Classified Virtualization Systems Administrator

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 100,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a Virtualization Systems Administrator to manage VMware Horizon VDI in a classified setting. You will install, configure, patch, and monitor the VDI stack, enforce security controls, and support Windows Server, AD, DNS, DHCP, and GPOs.

Required are a Bachelor's in CS/IT or related field with 2+ years of VDI experience, DoD 8570 certification, and an active Secret clearance (Top Secret eligibility).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, related field or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years experience with installation, configuration, and administration of virtual environments (VMware ESXi, vCenter Server, Horizon View).
• Familiarity with user profile management, application provisioning, and desktop pool management within VDI.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for complex virtual environments.
• Experience with classified systems, applying STIGs to OS, apps and network peripherals.
• Active DoD 8570 certification (Security+ or CISSP) or ability to obtain within 6 months.
• Active Secret clearance; ability to obtain Top Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Manage, configure, and maintain VMware Horizon VDI infrastructure in a classified environment.
• Implement and maintain VDI solutions including pools, provisioning, and user profiles.
• Apply security controls, patches, and audits to protect classified information.
• Install and maintain Windows Server OS, AD, DNS, DHCP, and GPOs.
• Develop and maintain SOPs, configurations, troubleshooting guides, and knowledge base articles.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on organization-wide IT projects in the classified environment.

Skills

VMware Horizon VDI

VDI administration

Security clearance

DoD 8570 certification

Troubleshooting

Scripting (PowerShell, Python)

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/IT or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

PowerShell

Python

Job description

Description

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 8 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.

Qualifications

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

• Possess a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, related field or equivalent professional experience.
• Have 2+years experience with installation, configuration, and administration of virtual environments, particularly VMware ESXi, vCenter Server, and VMware Horizon View.
• Familiarity with user profile management, application provisioning, and desktop pool management within the VDI environment.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills diagnosing and resolving complex virtual environment related issues.
• Experience with classified systems, including applying STIGs to operating systems, applications and network peripherals.
• Superb communication and collaboration skills effectively working and interacting with the team.
• Current DoD 8570 certification (Security+ or CISSP), or ability to obtain DoD 8570 certification within 6 months of employment required.
• Have an active Secret security clearance and can obtain a Top Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

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

• A Master’s degree in Information Systems/Technology, Cybersecurity or Computer Science or related field.
• Relevant virtualization certifications, such VMware Certified Professional (VCP).
• Proficiency in scripting languages (PowerShell, Python, etc.) for automation of VDI tasks, customization, and process optimization.
• Familiarity with application virtualization technologies, such as Microsoft App-V or VMware ThinApp, to deliver virtualized applications within the VDI environment.

About Us

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 https://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 [e-mail].

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.

Minimum Rate

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually