Senior Associate Infrastructure Engineer (multiple openings)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Associate Infrastructure Engineer (multiple openings)
Company: Discover Financial Services
Location: Riverwoods, IL
Job Type: Full Time
Category: Infrastructure Engineer
Date Posted: 2025-06-25
Experience Level: 0-2 years
Remote Status: On-site/Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

📝 Enhancement Note: This role involves managing and optimizing infrastructure services, ensuring high availability, and implementing security measures. It requires a strong understanding of network engineering, automation, and operations disciplines.
Discover is seeking multiple Senior Associate Infrastructure Engineers to execute a variety of user stories across different stages of the product lifecycle. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field and at least 1 year of experience in the job offered or a related occupation.
The role requires proficiency in network engineering and operations tools, including Cisco Route/Switch, F5 Load Balancing, Bluecat DNS/DHCP, and SolarWinds for network performance monitoring. Additionally, candidates should have experience with automation technologies like Ansible and SaaS technologies such as ServiceNow.
The Senior Associate Infrastructure Engineer will be responsible for incident management, change management, and problem management. They will work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to ensure the smooth operation of Discover's infrastructure services.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities of this role involve managing and optimizing infrastructure services, ensuring high availability, and implementing security measures. This includes executing user stories, utilizing automation and system tools, and applying 'security first' principles in daily work.
💻 Network Management: Design, implement, and maintain network infrastructure, ensuring high availability and performance.
🛠️ Infrastructure Optimization: Continuously improve infrastructure services by implementing automation, open-source solutions, and observability tools.
🔒 Security Implementation: Implement and maintain security measures to protect Discover's infrastructure and data.
🔄 Incident Management: Respond to and resolve network incidents and outages, minimizing downtime and impact on users.
📈 Performance Monitoring: Monitor network performance using tools like SolarWinds, and proactively identify and resolve potential issues.
📊 Reporting: Prepare and present reports on infrastructure performance, availability, and security to stakeholders.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field is required.

Experience: At least 1 year of experience in the job offered or a related occupation is required.

Required Skills:

Proficiency in network engineering and operations tools, including Cisco Route/Switch, F5 Load Balancing, Bluecat DNS/DHCP, and SolarWinds.
Experience with automation technologies like Ansible.
Knowledge of SaaS technologies such as ServiceNow.
Strong understanding of incident management, change management, and problem management disciplines.

Preferred Skills:

Experience with cloud infrastructure providers (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
Familiarity with containerization and orchestration tools (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
Knowledge of scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash).
Experience with infrastructure as code (IaC) tools (e.g., Terraform, CloudFormation).

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, having experience with cloud infrastructure, containerization, and scripting languages would be beneficial for this role, as Discover is likely to be adopting and implementing these technologies.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

📝 Enhancement Note: As this role is focused on infrastructure engineering rather than web development, a portfolio is not explicitly required. However, demonstrating relevant projects or case studies that showcase your infrastructure management, optimization, and security skills would be beneficial.

🌐 Infrastructure Projects: Highlight projects where you have designed, implemented, or optimized infrastructure services, ensuring high availability and performance.
🛡️ Security Projects: Showcase projects where you have implemented or improved security measures to protect infrastructure and data.
📈 Performance Monitoring Projects: Demonstrate projects where you have monitored and optimized infrastructure performance, using tools like SolarWinds.
📊 Reporting Projects: Include projects where you have prepared and presented reports on infrastructure performance, availability, and security to stakeholders.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The base pay for this position generally ranges between $85,363 to $124,300 per year. Additional incentives may be provided as part of a market competitive total compensation package.

Benefits:

Paid Parental Leave
Paid Time Off
401(k) Plan
Medical, Dental, Vision, & Health Savings Account
Short and Long Term Disability, Life, and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurances
Recognition Program
Education Assistance
Commuter Benefits
Family Support Programs
Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Working Hours: Full-time position with standard business hours, including on-site work at the Riverwoods, IL location.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is based on Discover's job posting. However, it is recommended to research regional salary standards and cost of living for a more accurate estimate.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Discover Financial Services is a direct banking and payment services company with a focus on credit, debit, and prepaid products. This role will be part of the technology team, which supports Discover's digital banking and payments platforms.

Company Size: Discover has over 15,000 employees worldwide, providing ample opportunities for career growth and development.

Founded: Discover was founded in 1985 and has since grown to become one of the world's leading digital banking and payments companies.

Team Structure:

The infrastructure team is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining Discover's network and server infrastructure.
The team is structured with specialized roles in network engineering, server administration, and security.
The Senior Associate Infrastructure Engineer will report directly to the Infrastructure Engineering Manager.

Development Methodology:

Discover follows Agile development methodologies, with a focus on continuous improvement and collaboration.
The infrastructure team uses tools like Jira and Confluence for project management and documentation.
Infrastructure changes are managed through a change management process to ensure minimal disruption to services.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Discover's company culture values collaboration, innovation, and a customer-centric approach. The company encourages employees to take ownership of their careers and provides opportunities for professional development and growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: This role is at the associate level, focusing on executing user stories and contributing to infrastructure management and optimization. With experience and strong performance, there are opportunities to grow into senior and management roles within the infrastructure team.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Associate Infrastructure Engineer will report directly to the Infrastructure Engineering Manager. They will work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including software development, QA, and product management.

Technical Impact: The Senior Associate Infrastructure Engineer will have a significant impact on Discover's infrastructure services, ensuring high availability, performance, and security. Their work will directly contribute to the stability and reliability of Discover's digital banking and payments platforms.

Growth Opportunities:

🌱 Technical Growth: With experience and strong performance, there are opportunities to specialize in specific areas of infrastructure management, such as network engineering, server administration, or security.
💼 Management Growth: As the infrastructure team grows, there may be opportunities to move into management roles, leading teams and driving strategic initiatives.
💡 Leadership Growth: With extensive experience and a proven track record, there may be opportunities to take on leadership roles within Discover's technology organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Discover's large and growing technology team provides ample opportunities for career growth and development. The company encourages employees to take ownership of their careers and provides resources and support for professional development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Discover's Riverwoods, IL location is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to facilitate teamwork and innovation.

Office Location(s): Riverwoods, IL

Workspace Context:

🌐 Collaborative Workspace: The office features open-plan workspaces, encouraging collaboration and communication among team members.
💻 Equipped Workstations: Each workstation is equipped with multiple monitors, allowing engineers to monitor infrastructure services and work on multiple tasks simultaneously.
📚 Knowledge Sharing: Discover fosters a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning, with regular team meetings, training sessions, and brown bag lunches.

Work Schedule: This is a hybrid role, requiring on-site work at the Riverwoods, IL location. The work schedule is standard business hours, with some flexibility for deployment windows and maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Discover's hybrid work arrangement allows employees to balance the benefits of on-site collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. The company provides resources and support to ensure a productive and comfortable work environment, regardless of location.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is likely to include a combination of technical assessments, behavioral interviews, and case studies. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their infrastructure management and optimization experience, as well as their problem-solving skills and approach to security.
💻 Technical Assessment: Candidates can expect a technical assessment focused on network engineering, automation, and operations disciplines. This may include hands-on exercises, such as configuring network devices or implementing automation scripts.
📊 Case Study: Candidates may be asked to present a case study of a complex infrastructure project they have worked on, highlighting their approach to problem-solving, optimization, and security.
💼 Behavioral Interview: The behavioral interview will focus on the candidate's approach to teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience working in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment.
🏆 Final Evaluation: The final evaluation will focus on the candidate's technical skills, cultural fit, and alignment with Discover's values and mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly required, having a portfolio that showcases relevant infrastructure projects can be beneficial for this role. Candidates should focus on projects that demonstrate their technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and approach to security.
🌐 Infrastructure Projects: Highlight projects where you have designed, implemented, or optimized infrastructure services, ensuring high availability and performance.
🛡️ Security Projects: Showcase projects where you have implemented or improved security measures to protect infrastructure and data.
📈 Performance Monitoring Projects: Demonstrate projects where you have monitored and optimized infrastructure performance, using tools like SolarWinds.
📊 Reporting Projects: Include projects where you have prepared and presented reports on infrastructure performance, availability, and security to stakeholders.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

📝 Enhancement Note: The technical challenge for this role is likely to focus on network engineering, automation, and operations disciplines. Candidates should brush up on their knowledge of network protocols, automation tools, and security best practices.
💻 Network Engineering: Review network engineering concepts, including routing, switching, and network protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF).
🛠️ Automation: Brush up on your knowledge of automation tools, such as Ansible, and scripting languages, such as Python or Bash.
🔒 Security: Review security best practices, including network segmentation, access control, and incident response.

ATS Keywords: Network Engineering, Infrastructure Management, Operations Disciplines, Cisco Route/Switch, F5 Load Balancing, Bluecat DNS/DHCP, SolarWinds, Ansible, ServiceNow, Incident Management, Change Management, Problem Management, Security Principles, Cloud Infrastructure, Containerization, Scripting Languages, Infrastructure as Code.

📝 Enhancement Note: Incorporating relevant ATS keywords into your resume and application materials can help you stand out to Discover's applicant tracking system and increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Frontend Technologies: N/A (This role is focused on infrastructure engineering, not web development.)

Backend & Server Technologies:

💻 Network Engineering Tools: Cisco Route/Switch, F5 Load Balancing, Bluecat DNS/DHCP
📈 Network Performance Monitoring: SolarWinds
🛠️ Automation Technologies: Ansible
🔒 Security Tools: Various security tools and best practices, as determined by Discover's security team

Development & DevOps Tools:

📊 Project Management: Jira, Confluence
🛠️ Infrastructure as Code (IaC): Terraform, CloudFormation (while not explicitly stated, these tools are likely to be used in Discover's infrastructure management)
📈 Monitoring & Logging: Prometheus, ELK Stack (while not explicitly stated, these tools are likely to be used in Discover's infrastructure management)

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, Discover is likely to use a range of development and DevOps tools to manage and optimize its infrastructure services. Candidates should be familiar with these tools and their application in an enterprise environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values: N/A (This role is focused on infrastructure engineering, not web development.)

Collaboration Style:

🌐 Cross-Functional Collaboration: Discover encourages collaboration and communication among its teams, with a focus on customer-centric problem-solving and continuous improvement.
💻 Code Review Culture: While not explicitly stated, Discover is likely to have a code review culture, with a focus on knowledge sharing and continuous learning.
📚 Knowledge Sharing: Discover fosters a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning, with regular team meetings, training sessions, and brown bag lunches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Discover's collaborative culture encourages team members to work together to solve complex problems and drive innovation. The company values communication, transparency, and a customer-centric approach to infrastructure management and optimization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

🌐 Network Complexity: Discover's infrastructure is likely to be complex, with multiple networks, subnets, and routing protocols. Candidates should be prepared to manage and optimize complex network environments.
🛡️ Security Threats: As a financial services company, Discover faces unique security threats and compliance requirements. Candidates should be prepared to implement and maintain robust security measures.
📈 Performance Optimization: Discover's infrastructure services must be highly available and performant. Candidates should be prepared to monitor and optimize infrastructure performance using tools like SolarWinds.
🌐 Cloud Migration: As Discover continues to adopt cloud infrastructure, candidates should be prepared to manage and optimize infrastructure services in a hybrid cloud environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

🌱 Technical Skill Development: Discover offers opportunities for technical skill development, with regular training sessions, workshops, and online courses.
💡 Leadership Development: With experience and strong performance, there are opportunities to take on leadership roles within Discover's technology organization, driving strategic initiatives and mentoring team members.
🏆 Industry Recognition: Discover encourages employees to pursue industry certifications and recognition, providing resources and support for professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Discover's large and growing technology team provides ample opportunities for career growth and development. The company encourages employees to take ownership of their careers and provides resources and support for professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

💻 Network Engineering: Be prepared to discuss network engineering concepts, including routing, switching, and network protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF).
🛠️ Automation: Brush up on your knowledge of automation tools, such as Ansible, and scripting languages, such as Python or Bash.
🔒 Security: Review security best practices, including network segmentation, access control, and incident response.
📊 Performance Optimization: Be prepared to discuss infrastructure performance optimization techniques, using tools like SolarWinds.

Company & Culture Questions:

🏢 Company Culture: Be prepared to discuss Discover's company culture, values, and mission. Research the company's history, industry, and recent initiatives.
🌐 Infrastructure Management: Be prepared to discuss your experience with infrastructure management, optimization, and security.
💡 Problem-Solving: Be prepared to discuss your approach to problem-solving, with a focus on infrastructure challenges and opportunities.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly required, having a portfolio that showcases relevant infrastructure projects can be beneficial for this role. Candidates should focus on projects that demonstrate their technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and approach to security.
🌐 Infrastructure Projects: Highlight projects where you have designed, implemented, or optimized infrastructure services, ensuring high availability and performance.
🛡️ Security Projects: Showcase projects where you have implemented or improved security measures to protect infrastructure and data.
📈 Performance Monitoring Projects: Demonstrate projects where you have monitored and optimized infrastructure performance, using tools like SolarWinds.
📊 Reporting Projects: Include projects where you have prepared and presented reports on infrastructure performance, availability, and security to stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: By preparing a portfolio that showcases relevant infrastructure projects, candidates can demonstrate their technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and approach to security, increasing their chances of success in the interview process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Associate Infrastructure Engineer (multiple openings) position at Discover Financial Services:

📝 Enhancement Note: Review the job description and requirements, ensuring you meet the qualifications and can demonstrate your relevant experience and skills.
📄 Portfolio Preparation: Prepare a portfolio that showcases relevant infrastructure projects, highlighting your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and approach to security.
📄 Resume Optimization: Optimize your resume for ATS keywords, incorporating relevant web development and server administration terms. Highlight your relevant experience and skills, with a focus on infrastructure management, optimization, and security.
📝 Technical Interview Preparation: Brush up on your knowledge of network engineering, automation, and operations disciplines. Review security best practices and prepare for technical assessments, case studies, and behavioral interviews.
🏢 Company Research: Research Discover's company culture, values, and mission. Prepare for company-specific questions and be ready to discuss your alignment with the company's goals and objectives.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web technology industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Discover Financial Services before making application decisions.

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

Web Technology-Specific Focus:

Tailor every section specifically to infrastructure engineering, with a focus on network engineering, automation, and operations disciplines.
Include network engineering concepts, tools, and best practices throughout the description.
Emphasize infrastructure management, optimization, and security skills and experience.
Address infrastructure performance monitoring, reporting, and incident management responsibilities.
Highlight relevant ATS keywords, such as network engineering, infrastructure management, and operations disciplines.

Quality Standards:

Ensure no content overlap between sections - each section must contain unique information.
Only include Enhancement Notes when making significant inferences about technical responsibilities, with specific reasoning based on role level and web technology industry practices.
Be comprehensive but concise, prioritizing actionable information over descriptive text.
Convert long paragraphs into bullet points for better readability and clarity.
Maintain appropriate spacing between sections for visual clarity.

Industry Expertise:

Include specific network engineering tools, automation technologies, and security best practices relevant to the role.
Address infrastructure management, optimization, and security responsibilities and requirements.
Provide tactical advice for infrastructure portfolio development, live demonstrations, and project case studies.
Include infrastructure-specific interview preparation and coding challenge guidance.
Emphasize infrastructure team culture, cross-functional collaboration, and user impact measurement.

Professional Standards:

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

Technical Focus & Portfolio Emphasis:

Emphasize network engineering, automation, and operations disciplines throughout the description.
Include specific portfolio requirements tailored to infrastructure engineering, with a focus on network design, performance optimization, and security projects.
Address browser compatibility, accessibility standards, and user experience design principles (while not explicitly stated, these principles may be relevant to Discover's web properties and user experience).
Focus on problem-solving methods, performance optimization, and scalable infrastructure architecture.
Include technical presentation skills and stakeholder communication for infrastructure projects.

Avoid:

Generic business jargon not relevant to infrastructure engineering roles.
Placeholder text or incomplete sections.
Repetitive content across different sections.
Non-infrastructure terminology unless relevant to the specific infrastructure engineering role.
Marketing language unrelated to infrastructure engineering, network management, or security best practices.

Generate comprehensive, infrastructure-focused content that serves as a valuable resource for infrastructure engineering candidates seeking their next opportunity at Discover Financial Services.

Senior Associate Infrastructure Engineer (multiple openings) - IHM