Application Packaging Specialist

Column Technical Services is seeking an experienced Application Packaging Specialist with extensive deployment experience to join a global leader in power and energy consulting where innovation, integrity, diversity, and quality converge. This position offers a hybrid schedule: applicants must reside in the Chicagoland area and be available to work onsite at the downtown Chicago office three days per week, with the remaining two days remote from home.
Please note, this position does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization in the United States. 
As an Application Packaging Specialist, you'll play a key role in streamlining and automating software deployment processes within a Windows environment. Leveraging tools like PowerShell App Deployment Toolkit (PSADT), SCCM/MECM, and Intune, you'll help ensure efficient, scalable, and reliable application delivery across the enterprise.
Core Responsibilities
Application Packaging & Automation

• Package and automate installation workflows for enterprise applications using PSADT and other packaging tools (e.g., Flexera AdminStudio, InstallShield).
• Build customized software packages tailored to specific business requirements.
• Ensure applications and plug-ins can be deployed silently and unattended to Windows workstations, with progress tracking included.

• Prepare, test, and roll out application packages using SCCM/MECM or similar deployment platforms.
• Coordinate phased deployments across testing, pilot, and production environments.
• Monitor and manage the Software Center, resolving deployment issues as needed.
• Implement updates across production and non-production systems in collaboration with development, QA, and support teams.
• Serve as a release gatekeeper, ensuring compliance with established deployment protocols.

• Diagnose and resolve issues related to Configuration Manager, including content distribution and client-side errors
• Provide hands-on support for application deployments and associated infrastructure
• Review and interpret installation logs to identify and resolve errors
• Process Optimization & Documentation
• Recommend enhancements to deployment processes and mentor new team members on release and change management practices
• Maintain detailed documentation of deployment workflows, SOPs, and best practices
• Cross-Team Collaboration
• Partner with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth software delivery with minimal disruption
• Engage with stakeholders to gather system requirements and ensure successful implementation
• Participate in technical discussions and contribute to releasing planning initiatives

Required Skills and Experience

• Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on experience in application packaging
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related discipline-or equivalent practical experience
• Solid background in SCCM/MECM and enterprise-level software deployment strategies
• Advanced proficiency in PowerShell scripting, particularly with PSADT
• Demonstrated success in building and deploying software packages across diverse environments
• Strong grasp of software development lifecycles and best practices
• Exceptional analytical and diagnostic skills for resolving technical issues
• Effective communicator and team collaborator, with a proactive approach to problem-solving
• Self-starter with excellent time management and organizational abilities
• Experience working with MSI-based installations and Windows Installer technologies
• Working knowledge of User Account Control (UAC) and its impact on software deployment

• Exposure to alternative packaging platforms such as Flexera AdminStudio or InstallShield
• Experience with WIX, INNO Setup, or ClickOnce deployment frameworks
• Understanding of cloud infrastructure, particularly AWS or Azure
• Familiarity with Microsoft Intune and modern endpoint management solutions