Solutions Specialist

Job Description CIÉ Group IT&T are seeking a motivated and technically strong Solution Specialist (Infrastructure and Cloud) to join the Technology Team. The successful candidate will play a key role in the design, and implementation of IT Infrastructure and Cloud solution projects, with a focus on Microsoft 365, Microsoft Azure, and modern enterprise management technologies. This is an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic and experienced IT professional to further development within a progressive IT environment.Key Responsibilities Design and deploy scalable, secure IT infrastructure and cloud solutions across a range of technologies including but not limited to Microsoft and VMware,Deliver end-to-end projects across on-premises, hybrid, and cloud environments,Produce, review and sign-off on relevant project artefacts (High Level Designs/Low Level Designs/Change Requests),Document solution designs, technical configurations and operational processes, Collaborate with project managers to deliver projects on time and within scope,Validate third-party infrastructure, cloud and security project proposals to ensure they meet technical standards and business requirements,Identify emerging technologies which may be utilised to better deliver IT services,Collaborate with solution architects to integrate AI capabilities that enhance system efficiency, monitoring, and user experience. Contribute to continuous improvement, automation, and standardization initiatives,Knowledge transfer & training to relevant Service Team,Attend relevant governance meetings, as required.Experience and Competencies4 –6 years of experience in IT Infrastructure engineering or systems administration,Proven experience designing and implementing solutions including but not limited to:Microsoft Azure (compute, storage, networking, security),Microsoft 365 suite (Exchange, Teams, Entra ID)SCCM (Config. Manager) and Microsoft Intune,Privileged Identity ManagementStrong knowledge of Windows Server (2016 – 2025) and windows 10/11 environments.Skilled in PowerShell for automation and configuration management, Experience with VMware virtualisation and SAN technologies, Experience with hybrid identity models (Azure AD Connect, SSO, MFA),Familiarity with Infrastructure as Code (e.g., ARM, Bicep),Understanding of network fundamentals and protocols (DNS, DHCP, VLANs, routing, VPN etc.)A good understanding of software configurations, A strong track record in technically leading the delivery of complex solutions,Experience working with third party infrastructure and cloud vendors,An ability to multi-task and work in a dynamic and time pressurised IT project delivery environment,Good interpersonal skills and a confident communicator,Excellent analytical & problem-solving skills,Excellent attention to detail. Qualifications and CertificationsRelevant Third Level Degree or certification in IT, Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering or equivalent,Required Certifications include:Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator (Azure Fundamentals AZ-900),Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)Desirable Certifications include:Vmware Certified Professional (VCP),VMware Certified Professional / VMware Certified Advanced Professional / VMware Certified Design Expert,Any other relevant certification across infrastructure and cloud,ITIL v3,TOGAF.Work relationships A member of the Technology Team, reporting to the IT Infrastructure Manager,Internal: Technology Team,Internal: Project Management Office,Internal: Chief Technical Architect / Chief Enterprise Architect,Internal: Cyber Security,Internal: All Group IT&T,Within Operating Companies: IT Managers and engineers,External: Managed Service ProviderExternal: 3rd Party Suppliers & Vendors.Work Environment The role will require a minimum of two days per week in the Group IT&T office, Heuston Station Dublin, or an alternate CIÉ Group location in the Dublin area,Depending on the project, there may be a requirement to be on-site in the Group IT&T office for 5 days a week for the duration of the project requirements.There may also be a requirement to travel to other CIÉ Group locations or Data Centres in the Dublin area on an irregular basis.