Senior Systems Administrator/Helpdesk Engineer

Leidos

. Lead system administration for Linux and Windows-based systems in secure, mission-critical environments .

Posted 9/18/2026full-timeGaithersburg • Arizona • United StatesSenior💰 $92,300 - $166,850 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in system administration for Linux and Windows environments, with a strong focus on security compliance, automation, and virtualization. Proven ability to manage complex infrastructure, troubleshoot issues, and support mission-critical operations in classified settings.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Linux System AdministrationWindows Server AdministrationVMware VirtualizationAnsible AutomationDoD 8570 IAT Level II or III Certification

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

System HardeningOS InstallationRoot Cause AnalysisBackup and Recovery StrategiesCloud Platforms (AWS GovCloud, Azure Government)Scripting (Bash, PowerShell, Python)STIG ComplianceEnterprise NetworkingIdentity/Access ManagementStorage Concepts

Soft Skills

Customer ServiceProblem SolvingCollaborationDocumentationProject Leadership

Tools & Technologies

KVMACASGitJenkinsDocker

Certifications & Qualifications

Security+ CECASP+CISSP

Industry Keywords

DoDICGEOINTMission-Critical EnvironmentsOperational Readiness

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

AnsibleAWSAzureCloudCyber SecurityDNSDockerJenkinsLinuxPythonVMware

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead system administration for Linux and Windows-based systems in secure, mission-critical environments
Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and end-user technical issues
Serve as a primary IT support contact, manage support tickets through resolution, and deliver responsive customer service
Architect and manage complex server, storage, and virtualization infrastructure using VMware and KVM
Perform OS installation, configuration, hardening, and patching in compliance with DoD STIGs and agency policies
Monitor and tune system performance, conduct root cause analysis, and resolve complex issues
Support backup/recovery strategies, disaster recovery plans, and continuity of operations
Oversee and maintain automation scripts and infrastructure as code using Ansible, PowerShell, Bash, and related tools
Maintain system documentation and configuration baselines, and support CM and RM activities
Lead and support deployment of system enhancements and modernization initiatives for the Chinook program
Collaborate with cybersecurity, network engineering, and software development teams
Participate in security audits, incident response, and operational readiness activities
Work in a fast-paced, classified environment supporting geospatial analytics, software development, and data services

Requirements

What you’ll need

Active Top Secret/SCI with the ability to successfully pass a Polygraph examination
US citizenship is required per contract
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or related discipline and 8-12 years of prior relevant experience, or Master’s with 6-10 years of prior relevant experience
DoD 8570 IAT Level II or III certification (e.g., Security+ CE, CASP+, CISSP)
Experience with cloud platforms (AWS GovCloud, Azure Government) and hybrid cloud environments
Experience with Linux (Red Hat Enterprise Linux or CentOS) and Windows Server platform system administration
Proficiency with virtualization platforms (VMware, KVM) and management tools
Experience with automation and scripting (Ansible, Bash, PowerShell, Python)
Familiarity with STIG compliance, system hardening, ACAS scans, and RMF processes
Strong understanding of enterprise networking, identity/access management, and storage concepts
Proven ability to troubleshoot, document, and lead systems-related projects independently
Experience supporting IC or DoD classified environments
Preferred: Experience supporting our customer or GEOINT missions
Preferred: Familiarity with DevOps tools and pipelines (Git, Jenkins, Docker, etc.)
Preferred: Knowledge of enterprise backup solutions, DNS, DHCP, Active Directory, and PKI