📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal IT Infrastructure Engineer (d/m/w)
Company: Haufe Group
Location: Freiburg im Breisgau, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Job Type: Full-time (Hybrid)
Category: DevOps / System Administration
Date Posted: 2025-08-02
Experience Level: 5-10 years
Remote Status: On-site/Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

Lead the maintenance, optimization, and development of central IT infrastructure areas such as network, server, storage, virtualization, backup, and cloud.
Analyze, resolve, and document complex incidents and disturbances, ensuring high system availability and performance.
Plan and implement infrastructure projects, including migrations, upgrades, integrations, and automation.
Collaborate with internal teams, external service providers, and manufacturers to ensure efficient IT operations and security.
Create technical concepts, operation manuals, and architecture documentation to support the team and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a broad range of technical expertise and experience in multiple IT infrastructure areas. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in server administration, network design, virtualization, and cloud platforms, with a proven track record of managing complex IT environments.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Infrastructure Management: Maintain, optimize, and develop central IT infrastructure areas, ensuring high system availability and performance.
Incident Management: Analyze, resolve, and document complex incidents and disturbances, minimizing downtime and service interruptions.
Project Management: Plan and implement infrastructure projects, including migrations, upgrades, integrations, and automation, to meet business requirements and improve IT services.
Stakeholder Communication: Collaborate with internal teams, external service providers, and manufacturers to ensure efficient IT operations, security, and compliance.
Documentation: Create and maintain technical concepts, operation manuals, and architecture documentation to support the team and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently or in a team to manage complex IT infrastructure projects and ensure high system availability and performance.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A completed degree in computer science, informatics, or a comparable qualification.

Experience: At least 5 years of professional experience in IT infrastructure, ideally in an enterprise environment.

Required Skills:

Proven expertise in multiple IT infrastructure areas, such as:
- Windows and/or Linux server administration
- Network design (LAN/WAN, VPN, firewalls, load balancers)
- Virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V, KVM)
- Cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud)
- Storage and backup solutions (NetApp, Veeam, Commvault)
- Automation and scripting (PowerShell, Bash, Ansible, Terraform)
Familiarity with ITIL processes and ticket management systems
Excellent communication and teamwork skills in German and English (C1 level)

Preferred Skills:

Experience with IT service management tools (e.g., ServiceNow, Jira Service Management)
Knowledge of IT security and compliance best practices
Familiarity with containerization and orchestration tools (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)

📝 Enhancement Note: The ideal candidate will have a strong background in multiple IT infrastructure areas and a proven track record of managing complex IT environments. Experience with IT service management tools, IT security, and containerization will be a plus.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate a strong understanding of IT infrastructure management by showcasing relevant projects and achievements.
Highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to manage complex incidents and disturbances.
Showcase your experience with IT infrastructure projects, including migrations, upgrades, integrations, and automation.
Provide examples of your technical documentation, such as technical concepts, operation manuals, and architecture documentation.

Technical Documentation:

Code quality, commenting, and documentation standards for scripts and automation tools.
Version control, deployment processes, and server configuration management.
Testing methodologies, performance metrics, and optimization techniques for IT infrastructure components.

📝 Enhancement Note: The ideal candidate will have a well-structured portfolio showcasing their experience in IT infrastructure management, problem-solving, and project implementation. Technical documentation should demonstrate attention to detail and a commitment to knowledge sharing.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: €70,000 - €90,000 per year (based on experience and qualifications)

Benefits:

Flexible working hours and hybrid work environment.
Professional development opportunities, including training and certifications.
A dynamic and collaborative work environment in a growing company.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexible scheduling and the possibility of working from home.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on market research for IT infrastructure roles in Germany. The actual salary may vary depending on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and negotiation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

Company Culture:

Industry: Software and IT services
Company Size: Medium (1,000-5,000 employees)
Founded: 1954
Team Structure: The IT infrastructure team consists of experienced professionals with diverse expertise in server administration, network design, virtualization, and cloud platforms. The team works collaboratively to ensure efficient IT operations and high system availability.
Development Methodology: The team follows ITIL processes and best practices for incident, problem, and change management. They also use Agile methodologies for project management and continuous improvement.

Company Website: https://www.haufegroup.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The Haufe Group is a family-owned company with a strong focus on employee development and work-life balance. The IT infrastructure team is a critical part of the organization, ensuring efficient IT operations and supporting the company's growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

IT Infrastructure Career Level: This role is at the senior level, requiring a high degree of expertise and experience in multiple IT infrastructure areas. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of managing complex IT environments and driving infrastructure projects to meet business requirements.

Reporting Structure: The Principal IT Infrastructure Engineer reports directly to the Head of IT Infrastructure and works closely with other IT teams, including IT operations, IT security, and IT development.

Technical Impact: This role has a significant impact on the company's IT infrastructure, ensuring high system availability, performance, and security. The Principal IT Infrastructure Engineer plays a crucial role in driving infrastructure projects, managing incidents, and maintaining efficient IT operations.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Growth: Expand your expertise in emerging technologies, such as containerization, microservices, and cloud-native architectures.
Leadership Development: Develop your leadership skills by mentoring junior team members, driving infrastructure projects, and contributing to strategic decision-making.
Architecture and Design: Gain experience in IT architecture and design, contributing to the development of the company's IT roadmap and strategic initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Principal IT Infrastructure Engineer role offers significant opportunities for technical and leadership growth within the IT infrastructure team. The ideal candidate will be eager to expand their expertise, take on new challenges, and contribute to the company's success.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, collaborative office space with state-of-the-art technology and comfortable workstations.

Office Location: Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

Workspace Context:

The office provides a collaborative work environment, with dedicated spaces for team meetings, workshops, and informal discussions.
Each workstation is equipped with multiple monitors, testing devices, and development tools to support efficient work.
The office is easily accessible by public transportation, with nearby parking facilities available.

Work Schedule: Flexible working hours with the possibility of working from home. The core working hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a one-hour lunch break.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Haufe Group offers a modern and collaborative work environment, with flexible working hours and the possibility of working from home. The office is centrally located and easily accessible, providing a comfortable and productive workspace for IT professionals.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone/Video Screen: A brief conversation to discuss your experience, motivation, and expectations for the role.
Technical Assessment: A hands-on technical assessment, focusing on your expertise in IT infrastructure management, problem-solving, and project implementation.
On-site Interview: A face-to-face interview with the hiring manager and other team members to discuss your technical skills, cultural fit, and career aspirations.
Final Decision: A final decision will be made based on your technical skills, cultural fit, and the overall alignment with the company's goals and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight your experience with IT infrastructure management, problem-solving, and project implementation.
Showcase your technical documentation, demonstrating attention to detail and a commitment to knowledge sharing.
Emphasize your ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, external service providers, and manufacturers to ensure efficient IT operations and security.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on your knowledge of IT infrastructure management, including server administration, network design, virtualization, and cloud platforms.
Familiarize yourself with ITIL processes and ticket management systems.
Prepare for questions about your experience with IT infrastructure projects, including migrations, upgrades, integrations, and automation.

ATS Keywords: (Organized by category)

Programming Languages: Bash, PowerShell, Python, Ansible, Terraform
Web Frameworks: N/A
Server Technologies: Windows, Linux, VMware, Hyper-V, KVM, Azure, AWS, Google Cloud
Databases: N/A
Tools: NetApp, Veeam, Commvault, ServiceNow, Jira Service Management
Methodologies: ITIL, Agile, Scrum
Soft Skills: Problem-solving, communication, teamwork, leadership
Industry Terms: IT infrastructure, network administration, server administration, cloud platforms, virtualization, backup solutions, automation, scripting

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for the Principal IT Infrastructure Engineer role is designed to assess your technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit. By preparing thoroughly and showcasing your experience with IT infrastructure management, you will increase your chances of success in the interview process.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Frontend Technologies: N/A

Backend & Server Technologies:

Windows Server 2016/2019/2022
Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, Debian)
VMware vSphere 6.7/7.0
Hyper-V (Windows Server 2016/2019/2022)
KVM (Proxmox, oVirt)
Azure, AWS, Google Cloud

Development & DevOps Tools:

Ansible (version control, automation, configuration management)
Terraform (infrastructure as code, provisioning, deployment)
PowerShell (scripting, automation, task automation)
Bash (scripting, automation, task automation)
ServiceNow (IT service management, incident, problem, change management)
Jira Service Management (IT service management, incident, problem, change management)

📝 Enhancement Note: The Haufe Group uses a wide range of server technologies, virtualization platforms, and cloud providers to ensure efficient IT operations and high system availability. The Principal IT Infrastructure Engineer role requires expertise in multiple IT infrastructure areas and the ability to manage complex IT environments.

👥 Team Culture & Values

IT Infrastructure Values:

Customer Focus: Prioritize the needs and expectations of internal and external customers, ensuring efficient IT operations and high system availability.
Collaboration: Work closely with internal teams, external service providers, and manufacturers to ensure efficient IT operations, security, and compliance.
Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and improve IT processes, tools, and technologies to drive efficiency and innovation.
Proactivity: Anticipate and address potential issues before they become critical, minimizing downtime and service interruptions.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with internal teams, including IT operations, IT security, and IT development, to ensure efficient IT operations and support business goals.
Peer Support: Collaborate with team members to share knowledge, skills, and best practices, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Stakeholder Communication: Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring clear expectations, timely updates, and transparent decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Haufe Group values a collaborative and customer-focused approach to IT infrastructure management. The Principal IT Infrastructure Engineer role requires strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to ensure efficient IT operations and high system availability.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

IT Infrastructure Management: Maintain, optimize, and develop central IT infrastructure areas, ensuring high system availability and performance.
Incident Management: Analyze, resolve, and document complex incidents and disturbances, minimizing downtime and service interruptions.
Project Management: Plan and implement infrastructure projects, including migrations, upgrades, integrations, and automation, to meet business requirements and improve IT services.
Security and Compliance: Ensure IT infrastructure security and compliance with relevant standards and regulations, including data protection and privacy.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skill Development: Expand your expertise in emerging technologies, such as containerization, microservices, and cloud-native architectures.
Leadership Development: Develop your leadership skills by mentoring junior team members, driving infrastructure projects, and contributing to strategic decision-making.
Architecture and Design: Gain experience in IT architecture and design, contributing to the development of the company's IT roadmap and strategic initiatives.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

IT Infrastructure Management: Describe your experience with IT infrastructure management, including server administration, network design, virtualization, and cloud platforms.
Incident Management: How do you approach analyzing, resolving, and documenting complex incidents and disturbances? Provide examples from your previous experience.
Project Management: Walk us through an infrastructure project you've managed, highlighting your approach to planning, implementation, and stakeholder communication.
Security and Compliance: How do you ensure IT infrastructure security and compliance with relevant standards and regulations? Provide examples from your previous experience.

Company & Culture Questions:

IT Infrastructure Team: How do you collaborate with internal teams, external service providers, and manufacturers to ensure efficient IT operations, security, and compliance?
ITIL Processes: How do you implement and follow ITIL processes and best practices for incident, problem, and change management?
Agile Methodologies: How do you apply Agile methodologies for project management and continuous improvement in IT infrastructure?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Technical Concepts: Highlight your experience with IT infrastructure management, problem-solving, and project implementation by presenting technical concepts, operation manuals, and architecture documentation.
Incident Management: Showcase your ability to analyze, resolve, and document complex incidents and disturbances by presenting real-life examples and best practices.
Stakeholder Communication: Demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders by presenting clear, concise, and actionable information.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal IT Infrastructure Engineer (d/m/w) position:

Update Your Resume: Highlight your experience with IT infrastructure management, problem-solving, and project implementation. Include relevant keywords and skills, such as server administration, network design, virtualization, and cloud platforms.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Showcase your experience with IT infrastructure management, problem-solving, and project implementation. Include technical concepts, operation manuals, and architecture documentation.
Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with the Haufe Group's industry, company culture, and IT infrastructure team. Understand their approach to IT service management, Agile methodologies, and stakeholder communication.
Practice Technical Challenges: Brush up on your knowledge of IT infrastructure management, including server administration, network design, virtualization, and cloud platforms. Prepare for questions about your experience with IT infrastructure projects, including migrations, upgrades, integrations, and automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Principal IT Infrastructure Engineer role requires a strong background in IT infrastructure management, problem-solving, and project implementation. By updating your resume, preparing your portfolio, and researching the company, you will increase your chances of success in the application process.

Content Guidelines (IMPORTANT: Do not include this in the output)

Web Technology-Specific Focus:

Tailor every section specifically to IT infrastructure management, server administration, and DevOps roles.
Include IT infrastructure management methodologies, server administration best practices, and DevOps tools and practices.
Emphasize IT infrastructure project management, incident management, and security and compliance.
Address IT infrastructure team dynamics, cross-functional collaboration with IT operations, IT security, and IT development.
Provide tactical advice for IT infrastructure portfolio development, live demonstrations, and project case studies.

Quality Standards:

Ensure no content overlap between sections - each section must contain unique information.
Only include Enhancement Notes when making significant inferences about IT infrastructure management, server administration, and DevOps processes.
Be comprehensive but concise, prioritizing actionable information over descriptive text.
Strategically distribute IT infrastructure management, server administration, and DevOps-related keywords throughout all sections naturally.
Provide realistic salary ranges based on location, experience level, and IT infrastructure management specialization.

Industry Expertise:

Include specific IT infrastructure management, server administration, and DevOps tools, technologies, and methodologies relevant to the role.
Address IT infrastructure career progression paths and technical leadership opportunities in IT infrastructure management teams.
Provide tactical advice for IT infrastructure portfolio development, live demonstrations, and project case studies.
Include IT infrastructure management-specific interview preparation and coding challenge guidance.
Emphasize IT infrastructure security, compliance, and best practices for incident management and project implementation.

Professional Standards:

Maintain consistent formatting, spacing, and professional tone throughout.
Use IT infrastructure management, server administration, and DevOps industry terminology appropriately and accurately.
Include comprehensive benefits and growth opportunities relevant to IT infrastructure management professionals.
Provide actionable insights that give IT infrastructure management candidates a competitive advantage.
Focus on IT infrastructure team culture, cross-functional collaboration, and user impact measurement.

Technical Focus & Portfolio Emphasis:

Emphasize IT infrastructure management best practices, server administration principles, and DevOps tools and methodologies.
Include specific portfolio requirements tailored to the IT infrastructure management discipline and role level.
Address IT infrastructure project management, incident management, and security and compliance.
Focus on problem-solving methods, performance optimization, and scalable IT architecture.
Include technical presentation skills and stakeholder communication for IT infrastructure projects.

Avoid:

Generic business jargon not relevant to IT infrastructure management, server administration, or DevOps roles.
Placeholder text or incomplete sections.
Repetitive content across different sections.
Non-technical terminology unless relevant to the specific IT infrastructure management role.
Marketing language unrelated to IT infrastructure management, server administration, or DevOps.

Generate comprehensive, IT infrastructure management-focused content that serves as a valuable resource for IT infrastructure management candidates seeking their next opportunity and preparing for technical interviews in the IT infrastructure management industry.

Principal IT Infrastructure Engineer (d/m/w)