Job Description Summary

Organization's Summary Statement:
Since 1956, the Laboratory for Physical Sciences (LPS), in partnership with the University of Maryland, has been advancing the physics and engineering behind information science and technology. LPS is a unique organization with a model of basic and applied research that focuses on government engagement with academia and industry.

The Laboratory for Physical Sciences (LPS) is seeking an experienced Senior Systems Administrator to lead systems infrastructure engineering in support of enterprise IT and laboratory operations across our multi-site research organization.

In this role, you will drive the implementation of a new core IT architecture while ensuring the reliability and security of existing systems. This is a senior-level position where you will contribute to strategic IT planning, mentor junior administrators, and troubleshoot complex technical issues in a dynamic research environment.

The A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland serves as the catalyst for high-quality research, innovation, and learning, preparing our students to create innovations that will address the 21st-century Grand Challenges (e.g., energy, environment, security, and human health) and improve the human condition. The Clark School is dedicated to leading and transforming the engineering discipline and profession, to accelerating entrepreneurship, and to transforming research and learning activities into new innovations that benefit millions.

Minimum Qualification:
Bachelor's Degree or five years of professional work experience in Information Technology.
Proven experience managing Windows Server environments as part of a team in a mid-to-large-sized enterprise.'
Demonstrated ability to plan and design enterprise IT infrastructure. Effective troubleshooting skills to diagnose and resolve issues across servers and applications

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
* Oversee the design and implementation of a new Windows-based architecture, including Active Directory, Group Policy, File and Storage Services, Remote Desktop Services, DNS, DHCP, and Exchange Server.
* Maintain resilient systems by setting configuration baselines, automating monitoring and patching, and ensuring backup operations.
* Support a wide range of laboratory IT systems, coordinating with researchers as needed to provision resources and assist with system configurations.
* Diagnose and resolve service disruptions across multiple platforms and services. Serve as an escalation point for critical issues, ensuring minimal downtime and effective root-cause analysis.
* Set high standards for work quality and foster a collaborative team culture. Serve as a technical lead, sharing knowledge and ensuring adherence to best practices.
* Collaborate with LPS management on long-term planning and architecture decisions. Provide input on technology roadmaps, infrastructure investments, and strategies for transitioning legacy systems to modern platforms.

PREFERENCES
* Deep knowledge of Active Directory, Group Policy, and core services like DNS and DHCP.
* Experience managing Microsoft Exchange Server.
* A systematic, thoughtful approach to problem-solving and operations. Strong teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with staff, researchers, and organizational leadership.
* Experience leading teams or projects. Willingness to mentor junior admins, share knowledge, and enforce best practices in a collegial manner.
* Familiarity with IT security principles and practices (e.g., patch management, access controls, monitoring) to maintain a secure environment.

Physical Demands:
Sedentary work performed in a normal office environment; exerts up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Ability to attend meetings both on and off campus. Spending long hours in front of a computer screen.


Licenses/ Certifications:
N/A

Additional Job Details

Required Application Materials: Cover Letter, Resume, Reference List

 

Best Consideration Date: 09/26/2025

 

Posting Close Date: N/A

 

Open Until Filled: YES

 

Visa Requirements: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

Financial Disclosure Required

For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.

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