Azure Administrator

ARS is seeking an Azure Administrator (Windows/Linux) to provide technical support for cloud services, hosted applications, and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) in a government environment. This role serves as the frontline technical support contact for end-users while managing VDI technologies, troubleshooting system issues, and coordinating with specialized teams for complex problems. The ideal candidate will handle Tier 1 and Tier 2 support activities, maintain virtual machine environments, and ensure positive user experiences through responsive customer service and efficient incident management. An active TS/SCI security clearance is required for this position. This role requires employee pass background screening for SAP.Why Work with us?Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career- driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers.Responsibilities include:Serve as first point of contact for end-user technical support requests related to cloud services, hosted applications, and VDI functionality, providing responsive customer service and executing deep troubleshootingCreate, update, and maintain technical support tickets in Jira with accurate documentation, proper categorization, and tracking of resolution times to maintain SLA complianceEscalate complex issues to Tier 2/3 support teams, SREs, and Platform Engineers with comprehensive documentation, coordinating with Development, DevOps, and Architecture teams for resolutionManage VDI technologies including troubleshooting and repairing User Virtual Machines (UVMs), building and deploying base images for supported operating systems, and patching running UVMsBuild, package, deploy, and manage Salt States to install applications in virtual machines, operating the Salt Master for application deployment across the VDI environmentMonitor system performance, identify patterns indicating systemic issues, and support maintenance windows with user communication during planned outagesMaintain and update knowledge base articles, contribute to support procedures and troubleshooting guides, and participate in continuous service improvement initiativesWork with cloud providers for Tier 1 and Tier 2 support issues, escalating Tier 3+ issues appropriatelyOther duties as assignedTechnical Experience & QualificationsMust be US CitizenEducation: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related technical fieldAZ-104 certificationExperience: Minimum 3 years of professional experience in help desk, technical support, operations, or IT customer service rolesSecurity Clearance: Active TS/SCI clearance (Required)Administration, back up and recovery of Jira, Confluence and Gitlab experienceVDI Experience: Hands-on experience with Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) technologies; Azure Virtual Desktop experience preferredConfiguration Management: Experience with configuration management tools such as Salt, Ansible, Chef, or PuppetTicketing Systems: Proficiency with Jira or similar ticketing and incident management systemsCloud Platforms: Working knowledge of Azure cloud services; experience supporting cloud-based applicationsOperating Systems: Strong troubleshooting skills in Windows and Linux environmentsVirtual Machines: Experience building, deploying, and maintaining virtual machine images and environmentsCustomer Service: Proven track record of providing excellent customer service and technical supportDocumentation: Strong written communication skills for creating clear technical documentation and knowledge base articlesProblem-Solving: Excellent troubleshooting and analytical skills with ability to resolve issues efficientlyCommunication: Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with end-users and technical teamsAll positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check.This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability, and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans, and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.