Operating System Software Programmer

State of North Carolina•3118 Garner Road Wake, NC

2d•$81,504 - $115,000•Onsite

About The Position

The NC State Highway Patrol is seeking an enthusiastic team member to join our Technical Services Unit as an Operating Systems Software Programmer. The Operating Systems Software Programmer position is primarily responsible for the security administration of the Highway Patrol’s statewide server infrastructure. Key responsibilities include planning, implementing, and managing security measures within Microsoft environments (Azure, 365, Windows Server), ensuring compliance with CJIS Security Policy and state regulations, and mitigating risks. The role focuses on supporting secure server operations by collaborating with IT teams to uphold standards and regulatory requirements, alongside tasks such as analysis, design, documentation, and operational support that reinforce security across all systems. In addition to these core duties, the position also supports server administration as a secondary responsibility, assisting with routine maintenance, configuration, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and reliability across the statewide infrastructure.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in computer science or an IT related field or a closely related field from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of progressive experience in systems software programming; OR Associate degree in computer science or an IT related field or a closely related field from an appropriately accredited institution and four years of progressive experience in systems software programming; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Criminal Background Investigation
Drug Screening Test
Valid driver’s license issued from within the United States

Nice To Haves

Microsoft Certified: Security Operations Analyst Associate or Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate
Experience with PowerShell scripting for automation
Knowledge of Zero Trust architecture
Strong knowledge of Microsoft security technologies (Defender, Sentinel, Azure Security Center)
Familiarity with CJIS Security Policy and law enforcement data protection requirements
Experience with Azure Active Directory, MFA, and Conditional Access
Thorough knowledge of modern server management principles, methodologies, and best practices
Knowledge of secure system administration practices within regulated or public safety environments
Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess organizational and procedural challenges and implement effective system improvements
Ability to apply current and emerging technologies to enhance IT services and support agency goals
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with minimal supervision
Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to maintaining positive, professional working relationships
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical users

Responsibilities

Design, deploy, and maintain Microsoft security solutions—including Microsoft 365 Defender, Azure Security Center, and Microsoft Sentinel—to safeguard server infrastructure and sensitive law enforcement data.
Configure and manage Identity and Access Management (IAM) using Azure Active Directory (AAD), Conditional Access Policies, and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to protect user accounts and restrict unauthorized access.
Ensure all servers and systems strictly adhere to CJIS Security Policy requirements, including encryption, authentication, and auditing, to maintain regulatory compliance and data integrity.
Conduct regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and compliance checks to proactively identify and address risks across the server environment.
Monitor security alerts and system logs using Microsoft Sentinel and other SIEM tools to detect and respond swiftly to threats impacting server operations.
Lead investigations and coordinate responses to security incidents involving servers and IT infrastructure, ensuring timely resolution, thorough documentation, and implementation of preventive measures.
Identify recurring security issues affecting server environments, perform root-cause analysis, and design solutions to mitigate future risks.
Provide secure administration and operational support for enterprise IT services—including email systems, data storage platforms, VMware virtualization, Active Directory, and disaster recovery planning—while ensuring all activities align with security best practices and compliance mandates.
Oversee software and hardware installations and support proprietary and third-party applications, with a focus on minimizing vulnerabilities and strengthening system defenses.
Manage moderate to complex IT projects or project components related to security and server administration, including requirements gathering, secure design, implementation, and comprehensive documentation.
Provide expert security guidance and technical support to field users and Technical Services Unit peers, promoting secure server operations and best practices.
Collaborate with internal teams to identify trends in hardware and software failures, lead resolution efforts, and champion security improvements across the infrastructure.
Prepare detailed technical reports and present information in clear, concise written, oral, and presentation formats, emphasizing security findings and recommendations.