Data Center SME - Secret Clearance

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Data Center SME to join a Federal Program working in Suffolk, VA. The Data Center SME will provide expert-level support for the JS J7 Joint Training DevSecOps pipeline core infrastructure and data center. This role requires deep technical expertise in virtualization, enterprise storage, and infrastructure architecture, with a broad understanding of integrated IT systems across compute, storage, network, security, and cloud platforms.

Responsibilities of the Data Center SME include:

·      Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of virtualized and hyperconverged environments.

·      Provide Tier 3 support and perform root cause analysis for complex infrastructure incidents.

·      Bridge technical silos by analyzing and integrating infrastructure across datacenter compute, network, storage, and cloud

·      Architect and support hybrid environments integrating on-prem, edge, and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure).

·      Develop and implement HA/DR strategies using storage replication, backup systems, and virtualization technologies.

·      Drive automation initiatives using tools such as PowerCLI, Ansible, and PowerShell.

·      Ensure compliance with security and configuration standards (e.g., DISA STIGs, CIS Benchmarks).

·      Advise engineering teams and stakeholders on data center modernization, cloud readiness, and emerging technologies.

·      Collaborate with cybersecurity, DevOps, and application teams to ensure performance and alignment across infrastructure layers.

·      Participate in the full system lifecycle including design, integration, testing, implementation, and operations & maintenance.

Qualifications for the Data Center SME include:

·      Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

·      12+ years of experience supporting enterprise IT systems, with a strong emphasis on virtualization and storage.

·      Expert-level proficiency with VMware vSphere/vCenter, ESXi, vSAN, and/or NSX.

·      Deep hands-on experience with enterprise storage platforms (block/file/object).

·      Familiarity with hyperconverged infrastructure (e.g., Nutanix, VxRail).

·      Proficiency in infrastructure scripting/automation (PowerShell, PowerCLI, etc.).

·      Understanding of network and security principles (firewalls, VLANs, zero trust models).

·      Strong documentation and presentation skills for technical and executive audiences.

·      Ability to lead technical teams and collaborate across IT domains.

·      Must possess one of the following IAT Level III certifications:

o  CISA

o  GSE

o  SCNCA

o  CISSP (or Associate)

o  GCIH

·      Functional area certification required prior to start date.

·      Must have an active Secret security clearance.

Compensation for the Data Center SME includes:

·      Salary Range: $180,000 - $225,000 depending on experience

·      Comprehensive Benefits: Cigna Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, PTO, Sick Leave if required by law, and Holidays

Keywords

Data Center SME, virtualization, enterprise storage, infrastructure architecture, VMware vSphere, Microsoft Hyper-V, NetApp, Dell EMC, Pure Storage, SAN, NAS, hyperconverged infrastructure, Nutanix, VxRail, PowerCLI, Ansible, PowerShell, Tier 3 support, root cause analysis, hybrid cloud, AWS, Azure, HA strategies, DR strategies, backup systems, system lifecycle, concept design, integration, testing, implementation, operations and maintenance, automation, capacity planning, performance monitoring, DISA STIGs, CIS Benchmarks, modernization, cloud readiness, software-defined infrastructure, AI-driven operations, cybersecurity, DevOps, application teams, technical advisor, Suffolk VA, on-prem infrastructure, edge computing, public cloud, private cloud, zero trust, VLANs, firewalls, documentation, presentation skills, technical leadership, collaboration, Secret clearance, IAT Level III, CISSP, CISA, GSE, SCNCA, GCIH,

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