Job Description
	Job Title:
		Senior Automation Analyst
	Job ID:
		9839
	Location:	Iowa-Cedar Rapids
	Full/Part Time:
		Full-Time
	Regular/Temporary:
		Regular   To Apply: http://www.aegonins.com/curropenings.aspx

	Dept/Division Information
	AEGON Information Technology (AIT) is an internal division providing technology infrastructure support as well as business consulting services to the AEGON US enterprise. The information technology services encompasses regional services, enterprise-wide application services, architecture, product assessment, customer service, internet and messaging, server management, telecommunications, security, data service and more. The Shared Services unit provides internal consulting and project management services on a variety of assignments ranging from systems design and development to business process engineering.
	Responsibilities
	Job Title:  Senior Automation Analyst Location:  Cedar Rapids, IA Division:  AIT Job Ref No.:  9839 This position will be a member of the Desktop Automation Projects team and be responsible for providing automated solutions and project coordination for 9 regional and ~35 remote offices.  The person would support the automated software deployment solution of SCCM 2007.  This position would gather requirements for desktop applications and automate the installations so that little to no end user interaction is required.  This position will create complex scripts, global policy objects, and/or custom actions utilizing programming scripts, SQL, or other coding languages for the desktop environment with no assistance.  The position will be required to work closely with all Desktop Infrastructure teams to ensure that software gets deployed and installed to the desktops.  The position will also work closely with Server and Storage teams to support the SCCM infrastructure.  The position will be required to troubleshoot complex application, integration management and desktop issues associated with packaging and automated tasks.  The person will assess, implement, and document complex tools and utilities to automate desktop tasks and actions.  The successful candidate will need to work independently and manage large projects with minimal assistance throughout a project life cycle.  Other team responsibilities include creating and managing the desktop Microsoft Active Directory Group Policy Objects (GPOs) and upgrading core system software in accordance with each application’s life cycle.  This position will be responsible for managing many of the service related projects including Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, Risk Analysis and a special focus on Security. The candidate will work with the team members providing automated solutions to implement for each project.
	Qualifications
	This position will have expert knowledge of multiple hardware and/or software components with a minimum of 5 or more years of experience supporting distributed systems and experience related to MS SCCM 2007 is preferred.  A bachelors degree in computer science or related field, or equivalent work experience is required.  Related certifications (MCP, MCSE, etc.) are preferred. In addition to the skills listed above, candidates must also demonstrate the following behaviors:  attention to detail; decision making and problem solving; initiative; team work; customer focus; innovation.
	Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule
	Salary guidelines:  $66,000 - $79,000 - $92,000 This position is also bonus eligible. This position is classified as exempt for purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
	Other Information
	There is currently one opening in this job group.  The candidate will be hired as an Intermediate Automation Analyst or a Senior Automation Analyst based upon qualifications, skills and organizational needs.  Please refer to job posting 9838 for a detailed description of the Intermediate Automation Analyst position. We offer challenging assignments, competitive compensation and benefits programs and an environment supportive of your professional development.  All candidates must successfully pass a thorough background investigation including verification of past employment, education, criminal history and other information. This position is eligible for the Employee Referral Bonus Program. Candidates hired will be employees of Transamerica Life Insurance Company of America.
	Equal Employment Opportunity
	Equal Opportunity Employer

 

To Apply: http://www.aegonins.com/curropenings.aspx

The SCCM Architect a self motivated contributor to a core team responsible for leading the advancement of a Fortune 500 Infrastructure organization with 16,000 SCCM Clients across 300 global sites. Candidates will provide expertise in architecting and deploying Enterprise Desktop solutions that includes Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) 2007, Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2007/2010, Windows OS platform and solutions from the Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack (MDOP). The ideal consultant will also be well versed in the guidance and best practices associated with the planning and deployment of the desktop infrastructure. This includes the Engineering of the Operating System, Packaging and deployment of applications, Infrastructure remediation to support, secure and manage the desktop environment.

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Candidate must have extensive experience with SCCM, MDT, Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack (MDOP), and Windows Operating Systems. Candidates should be hard working individuals with the willingness to meet high customer satisfaction levels and provide industry thought leadership around Desktop Lifecycle Management.

 

This position offers an individual an exciting opportunity for the leadership and delivery of project-based assignments that encompass system architecture, proof-of-concept and deployment services. These projects focus around the latest Microsoft desktop solutions including Windows 7, Windows XP, SCCM, Group Policy Preferences, etc. The team member will be responsible for:

 

•Leadership and delivery of project based assignments that encompass Desktop image standardization, application packaging and deployment, group policy, proof-of-concept and deployment services for the Enterprise.

•Leading client architecture, configuration and planning meetings.

•Performing system reviews of client network environments and preparing findings documents outlining short and long-term strategies or documenting architecture design decisions.

•Utilize the latest industry tools and practices for helping to execute desktop management initiatives.

•Working closely with Microsoft as part of delivering these solutions.

•Responsible for managing smaller projects or segments of larger projects.

 

 

•Strong experience in architecting, planning and implementing Windows 7/ Windows XP, and desktop management infrastructure projects encompassing 16,000 seats including group policy and security aspects

•The ideal candidate will also be able to provide guidance with the planning and deployment of application packages in an Enterprise environment.

•Experience in scripting using VbScript, Windows Scripting Host, and Powershell

•Experience with Windows Server and Active Directory Technologies.

•Experience with Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) solution accelerator.

•Able to design, create, debug and install Zero Touch Deployment Methodology.

•Strong customer relationship skills and willingness to lead customers through successful, challenging projects.

•Candidates should be hard-working individuals with the willingness to meet high customer satisfaction levels and provide industry thought leadership.

•Proven project management and methodology skills.

•Seven years minimum experience in Desktop Engineering and Management

•Excellent verbal and written skills

•Five years minimum experience with Microsoft infrastructure technologies across a large enterprise environment.

 

 

SPECIFIC TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS:

 

•Experience with Application Compatibility Toolkit (ACT)

•Experience with Microsoft Assessment and Planning Tool (MAP)

•Experience implementing the solutions of the Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack (MDOP)

•Experience with Group Policy Preferences (GPP)

•Knowledge and experience with configuring Direct Access and Branch cache for Windows 7

•Knowledge and experience with configuring Internet Based Client Management for SCCM

 

 

Contact:  Russ.Rimmerman@c-a-m.com

I am looking for a strong SCCM resource in Seattle for a 6 month solid project. This is a full time, contract for 6 month.

 

--
Matthew Tinney
(206) 778 4432
Windows Management Experts, Inc. - The Microsoft Systems Center Experts!
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/3/b81/371

I'm looking for a management pack developer with at least 3+ years of experience working with MOM 2005/SCOM 2007 that has a niche developing management packs. The ideal candidate should be able to:

- Identify the events required to meet business objectives

- Develop appropriate thresholds and parameters

- Develop alert logic, failure, and reset criteria

- Create the Operations Management Pack from start to finish, including testing and validation

- Identifies key elements required to accurately discover objects to monitor and alert on

- Provides a structured process for the development process such that it can be leveraged by other team members

Contact me at windowsmgmtexperts@gmail.com immediately if you are available. This project will be based out of Seattle. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

If you are an experienced hands-on Deployment / Imaging Solutions Architect Consultant that meets the requirements below and you have the desire to join a high-caliber team of consultants who deliver exceptional infrastructure services for our customers, you should contact us about this outstanding opportunity. LRS Consulting Services has over 25 years of consulting experience providing a variety of technology consulting to our customers alone and in partnership with others. (LRS) was named the 2005 Microsoft Advanced Infrastructure Worldwide Partner of the Year. LRS maintains partnerships with several industry leaders such as Microsoft (Gold Certified Partner), Cisco (Premier Certified Partner), and IBM (Premier Partner). We are also a Microsoft managed partner and are part of their partner advisory council. (This makes us one of the top 150 Microsoft partners in the USA).

LRS is successfully partnering with a U.S. based Global IT Hardware Manufacture on many exciting endeavors. This latest endeavor is providing the opportunity for employment for deployment architects that currently reside in the Atlanta metro area. This is a great opportunity to work with two great technology companies at the same time! The right fit for these positions have experience as solutions oriented consultants that have worked with the highest levels of organizations to develop and implement solutions. The right candidates will have titles and experience as project managers, team leaders, architects, consultants (not contractors), subject matter experts, systems engineers etc. Candidates that have experience working with Microsoft or Microsoft partners in consulting roles are preferred.

The Deployment/Imaging Consultant will assist our customer with the design and implementation of a new OS/Imaging deployment solution. The Deployment / Imaging Consultant will work directly with our customer to support desktop deployment and desktop management scenarios. These are NOT desktop support or desktop technician roles.

If you are a customer focused senior-level professional with strong skills in desktop imaging / OS deployment experience using Ghost and/or ImageX, application packaging /pushing using Systems Management Tools (SMS or any other), and strong VB Scripting skills, submit your resume to hropp@lrs.com or Melissa.Holmes@lrs.com.  Visit us at www.LRS.com.

LRS is an equal opportunity employer 

 

REQUIREMENTS

 

o Must have at least three years of experience performing as a consultant (not contractor) including interfacing with clients.

Must have at least three years of experience leading desktop deployment projects including designing light touch or zero touch desktop deployments, implementing new tools/technology, and performing hands-on technical work.

Must have  experience with one or more of the following: automated inventory collection, desktop service support and/or administration, imaging/provisioning solutions, desktop configuration and patch management, complex change and/or release management cycles, security or vulnerability assessments, financial justification/management for IT services

Experience with a Microsoft partner preferred.

o At least 5 years of experience within IT enterprise environments of at least 2000 desktop/client machines required.

o At least 3 years of experience with IT desktop management systems including Microsoft SMS and any of the following: Microsoft SMS and/or SCCM, Marimba, CA Unicenter, IBM Tivoli, HP OpenView or Altiris.
o At least 3 years of experience with one or more of the following: automated inventory collection, desktop service support and/or administration, imaging/provisioning solutions, desktop configuration and patch management, complex change and/or release management cycles, security or vulnerability assessments, financial justification/management for IT services.
o Must successfully demonstrate a strong working knowledge of:
o Asset Management Suites and System Management Suites eg.. SMS, Altiris.
o standard client platform administration, configuration, rights management and file access, and TCP/IP networks including DHCP, DNS, and WINS.
o Windows registry, interaction of drivers within the OS, and unattended/silent installs of Windows operating systems
o internet technologies, including IIS, HTML, XML, HTTP, HTTPS, and FTP
o network infrastructure components, including routers, switches, subnets, V-LANs, Ethernet, and Token Ring
o basic imaging concepts & best practices
o basic application packaging and distribution methods
o tools, such as Windows Scripting Host, KIXTART, PERL, WISE Packaging Studio or Install Shield
o Windows automation scripting such as WMI, ADSI, VBScript, Batch Files
o Candidates must reside in the Atlanta metro region or be willing to work in Atlanta at “local” pay. (no expenses etc)

PREFERRED

o Bachelor's degree in IT field
o Knowledge of Dell Deployment tools is beneficial
o MCSE

 

Melissa Holmes McMillan  –  Senior Technical Recruiter

LRS Consulting Services

9200 Indian Creek Parkway, Overland Park, Kansas, 66210

O: 913.339.9200 x2312 (Yes, I just sent my phone number out to everyone on MyITForum. . . I am serious about talking about these roles with those that are qualified & interested!)

Melissa.Holmes@lrs.com | www.lrs.com

Looking to fill two government contract positions for a large, widely distributed, enterprise deployment of SMS 2003/SCCM 2007 that is based out of San Antonio, TX.

Security background checks and certification requirements may apply to these positions.

SMS/SCCM Administrator - some responsibilities include working as a member of a  team to deploy new SCCM site and component servers, maintain the health of existing SMS/SCCM servers and clients, and provide support and training to local SMS/SCCM Administrators. Person with background in development and SQL query design is desired as extensive custom reporting is a job requirement.

SMS/SCCM Packager - some responsibilities include working as a member of a team to create, test and publish enterprise level packages for distribution by local site Administrators, and provide support for package and deployment related issues to local site Administrators. Person with extensive backgroup using Wise Package Studio, with emphasis on Wise Script Editor, and VBScript, as well as a advanced knowledge of Windows XP/2003, Windows Installer and VMWare Workstation is desired.

For more information or for application details, please email me:

Thanks,
David Le Noir
david.lenoir@us.army.mil

We are looking for a Windows packaging administrator behalf of our client, Boston Scientific.  This position is based in Natick, MA.

Summary

This role is responsible for the analysis, design, testing, packaging and distribution of applications for the BSC windows clients and servers using SMS. Research new technologies and their potential match to business solutions. Qualified candidates will have the opportunity to expand their role to support SharePoint 2007 and Citrix.
Key technologies supported include Windows 2000 & XP, SMS/SCCM, Symantec Antivirus, McAfee Antivirus, EPO and Agent, SpySweeper, Winbatch scripting, Wise Installer, VB scripting, Robocopy, Integrity Desktop Firewall, Global Systems Distribution, Group Policy Management, Patch Management, Cisco VPN solutions, Pointsec Encryption solutions, Citrix, MS Sharepoint 2007

This role will be performed in a quality system environment. It is important that the qualified candidate be extremely procedure-oriented because failure to adequately perform tasks can result in noncompliance with governmental regulations.

Responsibilities

• Work with customers to understand packaging requirements.
• Packages and tests packages with user.
• Deploys packages via SMS.
• Troubleshoot and resolve distribution failures and work with the team to initiate corrective or alternative actions.
• Ensure system availability and integrity by developing and executing validated system management and component deployment processes.
• Develop system management utility programs and interfaces by completing program design, coding, debugging and documentation.
• Upgrade infrastructure components by researching, testing and installing application upgrades and patches.
• Develop compliance reports on the success and failure of patches/package distribution.
• Test infrastructure architecture by preparing and conducting system and programming tests requiring interfacing of hardware and software.
• Expanded responsibilities may include support, monitoring, troubleshooting and packaging applications for the Citrix solution.
• Expanded responsibilities may include support, monitoring, troubleshooting and packaging applications for the SharePoint solution. This would include migration of sites between solutions and assisting users in the creation of new sites.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree plus 5+ years of related work experience
• Comprehensive knowledge of a particular technological field.

Contact: Matthew.Barber@veritude.com (617) 563-8553

Veritude^® is a Fidelity Investments company and a leading provider of strategic human resources — the talent, technology and tactics that growing organizations need to anticipate and adapt to changes in the workplace.

Veritude is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and supports a diversified environment.

System Center Configuration Manager

MOF Snippet for ServiceDLL in registry - by request

by Sherry Kissinger - 1/19/2009

By request, a script + mof edit to pull back the values in HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\ <servicename> \parameters\ServiceDll

SMS 2003

MOF Snippet for ServiceDLL in registry - by request

by Sherry Kissinger - 1/19/2009

By request, a script + mof edit to pull back the values in HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\ <servicename> \parameters\ServiceDll

System Center Operations Manager

Operations Manager Utility: GreenMachine

by Scott Moss - 1/19/2009

Tim Helton created a new Operations Manager utility GreenMachine, that can be used to reset or recalculate all monitors for a single agent, or for all agents in your management group.

Scripting

Get Active Directory Site for IP Address

by Maik Koster - 1/19/2009

During the preparation of the SMS/SCCM Webservice for MDT/OSD Deployments I came across a problem to get the Active Directory Site for a given IP Address. There were a couple of examples available on the Internet but most of them just called the DsGetDcName API.

Windows PowerShell

Get Information About the Computer Fan

by Rod Trent - 1/19/2009

This PowerShell script shows information about the installed computer/laptop fan.

Web Technologies

ISA Server 2006 - Installing, Configuring and Using the ISA 2006 Cache Directory Tool

by lynn lunik - 1/19/2009

When using Internet Security and Acceleration Server 2006 (ISA2k6) Standard Edition at the Perimeter of your Network in the Web Caching (sometimes referred to as Forward Caching) Role occasionally it is necessary to view, remove or validate specific Web Site URL Content within the ISA2k6 Cache.

Active Directory and Group Policy

Get Active Directory Site for IP Address

by Maik Koster - 1/19/2009

During the preparation of the SMS/SCCM Webservice for MDT/OSD Deployments I came across a problem to get the Active Directory Site for a given IP Address. There were a couple of examples available on the Internet but most of them just called the DsGetDcName API.

Virtualization

Hyper-V: Configuration Steps - Exporting a Guest Partition

by lynn lunik - 1/19/2009

There are several scenarios where Exporting a Guest Partition is appropriate. The most common scenario is when a new Hyper-V Host Server is brought online to offer additional capacity, or a newly configured 'High Availability' configuration of Hyper-V is made available.

Microsoft Deployment

OSD Application Chooser 1.1

by Jason Sandys - 1/19/2009

I’ve updated my OSDAppChooser app to include a requested feature.

System Center News

Announcing the release of the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2010 Beta

by Rod Trent - 1/14/2009

MDT 2010 is the next version of Microsoft Deployment Toolkit, a solution accelerator for operating system and application deployment. New features like flexible driver management, optimized transaction processing, and access to distribution shares from any location simplify deployment.

System Center Configuration Manager

SMS/ConfigMgr - Create status MIFs using batch script with no dependencies

by John Nelson - 1/14/2009

In a past position, I've tried to use a utility from the Back Office Resource Kit called ismif32.exe to create status MIFs for those programs that aren't MSI-based or don't have the ability to create status mifs. The problem I've had is that it just didn't always work.

SMS 2003

SMS/ConfigMgr - Create status MIFs using batch script with no dependencies

by John Nelson - 1/14/2009

In a past position, I've tried to use a utility from the Back Office Resource Kit called ismif32.exe to create status MIFs for those programs that aren't MSI-based or don't have the ability to create status mifs. The problem I've had is that it just didn't always work.

Windows PowerShell

Powershell Script to create new registry key value on remote computers

by Ying Li - 1/14/2009

In my previous post, I explore the ways to get remote registry key property. Here is a PowerShell script to create a new registry key value in remote registry.

Windows Mobile

Windows Live Search Mobile v4.0 Available

by Marco Nielsen - 1/14/2009

If you haven't already I highly recommend that you upgrade your Live Search to the latest version previewed at CES last week.

Microsoft Deployment

Announcing the release of the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) 2010 Beta

by Rod Trent - 1/14/2009

MDT 2010 is the next version of Microsoft Deployment Toolkit, a solution accelerator for operating system and application deployment. New features like flexible driver management, optimized transaction processing, and access to distribution shares from any location simplify deployment.

System Center Configuration Manager

Software Install Review via the Add Remove Table

by Shaun Cassells - 1/13/2009

I was reading Joe Funk’s Blog Post SMS Reports - Software Install Review. I noticed he was using the v_GS_INSTALLED_SOFTWARE table which is included with Asset Intelligence features or ConfigMgr 2007.

SMS 2003

Software Install Review via the Add Remove Table

by Shaun Cassells - 1/13/2009

I was reading Joe Funk’s Blog Post SMS Reports - Software Install Review. I noticed he was using the v_GS_INSTALLED_SOFTWARE table which is included with Asset Intelligence features or ConfigMgr 2007.

Windows PowerShell

Getting Win32_AccountSID Information

by Rod Trent - 1/13/2009

Use this PowerShell script to retrieve information contained in the Win32_AccountSID WMI class.

Security

Getting Win32_AccountSID Information

by Rod Trent - 1/13/2009

Use this PowerShell script to retrieve information contained in the Win32_AccountSID WMI class.

Windows

Windows Process Explorer

by Brian Tucker - 1/13/2009

Windows Process Explorer gives much more information than Task Manager ever thought of giving.

Virtualization

Solution to: HyperV unstable vmms service crashes periodically

by Richard Dixon - 1/13/2009

Problem Statement: I am getting an error, that is causing the hyperV to be unstable. I have 3 hyperV servers in my test env, runnning about 45 clients. All 3 are reporting this error at some point through the day.

Ohio System Center User Group hosted by Bennett Adelson.

From the Microsoft Solution Center at Bennett Adelson, we invite you to join us for the Ohio System Center User Group. This group’s focus is on the Microsoft suite of applications for managing and maintaining the infrastructure environment bundled under the System Center umbrella. This suite includes Configuration Manager (ConfigMgr), Operations Manager (OpsMgr), Virtual Machine Manager, Reporting Services, Mobile Device Manager, and Data Protection Manager. Please join us in the Microsoft Solution Center for introductions to the technology, technical deep dives, as well as advanced topics to extend and support your solutions. This is a great opportunity to join with your peers in the Ohio area and learn from the presenter and each other.

January, 2009 Meeting: Desired Configuration Management (DCM) Presented by Kevin Parr, Microsoft

Monitoring configuration changes across the network is a growing IT challenge. Configuration errors account for the vast majority of unplanned downtime for servers and workstations alike. What’s more, organizations face intense pressure to comply with increasingly rigorous regulatory requirements. With the constantly changing nature of technology, many organizations must dedicate vast amounts of IT time and resources to ensure their systems remain compliant.  During this user group session we will provide an overview of DCM, a demo on this feature and talk about how you can leverage it to reduce configuration related incidents and reduce your cost for compliance reporting.

Kevin Parr is a Principal Technology Specialist focusing on Microsoft's System Center technology solutions covering Enterprises in Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee.  Prior to joining this role, Kevin was a Senior Consultant working in Microsoft Consulting Services for six years focusing on large scale deployments around management solutions.

When: January 26^th, 5:45 – 7:30 pm

Where:  Microsoft Office

6050 Oak Tree Blvd. Suite 300

Independence, Ohio 44113

Who: Lead by Jason Condo, Bennett Adelson with Guest Speaker Kevin Parr - System Center Technical Specialist, Microsoft

What: Desired Configuration Management (DCM) in System Center Configuration Manager 2007

To register and for any questions, please reply to ncicerchi@bennettadelson.com.  We look forward to you joining us!

System Center Configuration Manager

List of default Task Sequence Variables

by Donnie Taylor - 1/12/2009

Here is a handy link to the Technet library page that contains all of the default Task Sequence Variables.

Scripting

VBS Script To Send Basic Machine Information To Excel

by Don Hite - 1/12/2009

This VBS Script will send the following information for a specified machine name to excel: Machine Name, User Name, Operating System, Build Version, Manufacturer and Model.

Windows PowerShell

Get Root Directory Information for Logical Drives

by Rod Trent - 1/12/2009

Use this PowerShell script to show the root directory for connected logical drives in the operating system.

SQL Server

SQL Query To Find Machine Resources With No SMS Unique Identifiers Or GUIDS

by Don Hite - 1/12/2009

This SQL Query will list all of the machine resources that do not have an SMS Unique Identifier or GUID.

Hardware and Gadgets

6gb SATA standard coming in Q2 of 2009

by Shaun Cassells - 1/12/2009

The folks behind the Serial ATA standard have been working on drafting a new, faster spec for a little while now, but it looks like things are finally starting to firm up, and SATA-IO marketing chair Conrad Maxwell now says that the new 6Gb/s standard is on track for release in the second quarter.

Support Management

Transition to Consulting - Swimming with the Sharks, the Year in Review

by Brad Bird - 1/12/2009

In October 2007, I made the decision to leave my former full-time employment with the University of Ottawa for a far more risky venture, independent consulting.

System Center Mobile Device Manager

SCMDM 2008 SP1 Reporting Services Overview

by Marco Nielsen - 1/12/2009

Out of the box the MDM comes with a limited reporting functionality, mostly in the Deployment Console. However since the product is using SQL Server as it's data repository, there is a great value to download and use the free SCMDM 2008 Reporting Services add-on.

System Center Configuration Manager

VBScript for Computer Association with logging

by Donnie Taylor - 1/9/2009

Here is a quick and dirty vbscript that will generate a computer associate between 2 resourceids, logging information to your systemdrive\ConfigMgrComputerAssociation.log.

SMS 2003

Find Hyperthread enabled computers

by Sherry Kissinger - 1/9/2009

Confirm your SMS2003 or ConfigMgr environment is reporting on 2 elements.

Scripting

VBScript for Computer Association with logging

by Donnie Taylor - 1/9/2009

Here is a quick and dirty vbscript that will generate a computer associate between 2 resourceids, logging information to your systemdrive\ConfigMgrComputerAssociation.log.

Windows PowerShell

PowerShell Script to shutdown multiple remote computers

by Ying Li - 1/9/2009

In my previous post, I described the restart-computer cmdlet. There is also a sister cmdlet. Yes, you guessed it right: Shutdown-computer

Windows

Old School Dual Boot Configured on my Dell Latitude E6500

by Brad Bird - 1/9/2009

I have not had a reason to use dual boot in years. Right now, out of all the systems that I own, my Dell Latitude E6500 is the most powerful.

SQL Server

Updating Statistics in SQL (and why you need to do it)

by Donnie Taylor - 1/9/2009

SQL server uses statistics to keep track of values in an index, and determine when and how to use that particular index while processing a query. This is a horribly simplified definition, but basically it means that statistics are a way for SQL to find the best index to use.

Hardware and Gadgets

Unofficial Fix for Zune 30’s that didn't repair on Jan 1st

by Christopher Stauffer - 1/9/2009

The Official fix worked for my Zune 30 but, my wife’s Zune did not repair on January 1st so I thought I was going to have to buy her a new Zune but I found a solution.

Microsoft Deployment

Suppress Plug and Play UI

by Jason Sandys - 1/9/2009

Microsoft just released a new hotfix that allows you to suppress the plug and play UI in Windows XP and Server 2003.

eBook: Understanding Microsoft Virtualization Solutions from the Desktop to the DataCenter

By Mitch Tulloch

Change Execute Permissions

RDP History

System Center Data Protection Manager 2007 Management Pack for Operations Manager 2007

Microsoft System Center Data Protection Manager 2007 (DPM) is a server software application that enables data protection and recovery for protected computers within Active Directory domains. With the DPM...

MMS 2009 Justification document from Chris Stauffer

MMS 2009 Justification document from Chris Stauffer

System Center Configuration Manager

Rebuilding Indexes in ConfigMgr Databases

by Donnie Taylor - 1/7/2009

If you want to rebuild all indexes in the ConfigMgr database, which is quite a lengthy and process consuming task, you can run this query.

Scripting

VBS Script Get Add And Remove Programs For A Specified Machine

by Don Hite - 1/7/2009

This VBS Script will list the add and remove installed applications for a specified machine and send the results to excel.

Windows PowerShell

Get Information About Built-in Devices

by Rod Trent - 1/7/2009

Use this PowerShell script to retrieve information about the computer's onboard components.

SQL Server

SQL 2005 Won't Start After Loading SP2 or SP2 Update

by John Marcum - 1/7/2009

If you load SP2 for SQL 2005 or an update to SP2 for SQL 2005 and then SQL will not start and you get an error that says a database file is corrupt and needs to be restored from backup here's what you do to fix it.

Virtualization

Virtual Machines found stuck with status

by Richard Dixon - 1/7/2009

Recently I found some of my virtual machines stuck in a starting state. When I right click on the VMs that's stuck in the starting state, I only receive the following options: Connect...; Settings...; Rename... and Help.

Microsoft Deployment

Set or Get a single Setting from MDT Database

by Maik Koster - 1/7/2009

After implementing the function to Update the Computerinformation in MDT as explained in the last post, I found more and more settings from the MDT Database.

Support Technician III

Type: Full-time 8-5 M-F, Rotating on call support until 8 PM
Location: San Antonio, Texas Downtown Area

Basic Function:
Provides computer systems technical support for customers, both internal and external, in a Help Desk environment to include operating systems, communication software, desktop configuration, Intranet, Internet, security, end-user applications, and telephony. Performs daily operations maintenance work and develops processes to reduce production downtime and obtain greater proficiencies that result in a better customer experience.
Principal Accountabilities (Essential Functions)

• Implements, documents, maintains, and supports company’s networks (LAN/WAN), operating systems, communication software, desktop configuration, server configuration, Intranet, Internet, security, end-user applications, and telephony in the most cost effective, timely, secure, and reliable manner.
• Researches and provides recommendations for new and innovative technologies in areas of responsibility, and other related emerging technologies with direct benefit to business needs and within business parameters.
• Provides effective, responsive, and friendly service and support to both internal and external customers in areas of responsibility. Acts as problem solver by establishing a feedback mechanism to ensure that chronic problems are eliminated.
• Performs network backup, fine-tuning, and daily monitoring and maintenance tasks as needed. This includes activities such as resetting passwords, monitoring network traffic, and desktop/server imaging and installation.
• Develops a variety of technology operations reports that assist in managing performance in areas of responsibility.
• Provide recommendations for improving company’s infrastructure and hardware based on assessing needs in areas of responsibility.
• Acts as a customer support representative, investigates, and resolves network, hardware application, and database support requests. Coordinates with the appropriate technical resource within information systems department to resolve issues if point of contact resolution is not successful.
• Provide data processing, scripting, auditing, monitoring and quality assurance services
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Problem Solving/Decision Making
Ability to work with little direct supervision. Must be able to trouble shoot and make decisions about the employees’ and managers’ computer systems that could affect the performance of the related departments. Must work well under pressure.
Contacts and Relationships
Experience working with customers by phone and directly in a professional manner. Excellent verbal and written skills.
Physical Environment
This position works primarily in a climate controlled office. This Position also works in a server room which is kept at a temperature of about 60-65 degrees. There may be some cabling involved requiring working on ladders or crawl space, as well as working with electronic equipment. Must be able to lift 25 lbs.
Skills:

• Experience, Knowledge and Skills Required (Know How)
• Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline or equivalent work experience of at least 5 years in a Windows based network environment.
• Experience with Windows Active Directory administration
• Working knowledge with Exchange 2003/2007
• Working knowledge of VMWare
• Working knowledge with SQL 2000/2005/2008
• Working knowledge with Citrix management and implementation
• Technical certifications with Cisco, Microsoft, CompTia, International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, preferred but not required.

Scope of Responsibility
Primary support contact for all data network infrastructure, database, and Windows environments. Secondary support for all proprietary computer hardware and software involving all business lines.

Email your resume to itjobs@sarma.com. Compensation varies based on experience

Script to create SCCM Site boundaries automatically

Some time ago I posted some scripts on how to create site boundaries via script in SMS ( http://alipka.wordpress.com/2007/05/21/automating-sms-2003-secondary-site-installations/ ). For SCCM apparently...

Updated & Improved - ConfigMgr 2007 OS Deployment MP

Finally I have found the time to post an updated version of the custom Configuration Manager 2007 OS Deployment Management Pack. This version (6.0.6278.6) includes the following changes: Updated the Task...

Updated & Improved - Custom Windows Server OS Management Pack

Shortly before the Christmas holiday, a colleague from Premier had reached out to me to verify that in the Active Directory management pack, when a DC is demoted some cleanup actions are automatically...

System Center News

1E Free Tool Available - SERVICE WINDOW

by Rod Trent - 1/6/2009

Provides a graphical interface that allows an administrative user to view, add, edit and delete maintenance windows (service windows) on a selected target computer.

System Center Configuration Manager

Script Skeleton for ConfigMgr with Logging

by Donnie Taylor - 1/6/2009

If you are like me, you want a consistent look to your scripts, verbose yet readable output, and a quick connection to your SCCM server or client. Here is a script framework that I use when developing new code.

System Center Operations Manager

SC Operations Manager 2007 SP1 - Validating the SPN Entries for Root Management Server and the SDK and Config User ID

by lynn lunik - 1/6/2009

I wanted to record for reference the 'normal' SPN entries for a SCOM2k7 SP1 Root Management Server, along with the SDK and Config User ID in a single server configuration.

Scripting

Script Skeleton for ConfigMgr with Logging

by Donnie Taylor - 1/6/2009

If you are like me, you want a consistent look to your scripts, verbose yet readable output, and a quick connection to your SCCM server or client. Here is a script framework that I use when developing new code.

Windows PowerShell

PowerShell Script to restart multiple remote computers

by Ying Li - 1/6/2009

Right before Christmas, PowerShell team released Windows PowerShell V2 Community Technology Preview 3 (CTP3).

Security

Security Audit Events for Windows 2008 and Windows Vista

by lynn lunik - 1/6/2009

Finally, a single Worksheet has been generated by Microsoft which begins to document Security Audit Events instead of referencing 3 or 5 'Security Guides' that partially reference specific Audit Event values.

Windows

Security Audit Events for Windows 2008 and Windows Vista

by lynn lunik - 1/6/2009

Finally, a single Worksheet has been generated by Microsoft which begins to document Security Audit Events instead of referencing 3 or 5 'Security Guides' that partially reference specific Audit Event values.

Exchange Server

Update Rollup 5 for Exchange Server 2007 SP1 (KB941421)

by lynn lunik - 1/6/2009

The Exchange Team has offered a current Update Rollup for Ex2k7 SP1. This Update Rollup addresses a challenge encountered by Ex2k7 Servers that cannot directly access the Internet by a routed path.

Web Technologies

OutTwit Search/Track Keywords

by John Gormly - 1/6/2009

Ok, so I’ve described how I search the incoming messages from Twitter to find the stuff I want to read first quickly. But having said that, do you really need to follow everyone just because they may have mentioned something your interested in once?

Microsoft Deployment

Using Roles for software assignment in MDT

by Maik Koster - 1/6/2009

Within MDT you can define your specific settings via computer definition, Make/Model, Location or Roles. Also Applications in LTI or Packages in SCCM can be defined this way. But instead of assigning the applications/packages directly to a location or computer I suggest to use roles instead.

Active Directory Engineer Needed

JOB TITLE: Systems Engineers, IV (208041-4)

FUNCTION:  Business Operations                                    JOB SECTION: Systems Architect Engineering
BUSINESS UNIT: ISS                                                    JOB FAMILY:  Systems Engineer
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY:   Responsible for architectural design and development of hardware, software, and the networking systems.  Provides an architectural framework for system development, maintenance, and enhancement efforts.  Implements standards and guidelines. Analyzes systems and performance usability testing to ensure performance and reliability, enhance scalability, and meet security requirements. Keeps informed of emerging technologies.
Level IV - Systems Engineer #208044 (Windows/Active Directory Engineer)
·          SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE:
o    Rackspace is currently seeking a talented Active directory Engineer who will participate in the evaluation, planning, designing, implementation, maintenance and migration of Active Directory in an Enterprise
o    Excellent knowledge of MIS objectives and strategies.
o    Excellent technical knowledge in technology methodologies, design, and implementation.
o    Excellent analytical and design skills at multi-product/multi-environment level.
o    Aware of business issues as they impact overall project plans. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
o    Centralized Identity Management Leveraging Active Directory; prefer experience with Centrify.
o    Basic understanding of Linux and Windows
o    Assess and recommend architectural designs/changes to customer systems in response to business or technical drivers Deliver project responsibilities within project plan timeline. This individual will evaluate technology solutions supporting business requirements specific to a complex Windows 2000/2003 Server Enterprise infrastructure environment. These responsibilities will focus on enterprise architecture, design, and escalation engineering and support. The definition and support of security requirements and policies within the hardware/software configuration is required. The ability to work collaboratively with good communication skills is essential. The position will be required to meet required service levels, maintain the technology, and provide capacity management supporting business growth.
o    Able to resolve problems in a timely manner.
o    Experience with Active Directory, Exchange and Microsoft core infrastructure technologies
o    Strong networking background and experience is required. Must have experience in system level solution testing including test planning, test cases design, test execution, test tools and test automation.
o    Excellent written, presentation, and verbal communication skills including demonstrated experience presenting technology recommendations from a business perspective
·          JOB COMPLEXITY: 
o    Responsible for complex architectural design and development of hardware, software and networking systems. 
o    Analyzes systems and determines business requirements.
o    Ensures completeness and compatibility of the technical infrastructure to support system performance.  Requires leading-edge skills in the latest areas of new technology.
o    Ability to reason and think logically
o    Strong attention to detail in regards to project planning and documentation
o    Strong organizational skills
o    Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and with written documentation
o    Exceptional work ethic
o    Display willingness to help others, a pleasant personality, a courteous manner, and a professional demeanor
o    Ability to apply judgment, implement solutions, and resolve conflicts, all in a multi-tasked environment
·          SUPERVISION:
o    Operates under minimal supervision.
·          EXPERIENCE: 
o    Bachelor's degree in business or computer science.
o    Usually requires six plus years of information systems architecture and project management experience.
o    Microsoft MCSE - Required
·          PHYSICAL DEMANDS: General office environment.  Considerable stress may occur at times. Some lifting up to 20 pounds required.
Interested? Send an email with your reusme/CV to amy.horowitz@rackspace.com

Proactive Monitoring with Microsoft System Center Operations Manager Datasheet

Proactive Monitoring combines the implementation of incident and problem management processes with technical tools and reports to tune Microsoft System Center Operations Manager for your environment.

Systems Management Server Health Check Datasheet

The Microsoft Systems Management Server (SMS) Health Check provides insights into the health of your SMS environment. This multi-day engagement uses a number of tools to collect data and statistics of...

System Virtualization Health Check Datasheet

The Microsoft System Virtualization Health Check provides insights into your virtualization infrastructure planning and insights into the configuration of your Virtual Server environment. This single day...

WSUS, SCE & Security Visio Stencils

For some time I have the idea of grouping some Stencils and create other so we can generate charts on Microsoft Visio about WSUS, System Center Essentials, etc.. Some charts were taken from the Microsoft...

BETA 1 of KiXtart 2010 4 61

System Center News

InterOp Connectors Released

by David StClair - 1/5/2009

I got this following email a couple of days ago. The InterOp Connectors have been released. This should make the R2 version of Operations Manager a complete end to end solution.

System Center Configuration Manager

Using Roles to deploy Applications based on previous Applications - Part 1 (ZTI - Refresh Scenario)

by Maik Koster - 1/5/2009

One common question regarding the deployment of a new operating system especially on refresh or replacement scenarios is how the user will get his previous applications back.

SMS 2003

SMS Reports - Software Install Review

by Joe Funk - 1/5/2009

Recently I had a request to create a 'software install review' report that could minimally determine what specific software products had been installed, and where they had been installed, over the past 24 hours.

System Center Operations Manager

InterOp Connectors Released

by David StClair - 1/5/2009

I got this following email a couple of days ago. The InterOp Connectors have been released. This should make the R2 version of Operations Manager a complete end to end solution.

Scripting

VBS Script To Scan For Machines And Return Their NOS Information

by Don Hite - 1/5/2009

This VBS script will allow you to scan your domain for machines and retrieve their Network Operating System (NOS) basic information.

Windows PowerShell

Getting Information About the Windows Desktop Settings

by Rod Trent - 1/5/2009

User this PowerShell script to retrieve the Windows Desktop settings.

Security

Find Users with Failed Logins

by Rod Trent - 1/5/2009

Use this PowerShell script to retrieve failed user logins from Active Directory.

Active Directory and Group Policy

Find Users with Failed Logins

by Rod Trent - 1/5/2009

Use this PowerShell script to retrieve failed user logins from Active Directory.

Virtualization

Hyper-V-Virtual Machine Manager 2008 (VMM) Uninstall

by David StClair - 1/5/2009

Over the last few months we have been playing with the Beta version of Virtual Machine Manager. A few days ago I decided to uninstall the beta version and install the RTM version.

Microsoft Deployment

Using Roles to deploy Applications based on previous Applications - Part 1 (ZTI - Refresh Scenario)

by Maik Koster - 1/5/2009

One common question regarding the deployment of a new operating system especially on refresh or replacement scenarios is how the user will get his previous applications back.

The events for January 2009 are available:

http://www.myitforum.com/forums/calendar.asp?calendarID=1&caldate=2009-01-01

 

System Center Configuration Manager

New Dell OMCI and ConfigMgr Integration Whitepaper

by Donnie Taylor - 12/18/2008

We are pleased to announce that a new Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation (OMCI) and ConfiMgr whitepaper - complete with MOF extensions - has been launched!

System Center Operations Manager

Operations Manager 2007 Powershell: More on the fly alert reports

by Scott Moss - 12/18/2008

A few quick and dirty reports to find out what open alerts are or are not created by a monitor.

Scripting

By Request Net Send VBS Script

by Don Hite - 12/18/2008

This By Request VBS script will allow you to send a message to a remote machine.

Windows PowerShell

Getting NAP Client Information

by Rod Trent - 12/18/2008

Use this PowerShell script to retrieve information about the Network Access Protection Client.

SQL Server

Asset Intelligence Customized Catalog Custom Labels SQL Query

by Don Hite - 12/18/2008

Provided here is a SQL version of the Asset Intelligence customized catalog custom labels report.

Network Access Protection

Getting NAP Client Information

by Rod Trent - 12/18/2008

Use this PowerShell script to retrieve information about the Network Access Protection Client.

myITforum Daily Newsletter

 

Configuresoft Enterprise Configuration Manager

Enterprise Configuration Manager (ECM) enables IT to automate their common processes and achieve configuration intelligence. ECM collects tens of thousands of asset, security and configuration settings...

myITforum Daily Newsletter

Seattle, WA - Exchange Admins Needed

 

Multiple openings for Exchange admins in Seattle, WA. Experience with Exchange required, NetApp SANs, DPM, clustering a plus. E-mail me for more info - jeremy.phillips@azaleos.com

One of Microsoft & VMware’s top partners in the northeast

CEO previous experience in founding & growing network-centric professional services company to over $300mm in sales and successful IPO.

VC backer have consistently been named in Forbes Magazine’s annual list of successful Venture Capitalists.

The company has a solid salary plus bonus.  They offer equity and they have good benefits.  They’re looking for a Systems Center Anchor right now to do some ‘heavy lifting’ over the next few months—high level architecture & design, and then pass off to others for implementation.  Once that happens, they would be a more local resource to help win and architect these deals.  So, early on, about 50% travel for the first 3+ months (Phila to Boston), then less travel.

This company has an exciting story to tell and they have a growing list of solid clients.  Please forward my information on to your colleagues who may be qualified.  This is a full time permanent position.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim McCluskey

Senior Account Executive

Delta Consulting, Inc.

p 443.262.9992

f 443.582.0077

e tim@deltacon.com

w deltacon.com

www.linkedin.com/in/timmccluskey

Recruiting the Change Agents for Today's Business

 

System Center Configuration Manager

Extend AD Schema Fails with Error Code 8206

by Mohammad Asem Alhourani - 12/17/2008

At a customer’s site while testing an upgrade procedure from SMS 2003 to ConfigMgr 2007, I’ve faced a problem in extending the Active Directory Schema.

SMS 2003

Remote Security Patch Compliance Checker

by Pierson Glyn-Williams - 12/17/2008

Verify Patch compliance of any remote computer by comparing WMI to your SMS database using this script to generate a XLS Report for your tech's.

System Center Operations Manager

Operations Manager 2007 Powershell: Close all open alerts generated by rules

by Scott Moss - 12/17/2008

By request I came up with the following PowerShell one liner to close all open alerts that were generated by a Rule. Reason being that if one closes an alert generated by a monitor, that alert will not be fired off again until the computers health is recalculated. To find alerts that are generated b

Scripting

VBS Script To Send Site Server Populated Inbox File Counts To Excel

by Don Hite - 12/17/2008

This VBS script is an updated version of previous scripts I wrote to count files in a specified Site Servers inboxes. The original script was written to allow me to monitor the Incoming and DDM inboxes and alert me to other inboxes where a backlog of files were building up.

Windows PowerShell

Operations Manager 2007 Powershell: Close all open alerts generated by rules

by Scott Moss - 12/17/2008

By request I came up with the following PowerShell one liner to close all open alerts that were generated by a Rule. Reason being that if one closes an alert generated by a monitor, that alert will not be fired off again until the computers health is recalculated. To find alerts that are generated b

Patch Management

Remote Security Patch Compliance Checker

by Pierson Glyn-Williams - 12/17/2008

Verify Patch compliance of any remote computer by comparing WMI to your SMS database using this script to generate a XLS Report for your tech's.

Security

Security Audit Events for Windows 2008 and Windows Vista

by lynn lunik - 12/17/2008

I field numerous questions from Clients regarding Security Audit Event values when configuring Security Settings and SC Operations Manager 2007 Monitors and Rules. Finally, a single Worksheet has been generated by Microsoft.

Windows

Security Audit Events for Windows 2008 and Windows Vista

by lynn lunik - 12/17/2008

I field numerous questions from Clients regarding Security Audit Event values when configuring Security Settings and SC Operations Manager 2007 Monitors and Rules. Finally, a single Worksheet has been generated by Microsoft.

SQL Server

Asset Intelligence Asset Intelligence Reports SQL Query

by Don Hite - 12/17/2008

Provided here is a SQL query version of the Asset Intelligence asset intelligence reports report.

myITforum Daily Newsletter

 

System Center Mobile Device Manager 2008 Service Pack 1 Management Pack for Operations Manager 2007

Microsoft System Center Mobile Device Manager Service Pack 1 2008 Management Pack for Operations Manager 2007 provides proactive monitoring of your Microsoft System Center Mobile Device Manager 2008 SP1...

SMS Installer with Installer Step-up Utility

With Microsoft® Systems Management Server, organizations can reduce administrative overhead by automating distribution and installation of any 16-bit or 32-bit application or operating system. Many software...

System Center Configuration Manager Finding seldom used computers in your company by Sherry Kissinger - 12/16/2008 Todd Miller shared a neat MOF snippet. He had a need to find seldom-used computers in the organization so they could be repurposed. SMS 2003 Remote Security Patch Compliance Checker by Pierson Glyn-Williams - 12/16/2008 Verify Patch compliance of any remote computer by comparing WMI to your SMS database using this script to generate a XLS Report for your tech's. Scripting Start a Service via ADSI by Shaun Cassells - 12/16/2008 I recently ran into the problem of WMI being stopped on workstations. As such I needed to find an easy way to start the service on the box locally without using WMI. Patch Management Remote Security Patch Compliance Checker by Pierson Glyn-Williams - 12/16/2008 Verify Patch compliance of any remote computer by comparing WMI to your SMS database using this script to generate a XLS Report for your tech's. SQL Server SQL Query To Retrieve The Column Names For All Tables In A Specified Database by Don Hite - 12/16/2008 This SQL Query will allow you to view the column names for all of the tables in a specified database sorted by their Ordinal position. Web Technologies What’s retweeting and how do you do it in OutTwit? by John Gormly - 12/16/2008 Retweeting allows you to acknowledge someone else’s post within Twitter, and help spread the word to other followers utilizing Twitter.