Description : Windows Server Certification Engineer

Job Summary :

Responsible for the comprehensive validation, certification, and quality assurance of server hardware and software configurations running on Microsoft Windows Server platforms, specifically targeting compatibility, performance, and security compliance.

Drive adherence to Microsoft certification standards, including the Windows Server Logo Program and Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL) requirements, by executing rigorous test plans and collaborating closely with cross-functional engineering teams.

Core Technical Responsibilities :

- Execute full life-cycle Windows Server Installation and Validation procedures for OS versions 2016, 2019, and 2022 on various server platforms (x86_64 architecture).

- Manage and perform the Windows OS Certification (HCL) process using the Microsoft Windows Hardware Lab Kit (HLK) or Hardware Certification Kit (HCK).

- Execute complex Microsoft-mandated test suites, covering system basic functionality, device-specific validation (Network Interface Cards, Storage controllers, GPUs, USB, PCIe), and extensive reliability and stress testing.

- Generate, review, and submit HLK packages (including logs and results) to Microsoft for inclusion in the official Windows Server Catalog, coordinating test case clarifications and certification approval.

- Conduct deep Testing and Quality Assurance on critical server components, including secure boot/trusted boot flow validation, storage configurations (RAID levels, NVMe, SATA, SAS), and network configurations (Ethernet, teaming/bonding, VLAN setup).

- Perform detailed Performance Benchmarking using industry-standard tools like Iometer, Crystal Disk Mark, and iperf3 to measure disk I/O throughput and network latency/bandwidth.

- Validate core Windows Server features, including Hyper-V virtualization stack, BitLocker drive encryption, NIC Teaming, and Failover Clustering configurations.

- Perform advanced Troubleshooting and Debugging, analyzing complex system failures such as installation issues, driver signing failures, firmware mismatches, and Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors.

- Analyze diagnostic logs from various sources : Windows Event Viewer, Device Manager, detailed HLK test logs, and out-of-band hardware management logs (iDRAC, iLO, IPMI, BMC).

Documentation and Process Management :

- Build comprehensive certification documentation packages ready for external submission and internal auditing.

- Maintain and update the official Windows OS Compatibility Matrix for supported hardware platforms, drivers, and firmware versions.

- Prepare detailed, technical test reports, including HLK log summaries and certification readiness documentation.

- Develop and standardize Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the Windows Server certification process and automated test execution.

Required Technical Skills and Competencies :

- Strong practical expertise in Windows Server OS (2016/2019/2022) installation, deployment, and advanced configuration.

- Demonstrated, hands-on experience with Microsoft HLK/HCK for server certification and driver signing.

- In-depth knowledge of the Windows boot process (UEFI/Legacy, Secure Boot, TPM integration) and system architecture (x86_64, PCIe).

- Expertise in configuring and troubleshooting complex storage subsystems (RAID controllers, SAS, SATA, NVMe) and network infrastructure (NIC drivers, bonding/teaming).

- Proficiency in PowerShell scripting for task automation, log analysis, and system configuration deployment.

- Familiarity with server hardware components : Motherboards, CPUs, RAM, and BIOS/UEFI configuration.

Required Soft Skills and Experience :

- Exceptional attention to detail, strong debugging, and root cause analysis capabilities.

- Excellent technical writing, documentation, and reporting abilities.

- Proven coordination and interpersonal skills to effectively interface with Microsoft technical contacts and internal Hardware/Firmware Engineering teams.

- Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

- 6-8 years of experience in a relevant technical role, preferably in server hardware validation, certification, or integration engineering.

Preferred Skills and Certifications :

- Industry certifications such as Microsoft Certified : Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate or equivalent legacy certifications (MCSA/MCSE).

- Knowledge of CompTIA Server+ or similar vendor-neutral certifications.

- Familiarity with alternative server operating systems or hypervisors (e.g., Linux, VMware ESXi).

- Working experience with bug tracking systems such as Jira or Redmine.

- Advanced knowledge of Failover Clustering and high-availability solutions in a Windows Server environment.