Systems Engineer 2 (TS/SCI Clearance with Full Scope Polygraph Required)

System Administrator 2

Location: Columbia, MD

Position Type: Full-Time

Security Clearance: TS/SCI with Polygraph

Salary Range: $145,000 – $172,000

Role Overview

The System Administrator 2 delivers comprehensive Linux systems administration and operational support within a mission-critical, high-availability enterprise environment. This position centers on command-line system maintenance, system health monitoring, and overseeing application, data, and messaging flows. The ideal candidate brings solid, hands-on Linux administrative expertise and the ability to independently diagnose and resolve routine to moderately complex technical issues.

Operations Coverage & Schedule

• Operational Hours: Core business-day coverage spans 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM, coordinated among team members to maintain seamless coverage.
  

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

• Shift Differential: Additional compensation is provided for dedicated on-call rotations and extended operational hours.
  

Key Responsibilities

• System Administration: Execute routine and advanced Linux OS administration, configuration, maintenance, and patching using command-line interfaces.
  

• Pipeline & Messaging Management: Oversee, monitor, and maintain application, data, and messaging pipeline performance to support mission continuity.
  

• Troubleshooting & Remediation: Independently isolate, troubleshoot, and resolve infrastructure and operating system defects, bottlenecks, and anomalies.
  

• Operational Readiness: Ensure mission system uptime, adhere to standard operational procedures, and respond swiftly to automated system alerts.
  

• Collaboration & Handoffs: Maintain clear operational documentation, update tracking systems, and coordinate closely with team members during operational handoffs.
  

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 hands-on Linux systems administration experience.
  

• Technical Skills: Solid command-line proficiency across Linux environments, system utilities, and shell navigation.
  

Benefits & Compensation

• Base Salary: $145,000 – $172,000, determined by experience, technical expertise, and contract alignment.
  

• Premium Pay: Dedicated differential pay structure for scheduled on-call duty and extended shift coverage.
  

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

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

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

• Insurance Coverage: Company-provided basic life insurance and short/long-term disability coverage.
  

• Professional Growth: Tuition reimbursement programs to support continuing education and certifications.