Sr. Systems Engineer-Virtualization

Overview The objective of this role is to design, build, and operate next generation x86 virtualization platforms. This role is critical to our strategy to deliver enterprise-grade alternatives to VMware using open and modern technologies. You will lead architecture decisions, guide platform standards, and work hands-on with production environments supporting client-facing services.

Key Responsibilities

• Architect and manage x86 virtualization platforms positioned as Secure, Resilient, VMware alternatives

• Design and operate environments using Proxmox, KVM, Hyper-V, and OpenShift

• Lead platform standardization, performance tuning, and capacity planning

• Support containerized workloads and Kubernetes-based platforms

• Collaborate with security, networking, and automation teams

• Troubleshoot complex virtualization and infrastructure issues

• Document architecture, standards, and operational procedures

• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership

Required Skills and Experience

• 7+ years of systems engineering experience in enterprise environments

• Strong hands-on experience with x86 virtualization platforms

• Deep knowledge of Proxmox, RHEL, KVM, Hyper-V, and OpenShift

• Experience architecting virtualization platforms at scale

• Strong Linux and Windows systems administration skills

• Understanding of storage, networking, and high availability concepts

• Experience positioning or migrating away from VMware is strongly preferred

Education

• Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field required

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with automation and infrastructure-as-code tools

• Exposure to enterprise storage platforms and SDN

• Experience supporting managed services or cloud service providers

Why CloudFirst

• Work on real-world platforms that compete with market incumbents

• High-impact role with architectural ownership

• Stable, growing company focused on enterprise reliability

• Collaborative engineering culture with clear technical direction

Alignment with CloudFirst Values:

At CloudFirst, how we work is just as important as what we deliver. Team members are expected to align their approach to work with CloudFirst’s core values, including:

Customer Focus: We are customer-centric in everything we do. Placing our clients at the heart of every decision.

Will-Do Attitude: We embody a Will-Do Attitude. Approaching every challenge as an opportunity to show value to our clients.

Collaboration: Collaboration defines how we work. We are team players committed to working together with responsiveness, support, and a shared purpose.

Salary:  $115,000-$125,000

Location Requirement: This role is hybrid based in our Melville, NY office. Remote candidates in the tri-state area are open to apply as on-site presence is required.