Data Center Engineer; Network

ZP group is seeking an experienced Data Center Engineer to build, support, and maintain secure computing environments used for operational missions. This role plays a critical part in the design, deployment, and ongoing security of complex systems across data center environments. This is a contract-to-hire position located in Annapolis Junction, MD
. This opportunity requires an active Top Secret/SCI clearance with Counter‑Intelligence Polygraph
.

• Building, supporting, and maintaining secure computing environments used in operational settings.
• Deploying and administering systems spanning multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Unix.
• Supporting virtualization infrastructure using VMWare vSphere within a data center environment.
• Securing systems to meet compliance with NISPOM, ICD, and DIACAP requirements.
• Assisting in the creation, maintenance, and management of System Security Plans (SSP) and Plan of Action & Milestones (PO&AM) documentation.
• Configuring, deploying, and troubleshooting network functions in a classified environment.
• Performing routine network administration, including installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of routers, switches, firewalls, and related infrastructure.

• Prior experience supporting contracts requiring DIACAP, NISPOM, and ICD compliance.
• Strong experience configuring, deploying, and troubleshooting secure network environments.
• Experience supporting mixed Windows and Linux environments and understanding how they interact across enterprise networks.
• Hands‑on experience with routers, switches, firewalls, and enterprise networking technologies (CCNA‑level knowledge preferred).
• Proficiency with Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, WSUS, Windows Server 2016/2019, and Windows 10.
• Experience administering VMWare vSphere virtualization environments.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a cross‑functional technical team.
• Possession of at least one DoD 8570‑compliant certification, such as CISSP, Security+, CISA, GSEC, CAP, SCNA, SCNP, SSCP, GSLC, or GSE.

• Salary range: $165,000 - $185,000
• Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, PTO, holidays, and sick leave as required by law.

/WAN, data center operations, Windows Server 2016, unix, VMware, VMware vSphere, active directory, AD, DNS, DHCP, WSUS, web services, system deployment, system configuration, CISSP, security+, SCNA, SCNP, GSLC, GSE