Role OverviewPosition: Lead / Senior Systems Engineer
Reports To: Director of IT
Location: Princeton, NJ (occasional travel to NY office and colocation facilities)
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt, Permanent
This position plays a key role in designing, implementing, and maintaining the organization’s core IT infrastructure, focusing primarily on Windows-based systems and associated technologies.
The role balances project-based initiatives with daily operational responsibilities, including end-user desktop support.
As part of a lean IT team, this individual must be equally comfortable managing backend systems and resolving front-line user issues.
Company CultureThe organization emphasizes a tight-knit, high-performance, and collaborative environment.
They pride themselves on:
A fast-paced, high-energy team culture
A proactive, forward-thinking, and continuous learning mindset
Staff who are self-motivated yet collaborative
Direct access to management and a broad view of business operations
Integrated departmental collaboration with shared goals
A commitment to confidentiality and discretion
Note: The company has very low turnover — employees tend to stay long-term.
The previous individual in this role was promoted internally.
Key ResponsibilitiesThe Senior Systems Engineer will:
Design, deploy, and maintain Windows-based infrastructure (Server 2022, Windows 11)
Manage and optimize hybrid cloud environments (Microsoft Entra ID / Azure AD)
Support file systems, share permissions, and NTFS security configurations
Engineer and maintain virtualization platforms (VMware vCenter, virtual networking, performance tuning)
Administer networking and security for Microsoft-centric environments
Collaborate cross-functionally to evaluate and implement new technologies
Provide end-user support as needed, ensuring reliability and uptime
Participate in off-hours maintenance and on-call rotation
Maintain cybersecurity best practices across systems and endpoints
Core Technical Focus AreasCybersecurity Awareness & Responsibility
Identify and mitigate security risks across cloud and on-premises systems
Operate within a multi-layered cybersecurity framework
Support identity protection, EDR, email security, firewalls, and related tools
Collaborate on new security technology evaluations and implementations
Maintain a security-first mindset while balancing operational needs
Core Infrastructure & Systems Engineering
Advanced knowledge of Windows Server 2022 and Windows 11
Deep experience with Microsoft Entra ID / Azure AD, including conditional access and synchronization
File system engineering and NTFS permission management
Hands-on expertise with VMware vCenter, including networking and storage
Networking & Security
Administer and support Microsoft-centric networks
Configure and manage Cisco Catalyst/Nexus switches and firewalls
Apply Zero Trust principles and secure remote access strategies
Oversee endpoint protection, patch management, and identity-based security
Messaging & Communication Platforms
Engineer and troubleshoot SMTP flow and message delivery
Support Exchange and mobile messaging systems
Administer VoIP and telephony systems, including provisioning
Desktop Engineering & End-User Support
Troubleshoot complex desktop and endpoint issues
Support Microsoft Office applications and hardware (workstations, printers, phones)
Perform proactive monitoring and maintenance of systems and networks
Systems Management & Optimization
Monitor and improve infrastructure performance and efficiency
Evaluate backup and replication strategies (hardware/software)
Implement consistent monitoring and alerting frameworks
Qualifications
7+ years of hands-on systems engineering and support experience
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Relevant IT certifications (systems, networking, storage, virtualization, or governance) are a plus
Strong communication, documentation, and problem-solving skills
Comfortable handling IT equipment up to 25 lbs
Equal Opportunity StatementThis organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local laws.