Senior Technical Consultant - VMware & Zerto Replication at AHEAD

We are seeking a senior-level consultant with deep expertise in VMware data center virtualization and Zerto replication. This role leads the design, migration, and operational readiness of enterprise virtualization and disaster recovery solutions, with a strong focus on workload mobility, business continuity, and resilient architectures. The ideal candidate combines hands-on technical mastery with consultative skills to guide clients from assessment through implementation and knowledge transfer. Key Responsibilities • Lead discovery, assessment, and design workshops for VMware vSphere/vCenter architectures, including cluster sizing, host resource planning, storage/network design, and operational models. • Design and implement end-to-end Zerto replication strategies (on-prem and hybrid), including protection groups, journal configuration, and recovery SLAs aligned to business objectives. • Own migration plans for VM workloads (vMotion, Cross-vCenter vMotion, and Zerto migrations) with minimal downtime and clear rollback strategies. • Establish disaster recovery runbooks and execute failover/failback testing using Zerto, documenting RPO/RTO and compliance evidence. • Harden and tune vSphere environments (DRS/HA, vSAN or external storage integrations, lifecycle management, monitoring/alerting). • Develop detailed implementation plans, high-level/low-level designs (HLD/LLD), and operational procedures; maintain accurate, accessible documentation. • Troubleshoot complex issues across hypervisor, storage, and network layers; drive root cause analysis and corrective actions. • Provide enablement and knowledge transfer to client operations teams; contribute to best practices and architecture standards. • Collaborate with project managers to build timelines and deliver on scope, budget, and quality; communicate risks and dependencies early. Required Qualifications • 5+ years of hands-on experience architecting, deploying, and operating VMware vSphere and vCenter in enterprise environments. • Expertise with VM workload migrations leveraging vMotion and Cross-vCenter vMotion; proven ability to plan and execute large-scale migrations. • Strong, practical experience implementing and operating Zerto for replication, disaster recovery, and workload mobility (failover/failback). • Proficiency in ESXi host and cluster configuration, resource management (CPU/Memory), DRS/HA, and lifecycle/patch management. • Solid understanding of storage (vSAN or array-based), networking (VDS, VLANs, LACP), and performance troubleshooting in virtualized environments. • Ability to produce HLD/LLD documentation and DR runbooks; excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. • Proven troubleshooting abilities and ownership mindset; comfortable working independently and within cross-functional teams. • Operate Zerto replication environments across enterprise workloads, ensuring optimal configuration and performance. • Proven ability to design, deploy, and operate Zerto replication solutions, including advanced configuration and operational best practices. Certifications • VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV) or higher (VCAP, VCDX a plus). • Zerto Certified Professional (ZCP) or equivalent hands-on expertise. Education • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems, or equivalent experience. Soft Skills • Strong client-facing presence with the ability to translate technical designs into business outcomes. • Clear written and verbal communication; comfortable leading workshops and executive readouts. • Analytical, detail-oriented, and proactive in risk identification and mitigation. About AHEAD • AHEAD builds platforms for digital business. We help enterprises accelerate innovation by modernizing infrastructure, optimizing operations, and elevating the customer experience. Our team combines deep technical expertise with a consultative approach to deliver solutions that drive measurable business outcomes. Diversity & Inclusion • AHEAD is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. • Why AHEAD • At AHEAD, we believe our people are our greatest asset. We foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. Joining AHEAD means you will work on cutting-edge technologies, solve complex challenges, and make a tangible impact on our clients’ success. • We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth. Our inclusive environment ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their best work. If you are passionate about technology and thrive in a dynamic, client-focused setting, AHEAD is the place for you.