Job Title: Systems Engineer Location: Laurel, MD Duration: Contract to Hire Summary: Our client is looking for a Systems Engineer to design, implement, support, and maintain the enterprise infrastructure. In addition, this position is responsible for disaster recovery, security and telephony, and providing support to escalated help desk requests. Responsibilities: Install and configure servers and related hardware, peripherals, services, settings, directories, storage, etc. in accordance with standards and project and operational requirements. Perform ongoing performance tuning, upgrades, and optimization as required. Install, support and maintain network infrastructure to include local area and wide area networks (LAN/WAN), applications and server hardware. This includes the development of infrastructure polices and standards that ensure security and reliability Perform daily system monitoring, verifying the integrity and availability of all hardware, server and network resources, systems and key processes, reviewing system and application logs, and verifying completion of scheduled jobs such as backups. Perform periodic performance reporting to support short-term and long-term capacity planning Recommend changes to improve network and infrastructure systems and determine hardware, software and configuration requirements related to such changes. In accordance with organization and divisional security directives, deploy, maintain, and enhance the security of server and desktop systems through administrative, preventive, detective, and reactive controls, such as change and configuration management, anti-virus measures, patch management, and system vulnerability scans. Provide technical support to helpdesk requests and prioritize support requirements in an appropriate manner based on level and severity of impact. Act as a project team lead/member and/or provide technical support for projects in support of client requirements, including developing specifications, evaluating options and developing project plans to ensure appropriate coordination and sequencing of tasks. Contribute in developing and maintaining system standards. Establish and manage reliable backup procedures for the systems in the environment. Ensure that complete system documentation is maintained and updated regularly. Plan and execute disaster recovery testing within the parameters established by client's DR/BCP Plan and in the event of a disaster, implement disaster recovery procedures to restore computer systems and networks. Keep current on new technology methods and systems by attending training classes, professional meetings and reading professional periodicals available in the department. May be required to complete various additional coursework or certifications outlined in the Competencies Summary as determined by the Manager, Technical Services. Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science (or technical discipline) and/or an equivalent combination of education, certifications and experience as required for the specific job level. 4+ years relevant work experience managing enterprise server and/or network infrastructure. Without a degree or industry certification, 7+ years related work experience Extensive knowledge and experience with Microsoft Server operating systems Extensive knowledge and experience with Microsoft enterprise infrastructure including Active Directory (AD), DNS, DHCP, file and print services. Knowledge and experience managing server and desktop virtualization with VMware Knowledge of WAN connectivity including MPLS and Metro-Ethernet Knowledge and experience managing enterprise messaging including Microsoft Exchange and mobile device management (MDM) systems Knowledge of network security principles, protocols and industry best practices Knowledge of various data encryption methods Knowledge and experience with data backup and recovery applications including network and disk-based backup solutions Knowledge and experience managing Cisco LAN/WAN hardware and its operating systems (Cisco IOS/NX-OS) Knowledge and understanding of firewalls and IDS/IPS Knowledge and experience implementing and managing various antivirus solutions Knowledge and/or experience of management of storage area networks (SAN) Knowledge and/or experience managing virtual private networks (VPN) Knowledge and experience in various network management and monitoring solutions Knowledge and experience managing telephony systems including VOIP Knowledge of data and telephony wiring to include category 3 and category 5/5e/6 twisted and fiber Ability to create relevant and readable graphs, charts, presentations, diagrams, proposals, reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals for a diverse audience Ability to provide explanation or instruction and respond to questions in one-on-one situations in person and over the phone Ability to understand and analyze financial and operational data Ability to read, analyze and interpret business periodicals, professional journals, and government regulations Ability to identify problems using systems logs and diagnostic tools Ability to analyze problems and develop solutions in a variety of situations Ability to interpret technical schematics and diagrams Ability to work independently and in a team environment depending on the situation Ability to prioritize tasks and complete daily job assignments Ability to organize workload to accommodate competing deadlines Ability to work productively and professionally under stress Ability to protect and maintain sensitive and confidential information Ability to interact effectively and professionally with all organizational levels - provided by Dice Systems, Engineer, LAN, WAN, Manager, Computer, Ethernet, Exchange, Cisco, VPN