Azure Systems Engineer

Azure Systems Engineer This is a fully remote position. PURPOSE The Azure Systems Engineer plays a key role in designing, deploying, and maintaining secure, scalable, and automated cloud infrastructure solutions within the client's Azure ecosystem. This position combines advanced systems engineering and automation expertise with strong collaboration, Agile delivery participation, and client-facing communication. The engineer will contribute to infrastructure modernization, hybrid environment optimization, and enterprise-level cloud strategy. Acting as a bridge between architecture, engineering, and client delivery, the role ensures that cloud solutions are reliable, efficient, and aligned with business goals. RESPONSIBILITIES Infrastructure Engineering & Cloud Implementation Design, configure, and deploy Azure infrastructure components, including computer, storage, networking, and security services. Build and manage hybrid and cloud-native systems using Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools such as Terraform, Bicep, or ARM templates. Implement automated deployment and configuration pipelines using GitHub Actions, Azure DevOps, or Ansible. Support cloud modernization and migration initiatives including virtualization, containerization (Docker, Podman, Talos), and Kubernetes cluster deployments. Administer and optimize Azure Entra ID (AAD), SSO configurations, and application identity integrations. Systems Administration & Operations Configure and manage Windows and Linux servers across cloud and on-premises environments. Monitor system performance using programs such as Grafana, Graylog, Wazuh, and Uptime Kuma to ensure high availability, uptime, and security. Design, configure, and maintain enterprise network infrastructure (Cisco, Palo Alto, VyOS) including VPNs, VLANs, DNS, and firewall rules. Develop and maintain automation scripts in PowerShell, Bash, and Python to streamline infrastructure tasks. Manage internal certificate authorities (CAs), group policies, and endpoint security configurations. Migration & Implementation Develop detailed migration roadmaps and execution plans to transition workloads from on-premises or other environments to Azure. Lead complex migration and modernization projects leveraging automation and DevOps frameworks. Provide technical mentorship to implementation teams throughout the solution lifecycle. Conduct environment readiness assessments, security evaluations, and performance optimizations to ensure smooth deployment. Agile Team Collaboration Actively participate in Agile ceremonies (daily standups, sprint planning, retrospectives) and collaborate within cross-functional delivery teams. Partner with architects, DevOps engineers, and application teams to prioritize user stories, refine technical tasks, and ensure sprint deliverables meet client and project objectives. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on velocity, automation maturity, and quality outcomes. Support backlog grooming, documentation updates, and post-implementation reviews to ensure lessons learned drive improvement. Client and Stakeholder Engagement Communicate effectively with clients to gather requirements, discuss design considerations, and provide technical updates throughout project lifecycles. Deliver clear, concise explanations of technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and management teams. Represent the Professional Services organization in client meetings, offering insights into infrastructure design, cloud strategy, and best practices. Collaborate with business partners to align technology solutions with the client’s enterprise goals and client success metrics. Security & Compliance Lead or contribute to cloud and system security remediation projects to meet compliance frameworks such as CMMC and corporate security standards. Deploy and maintain endpoint protection, logging, and alerting systems for proactive incident response. Implement network segmentation, access control, and encryption to maintain a Zero Trust security posture. MINIMUM SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience). 5+ years of experience in systems engineering, infrastructure management, or cloud operations, including 3+ years with Azure environments. Proficiency with Azure Resource Manager (ARM), Terraform, Ansible, and Bicep for infrastructure automation. Hands-on experience managing both Windows Server and Linux environments. Deep knowledge of Azure networking, identity (AAD/Entra ID), security, and monitoring services. Experience with CI/CD pipelines (Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions) and version control (Git). Skilled in scripting and automation using PowerShell, Bash, and Python. Proven ability to work within Agile/Scrum frameworks, collaborating closely with technical and non-technical team members. Strong communication and relationship-building skills in client-facing roles. PREFERRED SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, Azure Solutions Architect Expert, or DevOps Engineer Expert. Experience implementing Azure monitoring, governance, and policy frameworks. Familiarity with Microsoft IoT and its integration within Azure-based infrastructure. Experience with SQL systems (MSSQL, MySQL, PostgreSQL) for system and application support. Familiarization with MongoDB or Quadrant databases and their integration within distributed infrastructure environments. Working knowledge of network automation, GitOps, and observability platforms. Familiarity with on-prem virtualization platforms (VMware vSphere, Proxmox) Starting Compensation Range: $120,000 per year The salary for this position is commensurate with experience, skills, and qualifications. The range is intended to reflect our commitment to attracting top talent, and the final offer will be based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's previous experience, expertise in the field, relevant certifications, and the specific requirements of the role. In addition, internal equity, market trends, and geographic location may also influence the final salary. At Ascend Technologies we firmly believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not only fundamental values but also powerful drivers of innovation, growth, and success. We are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered. CORE VALUES We are seeking highly motivated individuals who have the willingness and ability to demonstrate Ascend core values: Committed to Client Success: Our actions and our words always align with the best interest of the client. One Team: We work collaboratively to overcome challenges with humility and respect and do what it takes to find innovative solutions. Integrity: We are unquestionably committed to doing the right thing even when it is hard. Accountability: We hold ourselves and each other accountable for keeping our commitments to our clients, our communities, and one another. Transparency: We create open lines of communication with each other and our clients, fostering relationships founded on candor and trust. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Must be able to sit, stand, and bend for the duration of shift. The position is mainly sitting, with occasional lifting up to 50 lbs, such as laptop, server equipment, and, driving to the work site to meet with client(s).