Data Center Lead Engineer - TS/SCI with CI Poly

PGTEK

Chantilly, VA

JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$120,000–$150,000
SKILLS
Blade Servers, CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate, Communication Skills, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, Computer Science, Computer Security, Computer Storage Hardware, Consulting, Cross-Functional, Customer Relations, Customer Support/Service, Dell Computers, Dell Hardware, Dell PowerEdge Servers, Documentation, Driver's License, Hand Tools, ITIL (IT Infrastructure Library), Identify Issues, Information Technology & Information Systems, Juniper Networks Product Family, Leadership, Lift/Move 40 Pounds, Lifting Equipment, Linux Operating System, Microsoft Windows Server, Multiplatform/Cross-Platform, NetApp Storage Systems, Network Operations Center, Network Switching, Operating Systems, Presentation/Verbal Skills, SGI Systems, Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), Server Hardware, Technical Support, Top Secret Clearance, Virtualization, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Chantilly, VA
POSTED
30+ days ago

Data Center Lead Engineer (Dell Infrastructure Focus)

Location: Onsite (majority of the week)
Travel: Minimal
Clearance: Active DoD Top Secret / SCI with CI Poly required

Overview

We are seeking a Data Center Lead Engineer with strong Dell hardware expertise and a leadership mindset to support and help expand operations within a secure enterprise environment. You MUST have an active TS/SCI with CI Poly, or higher. This role offers a unique opportunity to take on-site ownership, build relationships with the existing team, and grow into a broader leadership and operational influence position.

The ideal candidate is both technically strong and adaptable—a hands-on “athlete” who can quickly learn and support technologies beyond their core expertise while helping guide team direction and customer engagement.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide hands-on support for data center infrastructure including servers, storage, and networking
  • Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, OS, and infrastructure issues across multiple platforms
  • Perform break/fix support, including component replacement and system diagnostics
  • Execute high-volume, low-impact tasks efficiently and accurately
  • Support installation, configuration, and upgrades of data center equipment
  • Manage and resolve escalations, removing blockers to maintain operational flow
  • Maintain accurate documentation of activities and system changes
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders across all levels
  • Develop familiarity with new technologies and expand beyond core Dell expertise
  • Contribute to on-site leadership presence, helping strengthen customer relationships and identify growth opportunities

Technical Environment

Primary Technologies:

  • Dell PowerEdge Servers (R-series, blade systems)
  • Dell PowerStore Storage
  • Dell Networking (Switches)

Additional / Supporting Technologies:

  • Brocade Switches (or equivalent Cisco networking knowledge)
  • HPE & SGI Servers
  • Juniper Switches
  • NetApp Storage
  • Spectra Logic Tape Systems

Requirements

  • Active DoD Top Secret clearance with SCI access and CI Polygraph
  • 3–5 years of relevant technical experience (or 5–7 years without a degree)
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • Strong hands-on experience with server hardware, storage, and networking
  • Ability to troubleshoot across multiple infrastructure domains
  • Experience in a data center operations environment
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record

Preferred Skills & Experience

  • Linux, Windows Server, virtualization, and storage experience
  • Familiarity with federal or defense IT environments
  • Experience working with data center tools and lifting equipment
  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and operate hand/power tools

Certifications (Preferred)

  • CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, or CASP
  • Cisco CCNA or Security certifications
  • ITIL v3 (or newer)

Benefits

Our comprehensive benefits package for full-time salaried employees is effective immediately upon the start date. Benefits include comprehensive PPO medical coverage with access to a Health Savings Account (HSA) option, a vision plan, and dental insurance with the base dental plan option paid for by PGTEK. Life Insurance, Short and Long-Term disability, and Critical Illness insurance have premiums covered. Additionally, PGTEK offers a matching 401(k) plan and a discount on pet insurance through ASPCA Pet Insurance. An Employee Assistance Program is available at no cost to all employees. PGTEK offers a generous amount of PTO and Holidays, and an Education Assistance Program is available after 12 months of employment.

Salary: 120-150K (based on experience)

ABOUT PGTEK:

PGTEK is a true consulting organization dedicated to helping clients achieve their business and technology objectives utilizing our decades of experience and business relationships. PGTEK invests in the educational advancements of our staff by providing the necessary resources to complete Professional and Business Certifications. Our company is our people, and we treat them like family.

EOE, including disability/veterans

About the Company

P

PGTEK

Ronald Podmilsak founded PGTEK in 2000 to provide IT professional services and geospatial analysis to the U.S. Intelligence Community and the Department of Defense. That same year, his son Scott Podmilsak founded Strategic Business Systems, Inc. (SBS), an IT Infrastructure services firm. Scott Podmilsak and his management team had tremendous success and in 2008 he sold SBS to Brocade Communications (NASDAQ: BRCD). In 2010 Scott Podmilsak joined PGTEK as the Chief Executive Officer and board member. Upon joining, Scott reassembled the relevant executive team that he had created at SBS. Together again, this seasoned team of executives have been applying the lessons learned in technology, operations, customer service, and employee morale to create a firm that greatly surpasses their last endeavor. Today, PGTEK is an industry leader in geospatial and datacenter technologies servicing both the commercial and federal market segments with innovative solutions

COMPANY SIZE
100 to 499 employees
INDUSTRY
Computer/IT Services
FOUNDED
2000
WEBSITE
http://www.pgtek.com