ongoing system administration/monitoring to ensure optimal performance, security, and availability.
• Implement and maintain VDI solutions, including virtual desktop pools, application provisioning, and user profile management. Monitor VDI performance and capacity, troubleshoot issues, and optimize resource utilization.
• Implement security measures and requirements for classified systems within the virtual environment. Configure access controls, security patches, and updates to protect classified information. Perform regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and implement necessary security patches and updates.
• Install, configure, and maintain Windows server operating systems, including Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policy.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), system configurations, troubleshooting guides, and knowledge base articles. Continuously improve processes and procedures to enhance system reliability, efficiency, and security.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on organization-wide IT projects, providing expertise on VDI-related matters. Contribute to infrastructure upgrades, migrations, and technology evaluations within the classified environment.

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

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, a related field, or have equivalent professional experience.

• Have at least 3 years of hands-on, enterprise-level experience installing, configuring, and administering virtual environments-particularly VMware ESXi, vCenter Server, and VMware Horizon View.

• Are proficient in user profile management, application provisioning, and desktop pool management within a VDI environment.

• Demonstrate strong troubleshooting and analytical skills in diagnosing and resolving complex issues in virtualized environments.

• Have experience working with classified systems, including applying STIGs to operating systems, applications, and network devices.

• Possess excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with technical teams, management, and stakeholders.

• Meet the DoD 8140.03 Cyberspace Workforce Qualification and Management Program requirements at an intermediate level through training and/or certifications (e.g., Security+ or higher).

• Currently hold an active Secret security clearance and are eligible to obtain a Top Secret clearance. Final appointment to this position is contingent upon a favorable government background investigation. U.S. citizenship is required.

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

• Hold a Master's degree in Information Systems, Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or a closely related field.

• Possess advanced certifications in virtualization technologies, such as VMware Certified Professional (VCP).

• Are proficient in scripting languages (e.g., PowerShell, Python) for automating VDI operations, enhancing workflows, and optimizing system performance.

• Have experience with application virtualization platforms such as Microsoft App-V or VMware ThinApp for seamless software delivery in a VDI environment.

• Bring experience leading virtualization projects, mentoring junior administrators, and guiding technical decisions in secure enterprise environments.

• Have familiarity with additional virtualization platforms such as Citrix Hypervisor or Microsoft Hyper-V.

• Demonstrate a strong understanding of security compliance, patch management, and vulnerability remediation in accordance with DoD standards.

• Have contributed to the design, testing, and maintenance of disaster recovery and business continuity plans for virtualized environments.

• Communicate effectively across technical and non-technical audiences and are skilled in documenting processes, producing technical reports, and conveying system statuses to stakeholders.

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 athttp://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 contactAccommodations@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.