OVERVIEW & PURPOSE

Optimized IT is regional in scope, providing Managed IT Services from small to mid-sized organizations including Commercial Business, Not-for-Profit, and K-12 markets. We are seeking a highly skilled Project Engineer with good client communication skills and an appetite to solve problems.

The Project Engineer spearheads client onboarding, product deployment, and service enhancements. Acting as an escalation point, they collaborate with the NOC and Service Department, both internally and externally. This role also drives automation and AI-enabled service delivery improvements. On-call availability is required. This position reports to the Director of Service and works closely with the Project Manager & Solutions Architect.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Mentor and train other members of the Service & NOC Team andseekto continually improve processes companywide

1. Build and deploy new client hardware (servers - physical or virtual, switches, firewalls, and/or SAN) through project engagements

1. Design, implement, and support automation solutions using scripting (PowerShell) and platforms such asRewst, HATZ.AI, and N-central (N*N)

1. Develop andmaintainreusable automation scripts, runbooks, and AI-assisted workflows to improve service efficiency and consistency

1. Receive escalated customer calls for complex troubleshooting and technical support

1. Collaborate with external vendors and partners to test,validate, and implement solutions

1. Provide continual status updates to customers and project managersregardingtickets, automation initiatives, and projects

1. Proactivelyidentifyproject risks, constraints, and opportunities for automation or AI optimization and manage accordingly

1. Provide detailed specifications for proposed solutions including materials,manpower, timelines, and automation strategy

1. Assistengineering teams in creating demonstrations of proposed solutions, including automationworkflows and AI use cases

1. Contribute to continuous improvement of internal systems through automation, scripting, and integration of AI tools

COMPETENCIES

1. Expert understanding of Microsoft 365, Azure, Server platforms, and Exchange

1. Expert understanding of Microsoftsystem management(AD, Group Policy, DNS, DFS, NPS, etc.)

1. Strong understanding of storage solutions

1. Strong understanding of virtualization (VMware VCP a plus)

1. Strong understanding of networking (Advanced Routing Protocols, VLAN, NAT, BGP, etc.)

1. Strong understanding of firewalls (Familiarity with SonicWall and Cisco ASA a plus)

1. Experience with backup and disaster recovery solutions

1. Advanced scripting skills, particularly in PowerShell, for automation and systems management

1. Hands-on experience with automation platforms such asRewst, HATZ.AI, and N8Nor similar tools

1. Experience designing and implementing IT process automation and AI-assisted workflows

1. Familiarity with API integrations and workflow orchestration tools

1. Some experience with mobile device management

1. Strong attention to detail and accuracy

1. Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task

1. Ability to work cross-functionally and communicate with internal teams, customers, and vendors

1. Highly motivated, energetic self-starter with a passion for innovation

1. Adaptable to change and able to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment

PERKS

1. An easy-going environment and culture (we all enjoy what we do)

1. Hybrid work flexibility (Mon-Tues in office; Wed-Fri work from home)

1. A stand-up desk and your own LEGO set on your first day

1. A proactive approach to ongoing training to help you develop life-long skills, including automation and AI technologies

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no supervisory responsibility.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, mfds, and software tools.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Highly mobile position. May require lifting (up to 30 pounds) of computer, server or network equipment and related accessories.
• Writing and typing abilitiesrequiredfor computer functions.
• Requires standing,walkingand driving a vehicle for extensive periods of time.

POSITION TYPE & EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

EXEMPT

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Evening and weekend work may be required as job duties demand.

TRAVEL

This position requires minimal travel.

REQUIRED EDUCATION

• Bachelor's degreeor equivalentexperience

OTHER DUTIES

Please note 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.