Systems Administrator 1 (TS/SCI Clearance With Full Scope Polygraph Required)

System Administrator 1

Location: Columbia, MD

Position Type: Full-Time

Security Clearance: TS/SCI with Polygraph

Salary Range: $111,000 – $135,000

Role Overview

The System Administrator 1 provides hands-on Linux administration and operational support within a mission-critical enterprise environment. This role is responsible for command-line system administration, system monitoring, routine maintenance, and managing application, data, and messaging flows. The ideal candidate brings solid Linux troubleshooting experience and the ability to independently resolve routine to moderately complex technical issues.

Operations Coverage & Schedule

• Business Hours: Coordinated team coverage spanning 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM on standard business days.
  

• On-Call Rotation: 24/7 after-hours on-call support managed via a team rotation, typically serving as the primary on-call engineer once every 5–6 weeks.
  

• Shift Differential: Additional compensation is provided for scheduled on-call duty and extended operational coverage.
  

Key Responsibilities

• Linux Administration: Perform daily operating system management, maintenance, user administration, and system health checks using command-line tools.
  

• Data & Message Flows: Monitor, manage, and verify application, data, and messaging pipeline performance across core systems.
  

• Troubleshooting & Issue Resolution: Investigate, diagnose, and resolve technical hardware, software, and operational bottlenecks.
  

• System Availability: Ensure mission system uptime by adhering to operational procedures and responding promptly to system alerts and downtime incidents.
  

• Documentation & Coordination: Document system modifications, track recurring issues, and collaborate with engineering peers during handoffs and scheduled maintenance windows.
  

Required Qualifications

• Clearance: Active TS/SCI with Polygraph.
  

• Certification: Active DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level I certification (e.g., A+ CE, CCNA-Security, Network+ CE, SSCP).
  

• Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of direct Linux systems administration experience (no degree required).
  

• Technical Proficiency: Solid command-line proficiency with Linux OS environments, troubleshooting utilities, and shell navigation.
  

Benefits & Compensation

• Base Salary: $111,000 – $135,000, determined by experience, technical qualifications, and contract parameters.
  

• Premium Pay: Dedicated compensation structure for on-call shifts and extended coverage hours.
  

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  

• Retirement Planning: 401(k) plan with company matching.
  

• Time Off: Paid Time Off (PTO), standard paid holidays, and paid parental leave.
  

• Life & Disability: Employer-paid life insurance and short/long-term disability coverage.
  

• Continuing Education: Tuition reimbursement programs to support skill building and technical certifications.