Job: Active Directory Subject Matter Expert Location: Dublin 15, Ireland Rate: 600-650 per day Type: Contract Duration: 6 months+ Working arrangement: Hybrid (1-3 days a week) For the role as an Active Directory Subject Matter Expert (SME) will be responsible for the design, implementation, management and support of the organisations AD environment. The AD SME will serve as the technical lead in configuring and optimising the AD infrastructure, ensuring the security, scalability, and performance of the directory services. This individual will collaborate with internal teams to integrate AD services with various applications and ensure alignment with IT security policies. Key responsibilities & duties include: Active Directory Design & Implementation:Lead the architecture, design, and deployment of complex AD infrastructure solutionsManage AD-related projects, including upgrades, migrations and integrationsDesign and implement Group Policies (GPOs) to enforce security and compliance requirementsLead efforts to modernise AD, such as implementing Azure AD and hybrid cloud solutionsDay-to-Day Operations & Support:Monitor, maintain, and support AD, DNS, DHCP and related infrastructure to ensure high availability and performanceTroubleshoot and resolve escalated AD-related issues, including authentication failures, replication errors and DNS configurationProvide advanced technical support and act as an escalation point for junior team membersConduct routine health checks, system monitoring and performance tuningEnsure the security of AD through the implementation of appropriate access controls, auditing and hardening measuresCollaborate with the security team to identify and mitigate potential security vulnerabilities in the AD environmentEnsure AD compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA) and internal policiesImplement and manage role-based access control (RBAC) and privileged access management (PAM)Backup, Disaster Recovery, and Continuity:Develop and maintain AD backup and recovery strategies, including disaster recovery planningPerform regular AD health checks and ensure that proper backup/restore procedures are in placeDocumentation & Training:Create and maintain comprehensive documentation of the AD environment, including designs, processes and configuration guidesProvide training and knowledge transfer to team members on AD best practices, security configurations and new implementationsCollaboration & Innovation:Work closely with other infrastructure teams, including networking, cloud and security teams, to ensure AD integrates seamlessly with other servicesEvaluate new technologies and tools to enhance the AD environment and contribute to strategic IT initiativesProvide recommendations for improving scalability, security and performance We are looking for people with the below level of experience: Experience with Microsoft Active Directory design, implementation, and managementStrong understanding of Windows Server platforms, AD architecture, DNS, DHCP and LDAPExperience with Group Policy management and AD forest/domain configurationsExpertise in Azure Active Directory (AAD), hybrid identity management and cloud integrationsExperience with security protocols like Kerberos, NTLM, SAML, and OAuthFamiliarity with PowerShell scripting for AD automation and administrationSecurity & Compliance:Strong knowledge of AD security best practices, including account policies, delegation, access control and auditing This is an excellent opportunity to secure a long-term contract with a well-known business based in Dublin with amazing career opportunities. If you would be interested, please submit your application to the link provided.