Desktop Architect

Optim-G Sourcing; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 100 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading IT services provider in Johannesburg seeks a highly skilled Desktop Architect to design, implement, and manage the desktop computing environment. The role involves developing strategies, ensuring optimal system performance and security, and collaborating with IT teams and end-users. Candidates should have 5-10 years of experience in desktop infrastructure, be proficient in various operating systems, and hold relevant certifications. This position offers an opportunity to lead in a dynamic corporate environment.

Qualifications

• 5-10 years in desktop infrastructure design, implementation, and support.
• Experience as a Desktop Engineer, Systems Engineer, or IT Architect.
• Hands-on enterprise-scale desktop deployments and managed services.
• Experience in IT security, compliance, and risk management.
• Knowledge of cloud migration and hybrid environments.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain desktop computing environments.
• Collaborate with IT, network, security, and end-users.
• Provide tier 3 support for Workspace and field services.

Skills

Desktop Architecture & Design

Operating Systems

Virtualization Technologies

Endpoint Management

Cloud & Hybrid Environments

Security & Compliance

Networking & System Integration

Software Deployment & Patch Management

Education

Microsoft Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate (MD-102)

Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate

Microsoft Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert

Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104)

CompTIA Security+

ITIL Foundation

Job description

The Desktop Architect is a highly skilled and experienced professional responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the desktop computing environment within an organization. This role involves developing comprehensive strategies for desktop infrastructure, evaluating new technologies, and ensuring optimal performance and security of desktop systems.

The Desktop Architect collaborates with various teams, including IT, network, security, and end-users, to create a seamless and efficient desktop computing environment that meets the organization's business needs. The Desktop Architect will also serve as a tier 3 support for Workspace and field services after all solutions has been exercised without success.

Technical Skills

• Desktop Architecture & Design : Expertise in designing and implementing enterprise desktop solutions, including hardware and software configurations.
• Operating Systems : Proficiency in Windows, macOS, and Linux desktop environments, including deployment and management.
• Virtualization Technologies : Experience with VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) solutions such as VMware Horizon, Citrix Virtual Apps & Desktops, and Microsoft AVD (Azure Virtual Desktop).
• Endpoint Management : Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Endpoint Manager (Intune & SCCM), Ivanti, Jamf (for macOS), and other MDM (Mobile Device Management) solutions.
• Cloud & Hybrid Environments : Knowledge of Microsoft 365, Azure AD, AWS Workspaces, and Google Workspace.
• Security & Compliance : Familiarity with endpoint security tools, encryption, identity and access management (IAM), multi‑factor authentication (MFA), and compliance frameworks (ISO 27001, NIST, GDPR, etc.).
• Networking & System Integration : Strong understanding of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPNs, and integration with on‑premise and cloud services.
• Software Deployment & Patch Management : Experience with automated software deployment, patching, and scripting using PowerShell, Bash, or Python.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in desktop infrastructure design, implementation, and support.
• Prior experience as a Desktop Engineer, Systems Engineer, End‑User Computing Specialist, or IT Architect before transitioning to an architect‑level role.
• Hands‑on experience with enterprise‑scale desktop deployments, virtualization, and endpoint management.
• Experience working in a large corporate IT environment or Managed Services Provider (MSP) is beneficial.
• Involvement in IT security, compliance, and risk management related to desktop computing.
• Experience with cloud migration, hybrid environments, and modern workplace solutions.

Professional Certifications (Preferred & Recommended)

Microsoft Certifications

• Microsoft Certified : Endpoint Administrator Associate (MD‑102)
• Microsoft Certified : Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate
• Microsoft Certified : Enterprise Administrator Expert
• Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ‑104) (for cloud‑based desktop environments)

Security & Compliance

• CompTIA Security+

IT Service Management & Networking

• ITIL Foundation (IT Service Management)

Additional Desirable Knowledge & Expertise

• Experience in automation and scripting using PowerShell, Bash, or Python.
• Knowledge of Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) for endpoint security.
• Exposure to AI‑driven IT operations (AIOps) and self‑healing endpoint solutions.
• Experience with enterprise mobility solutions such as MobileIron, VMware Workspace ONE, or Microsoft Intune.