📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr. Systems Engineer
Company: Guidehouse
Location: Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Job Type: On-site
Category: System Administrator
Date Posted: June 24, 2025
Experience Level: 5-10 years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Key Responsibilities: Provide design, engineering, and administration services for a Law Enforcement Agency, supporting infrastructure systems on Windows-based platforms, and preparing recommendations for system improvement.
Key Skills: Windows Server Administration, Technical Writing, Active Directory, DHCP, DNS, TCP/IP, Group Policy, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, Citrix, Scripting Languages, Linux Administration, Cloud Providers, VMware, Data Center Infrastructure, System Improvement, Capacity Planning.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Support Infrastructure Systems: Maintain and support high availability, distributed, multi-clustered server infrastructure and systems on Windows-based platforms.
Server Infrastructure Analysis: Analyze, optimize, and plan server infrastructure capacity.
Technical Documentation: Create formal documentation such as architecture diagrams, technical designs, and SOPs.
Security Clearance: Maintain an active Top Secret security clearance and obtain a Top Secret/SCI clearance upon hire.
System Improvement: Prepare recommendations for system improvement for management and user consideration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in Windows Server Administration and experience working in a classified engineering environment. Familiarity with VMware, Citrix, and scripting languages is also crucial for success in this position.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of formal education and experience. Master’s Degree may be substituted for 4 years of general work experience.

Experience: Minimum 6 years of experience in engineering and/or deploying complex IT systems, with experience supporting 24/7 mission-critical data center infrastructure.

Required Skills:

Windows Server Administration
Technical Writing
Active Directory
DHCP, DNS, TCP/IP
Group Policy
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)
Citrix Workspace and Apps
Scripting languages (PowerShell, Python)
Linux administration
Cloud Providers such as AWS and Azure

Preferred Skills:

Virtual Datacenter experience supporting VMware vCenter and ESXi environments
Experience with Windows Desktop Administration
Knowledge of security protocols and compliance standards

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, experience with or willingness to learn about security protocols and compliance standards would be beneficial for this role, given the classified nature of the work environment.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate experience with Windows Server Administration, Active Directory, and Group Policy.
Showcase technical writing skills through architecture diagrams, technical designs, or SOPs.
Highlight experience supporting 24/7 mission-critical data center infrastructure.

Technical Documentation:

Prepare a portfolio showcasing your technical writing skills, including architecture diagrams, technical designs, or SOPs.
Include examples of system improvement recommendations you've prepared for previous roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: As this role involves working with classified information, it's essential to ensure that any portfolio materials submitted do not contain sensitive or proprietary information.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $98,000.00 - $163,000.00 per year. Compensation decisions depend on a wide range of factors, including skill sets, experience and training, security clearances, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.

Benefits:

Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
401(k) Retirement Plan
Basic Life & Supplemental Life
Health Savings Account, Dental/Vision & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
Student Loan PayDown
Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development & Learning Opportunities
Skills Development & Certifications
Employee Referral Program
Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
Emergency Back-Up Childcare Program
Mobility Stipend

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with potential for additional hours as needed to support 24/7 mission-critical data center infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles. Actual compensation may vary based on the factors mentioned above.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Guidehouse is a global leader in consulting, technology, and analytics, with a focus on public sector and commercial clients. This role will support a Law Enforcement Agency, requiring a strong understanding of security protocols and compliance standards.

Company Size: Guidehouse has over 10,000 employees worldwide, providing ample opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.

Founded: Guidehouse was founded in 2018, following the combination of PwC's Public Sector practice and Navigant's operations.

Team Structure:

The Systems Engineering team consists of experienced professionals responsible for designing, engineering, and administering complex IT systems.
The team works closely with other departments, such as Cybersecurity and IT Infrastructure, to ensure the security and reliability of the agency's systems.

Development Methodology:

Guidehouse follows Agile methodologies, with a focus on iterative development and continuous improvement.
The team uses version control systems, such as Git, and collaboration tools, such as Jira, to manage projects and track progress.
The company encourages a culture of learning and development, with opportunities for training and certification in emerging technologies.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Guidehouse's culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to public service. This role offers the opportunity to work on high-impact projects and contribute to the agency's mission.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Systems Engineer Career Level: This role is at the senior level, with a focus on providing technical leadership and mentorship to junior team members. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Windows Server Administration and experience working in a classified engineering environment.

Reporting Structure: The Sr. Systems Engineer reports directly to the Manager of Systems Engineering and works closely with other team members, as well as stakeholders from the Law Enforcement Agency.

Technical Impact: This role has a significant impact on the agency's IT infrastructure, ensuring the security, reliability, and performance of its systems. The Sr. Systems Engineer will be responsible for making critical decisions regarding system design, implementation, and maintenance.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Leadership: This role offers the opportunity to develop technical leadership skills, mentoring junior team members and contributing to the team's technical direction.
Emerging Technologies: Guidehouse encourages its employees to stay up-to-date with emerging technologies, providing opportunities for training and certification in areas such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
Career Progression: With Guidehouse's large and diverse client base, there are ample opportunities for career progression, both within the Systems Engineering team and across other practice areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant growth potential, with opportunities to develop technical leadership skills, gain experience with emerging technologies, and advance within the organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Guidehouse's offices are modern, collaborative workspaces designed to facilitate team interaction and knowledge sharing. The Washington, DC office is located in the heart of the city, with easy access to public transportation.

Office Location(s): Guidehouse's global headquarters is in Washington, DC, with additional offices in major cities across the United States and internationally.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Environment: The office features open workspaces, conference rooms, and breakout areas designed to encourage collaboration and communication among team members.
Technical Tools: Guidehouse provides its employees with access to the latest tools and technologies, including virtualization software, cloud platforms, and collaboration tools.
Cross-Functional Interaction: The Systems Engineering team works closely with other departments, such as Cybersecurity and IT Infrastructure, to ensure the security and reliability of the agency's systems.

Work Schedule: This role requires a standard 40-hour workweek, with potential for additional hours as needed to support 24/7 mission-critical data center infrastructure. The work schedule may include on-call rotations to provide 24/7 support.

📝 Enhancement Note: Guidehouse's work environment is designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to public service. The office is located in a convenient, accessible location, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone Screen: A brief phone call to discuss your experience, qualifications, and interest in the role.
Technical Assessment: A hands-on technical assessment, focusing on your Windows Server Administration skills, technical writing abilities, and familiarity with the agency's IT infrastructure.
On-site Interview: A face-to-face interview with the hiring manager and other team members to discuss your fit for the role, technical skills, and career goals.
Final Decision: A final decision will be made based on your performance throughout the interview process and your alignment with the team's technical and cultural needs.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Technical Writing: Highlight your technical writing skills by including examples of architecture diagrams, technical designs, or SOPs you've created for previous roles.
System Improvement Recommendations: Include examples of system improvement recommendations you've prepared for previous roles, demonstrating your ability to analyze complex systems and propose effective solutions.
Security Clearance: Ensure that any portfolio materials submitted do not contain sensitive or proprietary information, given the classified nature of the work environment.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Windows Server Administration: Brush up on your Windows Server Administration skills, focusing on areas such as Active Directory, DHCP, DNS, TCP/IP, and Group Policy.
Technical Writing: Practice creating architecture diagrams, technical designs, or SOPs, demonstrating your ability to document complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.
Security Protocols: Familiarize yourself with security protocols and compliance standards relevant to the Law Enforcement Agency's IT infrastructure.

ATS Keywords: Windows Server Administration, Technical Writing, Active Directory, DHCP, DNS, TCP/IP, Group Policy, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, Citrix, Scripting Languages, Linux Administration, Cloud Providers, VMware, Data Center Infrastructure, System Improvement, Capacity Planning, Security Clearance, Top Secret, Top Secret/SCI, Law Enforcement Agency, Mission-Critical Infrastructure, Technical Documentation, Architecture Diagrams, Technical Designs, SOPs, Portfolio, Interview Process, Technical Assessment, On-site Interview, Final Decision.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is designed to assess your technical skills, cultural fit, and alignment with the team's technical and cultural needs. By preparing thoroughly and demonstrating your expertise in Windows Server Administration and technical writing, you'll increase your chances of success in the interview process.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Windows Server Administration:

Active Directory: Experience with designing, implementing, and managing Active Directory environments.
DHCP, DNS, TCP/IP: Familiarity with configuring and managing DHCP, DNS, and TCP/IP protocols.
Group Policy: Experience with creating and managing Group Policy Objects (GPOs) to enforce security and compliance standards.
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI): Experience with implementing and managing VDI solutions, such as Citrix, to provide secure and remote access to virtual desktops and applications.

Technical Writing:

Architecture Diagrams: Experience creating architecture diagrams to document complex system designs and topologies.
Technical Designs: Familiarity with preparing technical designs that outline system requirements, components, and configuration details.
SOPs: Experience creating and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent and efficient system management.

Security Clearance:

Top Secret: Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance required for this role.
Top Secret/SCI: Upon hire, candidates must obtain a Top Secret/SCI (TS/SCI) security clearance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in Windows Server Administration and experience working in a classified engineering environment. Familiarity with VMware, Citrix, and scripting languages is also crucial for success in this position.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Windows Server Administration Values:

Security: Prioritize security in all aspects of Windows Server Administration, from user account management to system hardening and patch management.
Reliability: Ensure high availability and minimal downtime for the agency's IT infrastructure, with a focus on proactive maintenance and monitoring.
Performance: Optimize server performance through regular analysis, tuning, and capacity planning.
Collaboration: Work closely with other team members, stakeholders, and vendors to ensure the successful implementation and maintenance of the agency's IT infrastructure.

Technical Writing Values:

Clarity: Ensure that technical documentation is clear, concise, and easy to understand, with a focus on using simple language and visual aids to illustrate complex concepts.
Accuracy: Maintain accurate and up-to-date technical documentation, with a commitment to thorough review and quality assurance processes.
Consistency: Establish and maintain consistent formatting, styles, and templates for technical documentation, ensuring a cohesive and professional appearance.
Collaboration: Work closely with other team members, stakeholders, and subject matter experts to create accurate, comprehensive, and effective technical documentation.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: The Systems Engineering team works closely with other departments, such as Cybersecurity and IT Infrastructure, to ensure the security and reliability of the agency's IT infrastructure.
Code Review Culture: Encourage a culture of code review and peer programming, with a focus on knowledge sharing and continuous learning.
Mentoring and Development: Provide mentoring and development opportunities for junior team members, fostering a culture of growth and professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Guidehouse's culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to public service. This role offers the opportunity to work on high-impact projects and contribute to the agency's mission, while developing your technical skills and career prospects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Windows Server Administration Challenges:

Security: Address security vulnerabilities and compliance issues in complex Windows Server environments, with a focus on maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data.
Scalability: Design and implement scalable Windows Server infrastructure to support the agency's growing needs and ensure optimal performance under high loads.
Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve complex Windows Server issues, with a focus on minimizing downtime and ensuring the stability of the agency's IT infrastructure.

Technical Writing Challenges:

Complexity: Document complex technical concepts and system designs in a clear, concise, and easy-to-understand manner, with a focus on using simple language and visual aids to illustrate complex ideas.
Accuracy: Ensure that technical documentation is accurate, up-to-date, and free of errors, with a commitment to thorough review and quality assurance processes.
Consistency: Establish and maintain consistent formatting, styles, and templates for technical documentation, ensuring a cohesive and professional appearance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skills: Develop your technical skills in Windows Server Administration, technical writing, and emerging technologies, with opportunities for training, certification, and mentorship.
Leadership: Gain experience in technical leadership, mentoring junior team members, and contributing to the team's technical direction.
Career Progression: With Guidehouse's large and diverse client base, there are ample opportunities for career progression, both within the Systems Engineering team and across other practice areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant growth potential, with opportunities to develop technical leadership skills, gain experience with emerging technologies, and advance within the organization. By embracing challenges and seeking out learning opportunities, you'll position yourself for success in your career.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Windows Server Administration: Be prepared to discuss your experience with Windows Server Administration, with a focus on Active Directory, DHCP, DNS, TCP/IP, and Group Policy.
Technical Writing: Demonstrate your ability to create clear, concise, and accurate technical documentation, with examples of architecture diagrams, technical designs, or SOPs you've created for previous roles.
Security Protocols: Familiarize yourself with security protocols and compliance standards relevant to the Law Enforcement Agency's IT infrastructure, and be prepared to discuss your experience with security clearance and classified environments.

Company & Culture Questions:

Guidehouse Culture: Research Guidehouse's culture, values, and mission, and be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with the company's commitment to public service and collaboration.
Team Dynamics: Familiarize yourself with the Systems Engineering team's structure, dynamics, and technical focus, and be prepared to discuss your fit for the role and alignment with the team's technical and cultural needs.
Agency Context: Understand the Law Enforcement Agency's mission, goals, and technical requirements, and be prepared to discuss your ability to support and contribute to the agency's objectives.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Technical Writing: Highlight your technical writing skills by including examples of architecture diagrams, technical designs, or SOPs you've created for previous roles, demonstrating your ability to document complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.
System Improvement Recommendations: Include examples of system improvement recommendations you've prepared for previous roles, demonstrating your ability to analyze complex systems and propose effective solutions.
Security Clearance: Ensure that any portfolio materials submitted do not contain sensitive or proprietary information, given the classified nature of the work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is designed to assess your technical skills, cultural fit, and alignment with the team's technical and cultural needs. By preparing thoroughly and demonstrating your expertise in Windows Server Administration and technical writing, you'll increase your chances of success in the interview process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sr. Systems Engineer position at Guidehouse:

Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight your Windows Server Administration experience, technical writing skills, and familiarity with the agency's IT infrastructure. Include relevant keywords and phrases to optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your technical writing skills, including examples of architecture diagrams, technical designs, or SOPs you've created for previous roles. Ensure that any portfolio materials submitted do not contain sensitive or proprietary information, given the classified nature of the work environment.
Research the Company and Role: Familiarize yourself with Guidehouse's culture, values, and mission, as well as the Law Enforcement Agency's mission, goals, and technical requirements. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview process, demonstrating your interest in the role and commitment to the agency's objectives.
Practice Technical Interview Questions: Brush up on your Windows Server Administration skills, technical writing abilities, and familiarity with security protocols and compliance standards relevant to the Law Enforcement Agency's IT infrastructure. Practice answering technical interview questions to build confidence and refine your responses.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web development/server administration industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Sr. Systems Engineer