Server and Desktop Architect

August 25, 2025

SUMMARY
The Server and Desktop Architect is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the Housing Authority of Cook County’s enterprise-wide server infrastructure and desktop environment, Microsoft 365 environment, Mobile Device Management and provide end-user support to ensure the reliability, security, and optimal performance of critical IT systems. This role supports the agency’s mission by enabling uninterrupted access to critical systems and services for staff and residents, safeguarding sensitive data, and ensuring compliance with federal and local regulations. The architect plays a key role in advancing HACC’s digital transformation initiatives, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting the delivery of high-quality housing services through robust server, desktop and mobile device performance.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Play a key role in the operation of the production network and infrastructure along with the supporting ecosystem.
• Perform investigations and provide timely resolution to incidents affecting an array of network and security technologies in data centers and offices in the Chicago area.
• Coordinate complex troubleshooting efforts together with the other IT teammates and have the opportunity to progress beyond understanding purely networking concepts.
• Prepare and roll out basic changes to classic network equipment, firewalls, load balancers, and Wi-Fi infrastructure using a variety of tools. Work alongside vendor engineers with major project-related deployments.
• Manage the network infrastructure life cycle by fine-tuning and enriching our monitoring systems, rolling out periodical and critical upgrades, creating performance reviews and proposing improvements, and maintaining accurate documentation.
• Outline project requirements, set priorities, timeframes, agendas, and specifications.
• Perform duties in accordance with the Agency’s policies

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND/OR CERTIFICATION
• 2+ years of MEMCM/SCCM administration experience or similar.
• Strong experience supporting and configuring Windows 10 and 11.
• Previous mobile device management experience.
• Knowledge of application packaging and management.
• Strong knowledge of Group Policy management.
• PowerShell experience
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent collaboration and communication abilities.
• Ability to work closely with various business departments.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Scripting and Automation Proficiency: Experience using PowerShell to automate administrative tasks within Windows Server, Active Directory, and Microsoft 365 environments.
• Professional Certifications: Industry certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate, CompTIA Security+, or CompTIA Network+.
• Virtualization Experience: Hands-on experience with virtualization platforms like VMware vSphere or Microsoft Hyper-V.
• Advanced Networking Knowledge: A solid understanding of networking principles, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, VPNs, and VLANs.
• IT Service Management (ITSM) Framework Familiarity: Knowledge of or certification in ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) foundations.
• Government Agency Experience: Prior experience providing IT support in a government services environment.
• Microsoft Power Platform Skills: Familiarity with using Power Automate or Power Apps to create simple business solutions and workflows.
• Security Implementation: Experience with security tools and concepts, such as Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems, multi-factor authentication (MFA) deployment, and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions.

EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS OPERATED
• Computers and peripherals. Office equipment.

ADDITIONAL WORKING CONDITIONS
• Availability beyond regular hours, occasional travel, valid driver’s license required.
• Requires own transportation.
• Must bend, stoop, crouch, or reach for files or tools.

SALARY
The salary range for this position is $75,000 – $95,000.

BENEFITS
Health insurance
FREE Dental insurance
FREE Vision insurance
Life insurance
Healthcare flexible spending account
Dependent Care flexible spending account
Commuter flexible spending account
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Paid time off including 14 Holidays
Hybrid Schedule
Flexible Work Hours
401(k) – Employer contribution of 6%

This job description is subject to change and in no manner states or implies that these are the only duties and responsibilities to be performed. The qualifications listed above are guidelines, other combinations of education and experience that could provide the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job will be considered.

  • Location
    Chicago, IL
  • Schedule
    Full-Time
  • Department
    Deputy Chief Information Officer
  • FLSA Exempt
    FLSA Exempt
Apply NowApply Now
Spanish