Cisco UCS Architect (Compute/Storage)

Software Guidance & Assistance, Inc., (SGA), is searching for a Cisco UCS Architect (Compute/Storage) for a contract-to-hire assignment with one of our premier Utility clients in Tampa, FL.

Responsibiliti s :
The Cisco UCS Architect (Compute/Storage)t is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing compute solutions that support enterprise systems. This role requires a deep understanding of compute technologies and the ability to architect solutions that are secure, scalable, and resilient. The Architect will work with development teams and other stakeholders to provide architecture leadership and best practices. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of virtualization and compute architecture, and will be able to translate architectural designs into actionable plans for the build team.

• Lead the implementation of enterprise-wide compute and storage infrastructure initiatives and solutions.
• Architect and integrate Cisco UCS compute solutions, including UCS Manager, blades, chassis, fabric interconnects, and service profiles.
• Lead the design, architecture, and implementation of on-premises compute and storage infrastructure using VMware vSphere and Cisco UCS hardware.
• Architect, deploy, and operationalize VMware vSphere 8 clusters supporting enterprise workloads, including HA, DRS, vMotion, Lifecycle Manager (vLCM), and cluster-level design best practices.
• Design and implement Cisco UCS-based compute platforms, including:
  • UCS X-Series blade infrastructure
  • UCS C-Series rack-mount servers
  • Mixed blade and rack deployments including UCS-X Direct
• Build and manage UCS environments in both UCS Manager (UCSM) mode and Cisco Intersight Managed Mode (IMM), including:
  • Service Profiles / Server Profiles
  • Policies (BIOS, boot, firmware, LAN/SAN connectivity)
  • Firmware baselines and lifecycle management.
• Integrate compute platforms with Pure Storage all-flash arrays and HPE Alletra MP using Fibre Channel SAN connectivity, including:
  • End-to-end FC fabric design (dual fabric best practices)
  • Zoning on Cisco MDS or Nexus FC switches
  • LUN provisioning and host presentation.
• Top 5 Priorities
  • Architect and Design VM and Compute solutions to support project delivery. Determine scope and create server build sheet to be handed over to build team. This may range from VM builds within the enterprise to include the purchase of hardware.
  • Work on vSphere lifecycle needs to eliminate vSphere 7 from the environment.
  • Installing vSphere 8 hosts and configuring them for workload migrations
  • Work on hardware lifecycle needs across the enterprise
  • Work on operating system lifecycle needs across the enterprise

Required Skills:

• Certifications: VMware Certified Professional (VCP), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), or higher-level certifications in VMware and Cisco technologies.
• Automation: Experience with automation tools (e.g., Ansible, PowerShell, Terraform) for infrastructure provisioning and management.
• VMware vSphere: Deep expertise in architecting and managing VMware vSphere environments (ESXi, vCenter, DRS, vMotion, storage integration, etc.).
• Cisco UCS: Extensive experience in designing and managing Cisco UCS environments, including UCS Manager, blades, fabric interconnects, and service profiles.
• Storage Solutions: Knowledge of enterprise storage solutions and protocols (iSCSI, NFS, Fibre Channel, etc.), including storage design for VMware environments.
• Architecture Documentation: Proven ability to create clear, actionable architecture designs and detailed documentation for build teams.
• Ability to lift 50-75 pounds
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Occasional travel to remote sites may be required.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with cloud technologies (Azure, AWS, Google, Oracle) is a plus.

SGA is a technology and resource solutions provider driven to stand out. We are a women-owned business. Our mission: to solve big IT problems with a more personal, boutique approach. Each year, we match consultants like you to more than 1,000 engagements. When we say let's work better together, we mean it. You'll join a diverse team built on these core values: customer service, employee development, and quality and integrity in everything we do. Be yourself, love what you do and find your passion at work. Please find us at .

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