Application Packaging & Deployment Specialist

Column Technical Services•Chicago, IL

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Column Technical Services is seeking an Application Packaging & Deployment Specialist to support enterprise application delivery in Chicago. This onsite role focuses on application packaging, automation, and deployment, working with infrastructure, development, testing, and support teams to deliver reliable software deployments. Candidates should reside in Chicago or the surrounding Chicagoland area. Sponsorship is not available. The specialist packages and customizes applications, automates installation processes, and manages software releases across development, testing, pilot, and production environments. The role also includes troubleshooting deployment issues, supporting packaged applications, documenting procedures, improving processes, and collaborating with clients, stakeholders, and project teams.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience in application packaging and software deployment within enterprise environments.
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.
Hands-on experience with Microsoft SCCM/MECM and enterprise software deployment methodologies.
Strong PowerShell scripting proficiency, including extensive experience with PSADT.
Demonstrated success supporting application packaging and deployment initiatives.
Understanding of software development lifecycles, release management practices, and deployment methodologies.
Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Experience creating and supporting Microsoft Installer (MSI) packages.
Understanding of User Account Control (UAC) and its impact on software installation and deployment.
Working knowledge of Windows services and Windows administration tools.
Candidates should reside in Chicago or the surrounding Chicagoland area.
Must be able to work onsite.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Flexera AdminStudio and InstallShield.
Familiarity with WiX, Inno Setup, and ClickOnce installation frameworks.
Exposure to Microsoft Azure and/or Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Experience deploying and managing applications through Microsoft Intune.
Knowledge of modern endpoint management and software delivery best practices.

Responsibilities

Package, customize, and automate application installations using PSADT and other packaging solutions, including Flexera AdminStudio and InstallShield.
Develop customized installation packages to meet business and technical requirements.
Configure applications and plug-ins for unattended Windows workstation deployment, including silent installation, validation, and monitoring deployment progress.
Create and maintain automated deployment solutions to improve efficiency, consistency, and user experience.
Build, stage, test, and deploy application packages using SCCM/MECM, Intune, or other enterprise deployment technologies.
Coordinate application releases through development, testing, pilot, and production phases.
Manage software deployment workflows within Software Center and troubleshoot related issues.
Implement application and system changes in production and non-production environments.
Participate as a key stakeholder in release management and follow deployment and change control procedures.
Partner with development, testing, and support teams to facilitate software releases.
Diagnose and resolve issues involving Configuration Manager, application deployments, content distribution, and client devices.
Provide technical support for packaged applications and supporting infrastructure components.
Analyze installation and deployment logs, identify root causes, and implement resolutions.
Maintain and optimize application deployment processes.
Identify opportunities to improve packaging, release, and deployment processes.
Assist with onboarding and mentoring team members on build, release, and change management practices.
Create and maintain deployment procedures, SOPs, and technical guidelines.
Promote process standardization and continuous improvement.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver software on time while minimizing business disruption.
Engage with clients and stakeholders to understand system requirements and deployment objectives.
Participate in technical discussions, project planning, and release management activities.
Provide deployment expertise and recommendations to project teams and business partners.