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.

• 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