Job #316.1 - IT Support Specialist II

We seek a talented and experienced IT Support Specialist II to join our IT team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in providing technical support for server administration (Windows Server, DNS, endpoint protection) and experience in laptop setup and image management. As an IT Support Specialist II, you will play a key role in maintaining our IT systems and infrastructure's stability, security, and efficiency to support our organization's operations and business objectives. Responsibilities:

• Provide technical support and troubleshooting assistance to end-users for hardware, software, and network-related issues.
• Assist with laptop setup, configuration, and deployment, including software installation, user account setup, and device imaging.
• Troubleshooting and managing VPN-related laptop connectivity issues.
• Manage and maintain laptop images, ensuring consistency, security, and compliance with organizational standards and policies.
• Create/maintain PowerShell scripts.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement and support IT projects, upgrades, and initiatives, ensuring alignment with business requirements and objectives.
• Conduct routine maintenance, updates, and patches for IT systems, applications, and infrastructure to mitigate vulnerabilities and ensure reliability and stability.
• Monitor and respond to security alerts, incidents, and vulnerabilities, implementing appropriate remediation measures and security controls.
• Document IT systems, processes, configurations, and troubleshooting procedures to ensure accuracy, completeness, and accessibility for end-users and IT staff.
• Provide training and technical guidance to end-users and colleagues on IT systems, tools, and best practices to promote user productivity and adoption of IT solutions.

Requirements:

• Strong technical skills and hands-on experience with laptop setup, imaging, and management using tools such as Microsoft SCCM or similar.
• Knowledge of network protocols, TCP/IP, routing, and VLANs, and experience in troubleshooting network connectivity issues and performance optimization.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity principles, best practices, and tools, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and antivirus software.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including communicating technical information effectively to non-technical users and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex technical issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions on time
• Experience in an AWS Server environment is a plus!

Experience/Education:

• At least three (3) years of experience providing IT support in performing day-to-day operational maintenance and installation support of end-user Windows and Mac laptops.
• Bachelor's degree in Comp Sci, Information Technology, or related field preferred

Equivalent Combination of Education and Experience:

• Eight years of additional work experience in IT support roles can substitute for the bachelor's degree requirement

General:

• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize workload based on the needs of the client
• Ability to deal with ambiguity and frequent changes in priorities
• Ability to work with minimal supervision
• Excellent technical writing skills and proven experience in systems with complex requirements
• Excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills with the ability to team with others to meet project objectives
• Understanding of the system development lifecycle as implemented with Agile; SAFe knowledge a plus

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to navigate in an office se ting unassisted
• Must be able to lift up to 10 pounds
• Strong speaking skills, including the ability to articulate thoughtsin a clear manner andexcellent word enunciation skillsare required

Additional Information about this opening:

• Employees of Next Phase shall, as an enduring obligation throughout their term of employment, adhere to all information security requirements as documented in company policies and procedures
• Enjoy the flexibility of ahybrid work environment, with three days in the office per week (Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday) and two days working remotely
• We are committed to your professional growth, providing opportunities for advancement and exposure to exciting projects and initiatives
• This position is suited for candidateswithin commuting distance to Columbia, MDand not eligible for a fully remote schedule
• As a healthcare and science research company, Next Phase embraces the recommendations from the CDC regarding vaccines for highly infectious diseases. Unless qualified for a religious or medical exemption, employees are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

We offer a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package, and professional growth and development opportunities. If you meet the above requirements and are looking for a challenging and rewarding career opportunity, please submit your application for consideration. The pay range for this job level is a general guideline only, not a compensation or salary guarantee. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other laws.

ABOUT NEXT PHASE SOLUTIONS AND SERVICES, INC. Innovation. It's What Defines Us.

Next Phase Solutions and Services, Inc. provides insights and solutions for healthcare, engineering, and science research. Next Phase commits to creating an environment where our employees achieve their full potential, increase productivity, and expand their professional and personal horizons. We look for bright, innovative people who achieve results, understand the importance of being productive and supportive team members, and prioritize customer satisfaction. Next Phase leadership is looking for new leaders, scientific and technical subject matter experts, and technically savvy people interested in putting forth the effort and commitment needed to grow our company. Will you join us to share in the success? Benefits:Benefits include, but are not limited to: HEALTH AND WELLNESS BENEFITS Choose from three medical healthcare plans. Dental and Vision Insurance plans. Enjoy a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA), and a company-sponsored Wellness Program. PERSONAL INSURANCE BENEFITS Next Phase offers life insurance, accidental death, and dismemberment (ADandD) insurance, as well as short-term and long-term disability insurance, all of which are paid for by the company. PAID LEAVE Employees receive competitive paid time off, including 11 holidays and maternity leave for recovering mothers. RETIREMENT Next Phase contributes 5% to a 401K plan without requiring employee contributions. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Employees can be reimbursed for professional development expenses such as classes, books, technical certification/testing fees, professional dues/subscriptions, and professional licenses required for their position. PET INSURANCE You have two options to ensure the happiness and health of your pets. CO