IT Applications Analyst (Python / SQL / PSC / Windows Server)

Primary Talent Partners has a new contract opening for an IT Applications Analyst (Python / SQL / PSC / Windows Server) with our large power and utilities client in Charlotte, NC. This is a 12-month contract with a potential for extension. This is a hybrid position - 3 days a week in office.Pay: $65.00 - $75.00/hr; W2 contract, no PTO, no Benefits. ACA-compliant supplemental package available for enrollment. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must be able to sit on Primary Talent Partners W2 without sponsorship.Description:We are seeking a highly skilled IT Applications Analyst to support two critical initiatives:Aspen Data Mart - focused on Python development, data integration, testing, and Kafka-based streamingCIP Local Password Tool (CLPT) - supporting a vendor solution (Power System Center - PSC) including a core application and Progressive Web Application (PWA) used by field personnelThis role requires a strong blend of data engineering, application support, Windows server administration, and security troubleshooting. The ideal candidate will be capable of supporting complex, security-driven environments involving TLS/mTLS certificates, service accounts, and synchronized web-based applications, while also contributing to development and testing activities.Key Responsibilities:Project 1: Aspen Data Mart (Data Engineering & Integration)Develop and maintain Python-based data pipelines and applicationsSupport data transformation, validation, and analysisWrite and execute test scenarios (qTest) for data migration and validationConfigure and troubleshoot Kafka topics, producers, and consumersEnsure reliability and performance of data flows and integrationsProject 2: CLPT / Power System Center (Application & Platform Support)Provide operational and technical support for Power System Center (PSC):PSC Central Core application (central system)PSC Local used on field laptopsTroubleshoot complex application issues, including:Sync failures between systemsAuthentication and connectivity issuesApplication performance and availability problemsApplication & Web Platform SupportConfigure and support web-based applications across environmentsTroubleshoot issues spanning:Application layerWeb services/APIsClient-side (field laptops / browser-based PWA)Analyze logs, services, and data flows to identify root causesWindows Server & Infrastructure AdministrationAdminister and support Windows Server environments hosting PSC and related applicationsManage:Application servicesScheduled jobs and background processesServer performance and health monitoringSupport deployments, patching, and configuration updatesSecurity & Identity (Critical Requirement)Manage and troubleshoot certificate-based authentication, including:TLS / mTLS configurationsServer and client certificate installation and renewalSupport service account (including gMSA) configurationsDiagnose and resolve security-related issues:Authentication failuresCertificate trust/chain issuesSecure communication breakdownsEnsure systems align with NERC CIP and enterprise security requirementsData & Database ManagementManage and support Oracle and SQL Server databasesPerform:Query tuning and performance optimizationData validation and troubleshootingSupport backend data flows for both Aspen and PSC systemsTesting & Quality AssuranceDevelop and execute qTest scenariosPerform:Functional testingIntegration testingRegression testingValidate both data accuracy and application behaviorBusiness & Data AnalysisWork with business stakeholders to gather requirements and clarify issuesConduct data analysis to support troubleshooting and decision-makingTranslate business needs into technical solutions and improvementsRequired Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)8+ years of experience in IT application support, development, or data engineering rolesTechnical SkillsStrong experience with:Python developmentMicrosoft SQL ServerWindows Server administrationWeb application configuration and supportProven experience troubleshooting:Distributed applicationsIntegration and synchronization issuesExperience with:TLS / mTLS and certificate managementService accounts (including secure configurations)Testing tools such as qTestKafka configuration and troubleshootingPreferred Qualifications:Experience with Progressive Web Applications (PWA) and sync-based architecturesFamiliarity with NERC CIP or security compliance environmentsExperience with field-based systems or disconnected/sync modelsExperience working with vendors (e.g., Subnet) in support and troubleshooting scenariosKey Competencies:Strong end-to-end troubleshooting across:Infrastructure (Windows Server)Application layerSecurity layer (certificates, auth)Data layer (SQL/Kafka)Ability to diagnose complex, multi-system failures (sync, auth, data)Strong analytical and problem-solving skillsEffective communication with both technical teams and business stakeholdersDetail-oriented with strong focus on compliance, auditability, and system reliabilityPrimary Talent Partners is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.If you are a person with a disability needing assistance with the application or at any point in the hiring process, please contact us at info@primarytalentpartners.com