Macintosh Enterprise Systems Engineer

COMPANY OVERVIEW

XCEL Engineering, Inc. is an award-winning small business that provides trusted information technology, engineering, consulting and project management solutions and services to federal agencies and organizations. Originally founded in 1971 by professional engineers at the University of Tennessee, XCEL was acquired in 2003 by U.S. Army and Navy veterans and in 2023 became a MartinFed company.

XCEL Engineering is a part of IT Lab Partners (ITLP) which was created to support a leading research facility in the East Tennessee region in recruiting the best and the brightest technical talent. Considering joining our impressive team today!

JOB OVERVIEW

XCEL Engineering has an opening for a Macintosh Enterprise Systems Engineer to join our team of talented and diverse individuals. This role will directly support a group that manages 14K+ client systems in a highly dynamic research community.

MAJOR DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITES

• Streamline processes surrounding the lifecycle of computer systems, including improvements in acquisition, configuration and deployment of new systems, daily operations and maintenance, monitoring, automated/proactive support, services, and retirement.
• Assist with the highest level of troubleshooting as needed, working with manufacturers, vendors, support staff, and users of the platform.
• Create and maintain internal operating procedures and end user documentation.
• Contribute to the overall management of cyber security risks and implementation of tools to support ORNL mission.
• Provide centralized client management solution for macOS systems.
• Create installation packages for automated deployment of software applications and updates for macOS systems.
• Orchestrate testing of new features, applications, patches, etc., before they are released to production.
• Act as a subject matter expert for policy discussions and assist internal and external groups with macOS management related projects.
• Function as a liaison between the macOS user community and the IT organization.
• Maintain a dialog with the macOS user community through blog posts and email as well as other communication systems to ensure buy-in and facilitate collaboration.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced/expert understanding of macOS internals (application bundles, Profiles, preference domains, launchd, etc.)
• Advanced/expert understanding of centralized macOS management systems and deployment services
• Knowledge of Device Enrollment fundamentals and Apple Business Manager
• Strong shell (bash/zsh) scripting ability utilizing macOS specific tools
• Practical experience with installer package creation and package scripts
• Practical experience with Apple hardware and software
• Knowledge of macOS and application security
• Knowledge of networking services such as DNS and DHCP
• Experience with task automation
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English
• Citizenship is required, and the ability to obtain Department of Energy security clearance is preferred.
• The ability to work occasional extended and weekend hours to resolve urgent problems or meet critical milestones is required.

DESIRED TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:

• Jamf certifications (Certified Tech, Certified Admin, Certified Expert)
• Experience with software update regression testing.
• Experience with Microsoft directory services integration (Active Directory, macOS Device Compliance/Conditional Access etc.).
• Experience with application virtualization software and approaches.
• Experience with programmatically interacting with web-based application programming interfaces such as the Jamf Pro and Classic APIs
• Database experience (MySQL, sqlite, Oracle), involving installation, configuration, management, and maintenance. Experience with SQL database queries, particularly for data analysis is desired.
• Web Server configuration experience (Apache and Tomcat)
• Experience in basic Linux server setup and administration
• Experience with Adobe and Microsoft applications for Mac (Office, Acrobat, etc.).
• Knowledge of basic incident, problem, and change management procedures
• Experience with configuration and management of remote storage resources, such as Dropbox, iCloud, or Amazon S3.
• Experience with Python programming.
• Application programming skills.

BEHAVIORS AND TRAITS REQUIRED FOR SUCCESS

• Must be able to demonstrate a scientific approach to evaluations, testing, troubleshooting and solution design.
• An understanding and practical experience in an operational IT organization, with experience in robust testing and change control procedures.
• Willingness to evaluate processes and procedures and suggest constructive paths for improvement in business and technical processes.
• Ability to work both independently and as a strong team contributor.
• Strong customer relationship skills and willingness to lead customers. through successful, challenging projects.
• Willingness to follow up with end users and support staff concerning issues.
• Must stay current with new technologies, hardware and software and the latest security threats.
• Strong commitment to ethical and professional values.
• Maintains compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality standards.

EXPERIENCE

• Experience working in a science or technology environment is highly desired.
• 10+ years supporting Mac systems.
• Proven 5 + years managing Mac systems.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

• Inside office environment.
• Working on a computer for long periods of time.
• May involve long period of sitting at a desk.
• The work environment is fast-paced and sometimes involves extreme deadline pressures.

OTHER DUTIES

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Xcel Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to race, color, religion, religious creed, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, transgender, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, protected Veteran Status, genetics or any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access Xcel Engineering's current openings as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by calling 855.212.1810. Thank you for your interest in Xcel Engineering.