Lead Windows Administrator

About the position

We are looking for a Lead Business Technology Engineer to oversee endpoint management and IT workflows, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for end-users. This role combines technical expertise and leadership to drive automation, streamline IT operations, and enhance device security. The ideal candidate will take ownership of patch management, software deployment, encryption, and automation, working closely with cross-functional teams to align IT initiatives with business objectives. This role is based at our Headquarters in McLean, Virginia. Appian was built on a culture of in-person collaboration, which we believe is a key driver of our mission to be the best. Employees hired for this position are expected to be in the office 5 days a week to foster that culture and ensure we continue to thrive through shared ideas and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive patch management strategy aligned with IT goals and security requirements.
• Ensure patches are thoroughly tested for functionality, compatibility, and potential conflicts with existing infrastructure and applications.
• Proactively monitor and address security vulnerabilities, working closely with security teams to mitigate risks.
• Automate device provisioning, patch management, encryption management, software deployment, and other IT workflows to improve efficiency.
• Leverage scripting and automation tools (e.g., PowerShell, Ansible, SCCM, Intune, Jamf) to optimize desktop engineering processes.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and automation to enhance IT operations.
• Serve as a technical lead, mentoring junior engineers and guiding best practices in desktop engineering.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to design and implement solutions that align with business goals.
• Provide escalation support for complex technical issues related to endpoint management, security, and performance.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in desktop engineering or similar IT related roles.
• Strong knowledge of patch management, endpoint security, and IT automation best practices.
• Experience with Windows, macOS, and mobile device management (MDM) solutions (e.g., Intune, Jamf).
• Proficiency in PowerShell, Python, Google App Script or other scripting languages for automation.
• Familiarity with configuration management tools (e.g., SCCM/ Intune, Ansible).
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot complex IT issues.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to drive technical initiatives and collaborate across teams.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with zero-trust security models and endpoint protection tools.
• Knowledge of cloud-based IT solutions (e.g., Azure AD, Google Workspace, AWS WorkSpaces).
• Previous experience in a lead or senior engineering role with team mentoring responsibilities.

Benefits

• Training and Development: Focus on equipping new hires with the skills and knowledge for success through department-specific training.
• Continuous learning with dedicated mentorship and the First-Friend program.
• Growth Opportunities: Diverse array of growth and development opportunities, including leadership programs and tuition reimbursement.
• Community: Inclusivity through 8 employee-led affinity groups that help employees build stronger networks.