Systems Operations & Application Support Specialist (Hyattsville)
The Systems Operations & Application Support Specialist will support PCI Professional Service's contract with the CDC. This role will report to the Program Manager and will be onsite.Position SummaryThe Systems Operations & Application Support Specialist provides advanced technical leadership and hands-on support across Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Collaborating Center for Questionnaire Design and Evaluation Research (CCQDER) systems, applications, and research data environments. This role is responsible not only for maintaining and optimizing existing infrastructure, but also for proactively identifying opportunities to enhance system performance, modernize legacy environments, and improve data workflows in alignment with CCQDER's evolving mission.The position requires a forward-thinking technical professional who can assess current-state environments, recommend practical technical solutions, and execute approved enhancements within a secure, highly regulated federal research setting.Key ResponsibilitiesSystems Operations, Infrastructure, and Application SupportAdminister and maintain CCQDER network, servers, storage systems, desktops, and specialized video/audio research environmentsInstall, configure, and upgrade hardware and software across systems and applicationsProvide end-to-end troubleshooting and performance tuning to ensure system reliability and efficiencyManage system monitoring, backup, recovery, and disaster recovery processesCoordinate closely with CDC OCIO and enterprise IT teams to ensure alignment with agency infrastructure and standardsTechnical Strategy, Continuous Improvement, and ModernizationAssess current system architecture, infrastructure, and application environments to identify risks, inefficiencies, and modernization opportunitiesDevelop and present practical, implementable recommendations for system improvements, upgrades, and technology adoption (e.g., storage optimization, system performance, application evolution)Support transition from legacy systems to modern COTS and cloud-based solutions, including data migration and integration activitiesParticipate in SDLC-related activities and provide input on architecture, design alternatives, and emerging technologiesExecute approved enhancements, ensuring solutions align with CDC security, compliance, and operational requirementsApplication Support and Research Systems EnablementMaintain and support CCQDER lab systems and applications, including troubleshooting, documentation, and user supportSupport deployment, configuration, and optimization of research tools and applications (e.g., video capture systems, transcription platforms, survey tools)Collaborate with CCQDER staff to ensure systems effectively support data collection, analysis, and research workflowsData Management and Secure Research Environment SupportManage secure storage, cataloging, and lifecycle of video/audio recordings and related metadataOversee transcription workflows and ensure proper storage and handling in compliance with federal confidentiality requirementsExecute data retention, archival, and destruction processes in accordance with CDC policiesSecurity, Compliance, and Governance SupportSupport system security operations, including security checks, configuration compliance, and coordination with CDC cybersecurity stakeholdersProvide technical input to System Assessment & Authorization (SA&A) processes and support maintenance of Authority to Operate (ATO)Ensure all systems and processes align with CDC, NCHS, and federal requirements (e.g., FISMA, NIST, CIPSEA)Collaboration and Client EngagementWork closely with CCQDER leadership, technical staff, and federal stakeholders to support mission-critical operationsTranslate technical issues and recommendations into clear, actionable communication for non-technical stakeholdersProvide responsive, solution-oriented support in a fast-paced, research-driven environmentRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field5+ years of hands-on IT systems, infrastructure, or application support experienceDemonstrated ability to both operate and improve technical environments (operations + enhancement mindset)Experience administering networks, servers, and secure systems environmentsProven ability to analyze system performance and recommend improvementsExperience supporting or interacting with secure, regulated environments (federal or equivalent)Ability to execute technical changes following structured governance and approval processesPreferred QualificationsPrior experience supporting CDC, NCHS, or federal health/research environmentsExperience with video/audio systems, transcription tools, or research data platformsFamiliarity with legacy system modernization and migration to COTS solutionsExperience supporting secure LAN environments with large data repositoriesSecurity+ or similar certificationClearance & ComplianceEligible for federal background investigation (Public Trust or higher)Must comply with CDC/NCHS confidentiality, security, and training requirements