Sr. Microsoft 365 Engineer in Newport

The Sr. Microsoft 365 Engineer is responsible for the architecture, implementation, optimization, and secure operation of Christopher Newport University’s Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365 environments. This role is instrumental in advancing the University’s cloud strategy, ensuring best practices for security and compliance, and integrating cloud services with on‑premises infrastructure.

Work Tasks

• Design and implement Microsoft 365 solutions, including identity, security, management, and collaboration services, that support CNU’s strategic goals.
• Lead Entra configurations, including Conditional Access, Hybrid Identity, and role‑based access control.
• Lead the planning and execution of the migration to Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, OneDrive for Business, and Microsoft Teams, transitioning to full ongoing administration and support upon successful deployment.
• Manage user and group lifecycle processes, including automated provisioning and de‑provisioning of accounts and services for students, faculty, and staff.
• Collaborate with the Information Security Office to implement cloud security controls and respond to audit findings.
• Manage Microsoft 365 licensing, including assignment, tracking, and optimization to ensure cost‑effectiveness and compliance.
• Stay current with Microsoft cloud offerings and proactively recommend improvements to the environment.
• Serve as the Tier 3 escalation point for complex Azure/Microsoft 365 issues from the university help desk.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for Azure/Microsoft 365 system configurations, processes, and support procedures.
• Collaborate with other IT teams (Networking, Security, Endpoint Management) to ensure a cohesive and secure technology environment.
• Provide guidance and training to faculty, staff, and IT colleagues on best practices for using Microsoft 365 tools effectively and securely.
• Develop and maintain very positive and professional customer service and/or relations within the office/department and with all constituencies, including students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees.
• Demonstrates a positive and professional attitude and treats everyone with dignity and respect.
• Fully supports the “Student’s First” value at CNU and routinely goes the extra mile in providing service.
• Follow workplace safety regulations and adhere to applicable standards, processes, and programs established for your position.
• Report unsafe work conditions to your supervisor.
• Immediately report work‑related incidents to your supervisor and participate in accident investigation requests.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSAs)

• Deep understanding of Microsoft Azure and M365 services and ecosystems or similar systems.
• Expertise in Microsoft Azure Identity Services (Entra, Entra AD Connect, Conditional Access, MFA).
• Expertise with hybrid identity solutions and integration with on‑premises systems.
• Advanced knowledge of cloud security practices, compliance frameworks (NIST, CIS), and governance policies.
• Proficiency in scripting languages such as PowerShell, Azure CLI, or Microsoft Graph.
• Proficiency with Azure monitoring and alerting platforms.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and creative problem‑solving skills.
• Proven ability to communicate independently and maintain relationships with customers, technical, and non‑technical users regarding their current technologies, business processes, and strategies.
• Proven ability to maintain focus and professionalism in a high‑stress, fast‑paced environment.

Required Education

• Master’s Degree or a Bachelor’s degree with work experience that equates to an advanced degree.

Experience Required

• Experience in Cloud or Systems Engineering.
• Experience in Azure M365 environments.

Additional Consideration – Experience

• Experience working in a hybrid cloud environment that integrates Microsoft Azure and on‑premises infrastructure, including Active Directory, DNS, and networking systems.
• Demonstrated experience leading or significantly contributing to cloud migration initiatives and the modernization of legacy services into cloud‑native or hybrid models.
• Experience integrating or managing M365 services.
• Prior involvement in security audits, incident response, or collaboration with Information Security teams to resolve technical and compliance findings.
• One or more of the following certifications (or equivalent) is strongly preferred: Microsoft 365 Certified: Enterprise Administrator Expert (MS‑102), Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate (SC‑300), Microsoft 365 Certified: Teams Administrator Associate (MS‑700).
• Experience working in a higher education IT environment.
• Experience with Microsoft Intune for mobile device and application management.
• Experience managing projects, from planning to successful implementation.
• Experience migrating services to the M365 cloud.

Salary Information

Starting at $85,000, Commensurate with Education and Experience.

CNU Information

Christopher Newport University is anchored in excellence, and that is reflected in our ranking as the #1 regional public university in Virginia and #3 among regional public universities in the South. We are an inclusive and kind community, founded on our shared values of honor, scholarship, service and leadership. We offer an outstanding liberal arts education provided by dedicated, gifted teacher‑scholars who are supported by a compassionate team of faculty and staff. Our 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students pursue more than 90 areas of study, as they live and learn on a largely residential campus. CNU’s on‑campus performing and visual arts centers offer Broadway shows, world‑class performances, engaging exhibitions, transformative lectures and classes, and more. Our athletics program is the winningest at any level in Virginia. Christopher Newport University is in the heart of Newport News, a vibrant city with breathtaking scenery and unique experiences. The city and region offer affordable neighborhoods, local and name‑brand shops, diverse dining options, local parks and water access, and fun recreational opportunities. Whatever your interests and goals, you belong at CNU!

Telework Eligibility

This position is eligible for periodic telework as determined by the department. Eligibility is not guaranteed, and is subject to supervisor approval. Eligibility will depend on the likelihood of the employee’s success in a telework arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage telework. Departments and/or Human Resources may modify or revoke eligibility at any time. Employees will be required to sign a Telework Agreement.

Application Instructions

Interested parties are requested to submit a cover letter, current resume, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references at the time of application.

Required documents:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Contact Information for At Least Three References
• Other Application Materials (optional)

Christopher Newport University will make a reasonable effort to accommodate persons with disabilities in the application and/or interview process. Persons with disabilities who require accommodation should contact the CNU Human Resources Office by calling (757) 594‑7145. Search finalists are required to complete a CNU sponsored background check. Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully committed to access and opportunity.