Desktop Solutions Architect
 Virginia Commonwealth University Health Systems | |
 United States, Virginia, Richmond | |
 Jan 20, 2026 | |
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The Desktop Solutions Architect serves as the enterprise authority and visionary for the Windows based device architecture, strategy, innovation, and user experience. They are responsible for leading the design and governance of all aspects that impact the Windows ecosystem, such as Endpoint Management, Active Directory, Entra ID, and Microsoft 365 (M365). The Desktop Solutions Architect is responsible for the Windows device lifecycle, including oversight of desktop image designs and builds, desktop imaging processes, automated endpoint management, Active Directory and Entra ID engineering, SSO, MFA, and M365 integration with applications like Office, Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint. This role collaborates with executive leadership, cybersecurity, compliance, and infrastructure teams to define standards, enforce governance, and lead transformational initiatives. The Desktop Solutions Architect also mentors engineering teams, evaluates emerging technologies, and plays a critical role in shaping the digital workplace strategy for the organization.
Essential Job Statements Serve as the Champion of the End-User Windows Desktop experience and lead continuous improvement of Windows-based experiences in the organization Be the Enterprise expert in Endpoint Management (Microsoft MECM and Intune) and drive best practices for the organization Provide senior level expertise on hybrid Active Directory design and implementation Develop and maintain best in class standards for device images and deployments, both on-prem and remote Drive maximum utilization of existing Microsoft solutions like Entra ID for SSO/MFA, Conditional Access, and related Identity Management applications Lead the evaluation and strategic adoption of emerging Microsoft Desktop-related technologies, integrations, and vendor solutions. Architect and oversee pilot programs, proof-of-concepts, and enterprise rollouts. Champion innovation by aligning technology capabilities with organizational goals and clinical outcomes. Lead enterprise-wide initiatives to enhance system integration, automation, fault tolerance, and resiliency. Collaborate with clinical, security, infrastructure, and application teams to design and implement scalable, secure, and high-performing Microsoft Desktop solutions. Design and implement advanced monitoring frameworks and performance dashboards. Deliver actionable insights to leadership through analytics and reporting. Continuously assess system health and recommend architectural improvements to optimize performance and user experience. Interpret and disseminate technical advisories, vendor communications, and industry trends. Establish governance frameworks to ensure compliance, lifecycle management, and alignment with enterprise architecture standards. Identify and mitigate risks related to system performance, security, and compliance. Lead proactive remediation efforts, including patching, configuration management, and lifecycle planning to ensure platform stability and supportability. Manage vendor relationships and support contracts for Microsoft 365 and related services. Provide strategic recommendations to leadership on renewals, optimizations, and vendor performance. Evaluate alternative service models and licensing strategies to maximize value. Deliver high-impact training sessions, workshops, or executive briefings on advanced Microsoft 365 topics. Serve as a subject matter expert and thought leader, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation across the organization. Patient Population: N/A Employment Qualifications Required Education: Master's degree in computer science, Information Technology, Cyber Security, Information Systems or a related degree. Or relevant experience Preferred Education: N/A Licensing/ Certification Licensure/Certification Required: Any Microsoft Certification related to Microsoft 365, Azure, Active Directory, Entra, or Window Desktops (e.g. Microsoft 365 Certified: Endpoint Administrator Associate, Microsoft 365 Certified: Collaboration Communications Systems Engineer Associate, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert) Licensure/Certification Preferred: N/A Minimum Qualifications Years and Type of Required Experience: 12+ years of endpoint administrative and solutions experience in a large deployment (10,000+ devices). 10+ years of experience with on-prem and remote Windows-based device imaging and deployment. 7+ years of experience with advanced user support and solution development. 7+ years Active Directory experience Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: Strong knowledge of healthcare technology regulations like HIPAA and HITECH. Expert knowledge of SSO, MFA, Conditional Access, and related Identity Management technology. Demonstrated highest level of understanding of system architecture, both software and hardware components. Strong knowledge of system performance and tuning techniques. Well versed in additional technologies: network, web, system security functions. Project planning and supervision. Strong organizational skills. Top level technical expert in highly specialized systems programming. Expert knowledge of personal computer hardware, including all system unit components and peripherals. Expert knowledge of Microsoft operating systems, networking software, and related items Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred: 7+ years of experience working in a healthcare setting Combination of education and experience in lieu of a degree. Working Conditions: Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur. General office environment. Required to car travel to off-site locations, occasionally in adverse weather conditions. May have periods of constant interruptions. Prolonged periods of working alone. Physical Requirements Physical Demands: Lifting/ Carrying (0-50 lbs.), Lifting/ Carrying (50-100 lbs.), Push/ Pull (0-50 lbs.), Stoop, Kneel, Squat, Balance, Bending Work Position: Sitting, Walking, Standing Additional Physical Requirements/ Hazards Physical Requirements: Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination), Perform shift work,Hear alarms/telephone/tape recorder, Reach above shoulder, Repetitive arm/hand movements, Finger Dexterity, Color Vision,Acuity - far, Acuity - near Hazards: Depth perception, Exposure to potential electrical shock Mental/Sensory -Emotional Emotional: Fast pace environment, Able to Handle Multiple Priorities,Frequent and Intense Customer Interactions,Able to Adapt to Frequent Change EEO Employer/Disabled/Protected Veteran/41 CFR 60-1.4. | |