Senior Systems Administrator

Company Overview

At ValidaTek, we modernize and optimize IT services to solve some of the most critical challenges facing federal civilian and defense agencies. From customers to partners to top-talent employees, ValidaTek puts people first, empowering them to exceed expectations and transform government organizations. Our success starts and ends with our people, so we built a company where great people can do great things, with the resources and autonomy to make decisions that transform organizations. We operate as one team of diverse people, united by a passion for continuous growth and optimization. Our commitment to quality and performance optimization is the reason why our IT Service Projects and New Development Projects have been appraised at CMMI Maturity Level 5, positioning us as one of a handful of elite companies to receive the highest form of third-party validation. www.validatek.com

Summary

ValidaTek is seeking an experienced and proactive Senior Systems Administrator to join our Cybersecurity Systems Support (CSS) team supporting the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA). This position is responsible for overseeing the configuration, maintenance, and security of enterprise systems in a high-security, mission-critical environment. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise, a strong understanding of DoD IT policies, and the ability to lead and mentor junior team members. This is a 100% on-site role based in Pensacola, FL. 

Responsibilities

• Administer, configure, and maintain Windows and/or Linux servers and enterprise system environments, including Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, GPO, and file/print services. 

• Ensure compliance with DoD STIGs, IAVM directives, and cybersecurity best practices. 

• Implement and manage system patches, updates, and antivirus software across classified and unclassified environments. 

• Develop and maintain system documentation, including architecture diagrams, system configurations, and operational procedures. 

• Provide Tier III support for escalated system issues, coordinating with network, cybersecurity, and application teams to ensure timely resolution. 

• Manage user accounts, access controls, and permissions in accordance with DoD Identity and Access Management policies. 

• Support the implementation of RMF security controls, generate required artifacts, and assist with maintaining ATO/IATT status. 

• Utilize system monitoring tools to proactively identify performance issues, system failures, and potential vulnerabilities. 

• Assist in the development and testing of disaster recovery, continuity of operations (COOP), and system backup procedures. 

• Support integration and troubleshooting of cybersecurity tools such as HBSS, ACAS, and SIEM platforms. 

• Mentor junior administrators and provide technical leadership across system-related tasks and projects. 

Qualifications

• Active Secret clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance. 

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field OR equivalent professional experience. 

• DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification (e.g., Security+ CE, CySA+, CASP+) – required. 

• 5+ years of experience in systems administration within a DoD or large enterprise environment. 

• Extensive hands-on experience with Windows Server and/or Linux/Unix systems. 

• Proficient in managing enterprise services such as Active Directory, Group Policy, and PowerShell scripting. 

• Strong understanding of virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V). 

• Demonstrated experience with RMF, STIG compliance, and eMASS documentation. 

• Experience implementing and troubleshooting HBSS, ACAS, Nessus, and Splunk. 

• Excellent troubleshooting, documentation, and communication skills. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Microsoft Certified System Administrator (MCSA), Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), or similar certifications. 

• Experience supporting systems in classified DoD environments. 

• Familiarity with ITIL processes, change management, and configuration control. 

• Understanding of cloud-based services, virtualization, and system automation tools (e.g., Ansible, SCCM). 

Posted Min Pay Rate

USD $80,000.00/Yr.

Posted Max Pay Rate

USD $110,000.00/Yr.

Salary Disclosure

Actual salary will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, geographic location, contract affordability, internal equity, education, and certifications. The uppe